Abu Dhabi is home to some of the Middle East’s most captivating wildlife destinations, offering unforgettable experiences for families, animal enthusiasts, and nature lovers. Whether you’re seeking close encounters with exotic animals, educational conservation programs, or thrilling adventure activities, Abu Dhabi’s zoos deliver world-class attractions that combine entertainment with learning. This guide explores the top zoos in Abu Dhabi, including ticket prices, operating hours, unique experiences, and family-friendly activities.
In this guide, you’ll find:
- Top Zoos in Abu Dhabi
- Quick Comparison: Emirates Park Zoo vs. Al Ain Zoo
- Other Notable Zoos and Wildlife Attractions in Abu Dhabi
- Visitor Information and Planning Tips
- Key Takeaways
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Top Zoos in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is home to some of the region’s most exciting zoos, each offering a mix of wildlife encounters, educational programs, and family-friendly activities. Here’s a closer look at the top zoos in the emirate, starting with Emirates Park Zoo and Resort.
1. Emirates Park Zoo and Resort
Emirates Park Zoo and Resort is one of the UAE’s most famous zoos, blending interactive wildlife encounters with resort-style amenities. Officially accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), it meets high international standards for animal care and welfare.
The zoo is home to over 1,400 animals, including mammals, birds, and reptiles, and remains open year-round. The facility combines animal experiences with dining, accommodation, and event spaces, making it a full-service wildlife destination.
Location & Nearby Attractions
It is located in 12th Street, Al Bahyah, Abu Dhabi
- Nearby:
- Old Al Bahya – 6 min
- Yas Island – 17 min
- Mandara Equestrian Club – 5 min
- Getting There
Visitors can reach the zoo via taxi, ride-sharing apps, or public buses (210, 218, 240) using a Hafilat Card. On-site parking is ample and free.
Tickets & VIP Experiences
- Standard Entry: AED 50
- Explorer Ticket: AED 120
- VIP Experiences:
- Breakfast with Giraffe – AED 2,100
- Dinner with Elephants – AED 262
- Breakfast with Parrots – AED 168 (adults) / AED 84 (kids)
Key Features and Experiences
- Animal Feeding & Encounters: Feed giraffes, elephants, koi fish, and baby goats. VIP dining experiences allow guests to dine alongside giraffes, elephants, and leopards.
- Entertainment and Shows: African Drummer Show, Birds Show, and daily entertainment programs.
- Adventure Activities: Ziplining and climbing for thrill-seekers.
Facilities and Amenities:
- Multiple on-site restaurants serving international and local cuisine
- On-site resort accommodations for extended stays
- Climate-controlled indoor halls for events, including birthday parties, school trips, and corporate functions
- Educational programs designed for all age groups
Perfect for: Families, couples, and groups looking for immersive animal encounters and event hosting.
2. Al Ain Zoo
Established in 1968 by Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Al Ain Zoo is the largest zoo in the Middle East, spanning vast grounds with over 4,000 animals across 200 species, approximately 30% of which are endangered. The zoo prioritises conservation and environmental education, partnering with international organisations like San Diego Zoo and the World Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Located near the base of Jebel Hafeet, it provides a scenic, natural setting for wildlife exploration.
Location & Accessibility
It is located in Nahyan The First St- Shiab Al Ashkhar – Zoo – Abu Dhabi
- From Abu Dhabi: ~130 km (2 hours by car)
- From Dubai: ~150 km (1.5 hours by car)
Visitors can arrive by car, taxi, or public transport.
Tickets & Operating Hours
- Timing: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily
- Ticket prices: Vary depending on experiences; family packages are recommended for full-day visits.
Core Attractions and Experiences
- Safari Experience: Guided tours featuring rhinos, zebras, and African wildlife in naturalistic habitats.
- Themed Wildlife Zones:
- Arabian Zone – Native species
- African Zone – African wildlife in realistic settings
- Asian Zone – Asian species and habitats
- Family-Friendly Activities
- Children’s Zoo – Pet and feed friendly animals like rabbits and goats
- Giraffe Feeding – Hand-feed giraffes for a memorable experience
- Bird Shows & Reptile House – Learn about exotic birds and reptiles
- Camel Riding – Enjoy traditional rides within the zoo grounds
- Educational Programs: Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre offers interactive exhibits on UAE wildlife and conservation.
- Admission Information: Ticket prices vary depending on the experiences chosen, and family packages are recommended for multi-day visits to explore all zones and activities fully.
Ideal for: Wildlife enthusiasts, families, and visitors seeking an educational and conservation-focused experience.
Quick Comparison: Emirates Park Zoo vs. Al Ain Zoo
| Feature | Emirates Park Zoo | Al Ain Zoo |
|---|---|---|
| Established | Modern facility | 1968 (Historic) |
| Animal Species | 1,400+ species | 4,000+ animals, 200 species |
| Size | Compact, resort-integrated | Largest in Middle East, vast grounds |
| Main Focus | Interactive experiences, entertainment | Conservation, education, Arabian wildlife |
| Accommodation | On-site resort available | Day visits primary |
| Dining | Multiple restaurants on-site | Food vendors and kiosks |
| Operating Hours | 365 days/year | Varies seasonally |
| Best For | Families, couples, event hosting | Wildlife enthusiasts, conservation-minded visitors |
| Unique Features | Zip-lining, adventure activities, VIP dining | Safari tours, largest collection, endangered species focus |
Other Notable Wildlife Attractions in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi offers more than just city-based zoos. For wildlife enthusiasts seeking unique experiences, the emirate is home to several remarkable attractions where you can observe animals in their natural habitats or enjoy immersive marine and desert adventures.
- Arabian Wildlife Park (Sir Bani Yas Island)
It is located in Al Dhafra Islands – Sir Baniyas Island – Abu Dhabi
Observe native Arabian wildlife in their natural habitats.
- The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
It is located in Yas Island – Abu Dhabi
Advanced marine facility featuring diverse global aquatic species.
Visitor Information and Planning Tips
Planning your visit to Abu Dhabi’s top zoos ensures you make the most of your wildlife adventure. From the best times to explore and how long to spend at each zoo, to what to bring and special experiences to book, these tips help you have a smooth, enjoyable, and memorable visit.
Best Times to Visit
Season recommendations:
- Visit during the winter months (November to March) for cooler temperatures, perfect for outdoor exploration.
- Early mornings are ideal for seeing active animals and capturing great photos.
- Weekday visits generally offer fewer crowds compared to weekends.
Duration planning:
- Emirates Park Zoo: Allow 3 – 4 hours to enjoy animal encounters, shows, and dining.
- Al Ain Zoo: Plan for a full day (6 – 8 hours) to explore all zones and participate in multiple activities.
What to Bring
- Sun protection: sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Comfortable walking shoes for extended exploration
- Camera for wildlife photography
- Water bottle to stay hydrated
- Light, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities
Booking and Special Experiences
- VIP & Premium Packages: Emirates Park Zoo offers exclusive VIP dining experiences with animals, while Al Ain Zoo provides specialized guided tours.
- Group Packages: Available for school trips and corporate events.
Accessibility Considerations
- Both zoos accommodate visitors with mobility challenges.
- Tram services are available at larger zoo grounds.
- Climate-controlled indoor facilities ensure comfort during extremely hot days.
Key Takeaways
Emirates Park Zoo is a top choice for entertainment, offering interactive animal feeding, thrilling adventure activities such as zip-lining, VIP dining experiences, and on-site resort accommodations, making it ideal for families and special occasions. For conservation-focused experiences, Al Ain Zoo stands out as the largest zoo in the Middle East, housing over 4,000 animals and emphasising endangered species protection through guided safari tours and educational programs in partnership with international conservation organisations.
Emirates Park Zoo is open 365 days a year, ensuring year-round accessibility, while Al Ain Zoo provides seasonal experiences across specialised zones dedicated to Arabian, African, and Asian wildlife. Both zoos cater to families with age-appropriate activities, including giraffe feeding, children’s zones, bird shows, and reptile exhibits, making them perfect for educational trips.
Visitors can also enjoy unique experiences such as VIP dining alongside animals at Emirates Park Zoo and professional guided safaris at Al Ain Zoo, creating memorable wildlife encounters. Beyond these, Abu Dhabi offers additional wildlife attractions, including the Arabian Wildlife Park on Sir Bani Yas Island, SeaWorld Yas Island, and The National Aquarium, for a comprehensive wildlife tourism experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Emirates Park Zoo and Resort is perfect for families, offering hands-on animal feeding, educational programs, entertaining shows, adventure activities like zip-lining, on-site dining, and resort accommodations. Its interactive experiences and year-round operation make it especially suitable for children.
Yes, Al Ain Zoo offers professional guided safari tours where visitors can observe African wildlife such as rhinos and zebras in naturalistic settings. These tours are led by trained guides, ensuring both safety and an educational experience.
Absolutely. Emirates Park Zoo offers exclusive VIP experiences, including dining alongside giraffes, elephants, and leopards, perfect for creating memorable family moments and special occasions.
Emirates Park Zoo features multiple on-site restaurants serving international and local cuisine, while Al Ain Zoo offers various food vendors and kiosks for casual dining and snacks. The zoo’s resort integration makes Emirates Park Zoo’s dining facilities more extensive.
Established in 1968 by Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Al Ain Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals across 200 species, making it the largest zoo in the Middle East. Around 30% of the species are endangered, highlighting the zoo’s strong focus on conservation.
Abu Dhabi’s zoos provide unforgettable wildlife encounters, from interactive animal experiences to conservation-focused safari tours. Whether visiting for family fun or educational exploration, these destinations promise a full day of adventure and learning.
