Abu Dhabi is home to some incredible wildlife attractions, but Emirates Park Zoo stands out as a complete experience for families, nature lovers, and wildlife enthusiasts alike. Nestled in Al Bahyah, just a short drive from Abu Dhabi city, the zoo combines the thrill of up-close animal encounters with resort-style comfort, making it one of the UAE’s most unique wildlife destinations.
Whether you’re planning a day trip, a family outing, or an educational experience for kids, Emirates Park Zoo offers everything from giraffe and elephant feeding to interactive wildlife presentations, plus optional resort stays and dining experiences.
Where Is Emirates Park Zoo Located?
Emirates Park Zoo is situated in Al Bahyah, Abu Dhabi, easily accessible from the city center and nearby Emirates Road. The location is strategic for travelers flying into Abu Dhabi International Airport, which is just 35–40 minutes away. The zoo is also close to other popular wildlife destinations like Al Ain Zoo and Dubai Safari Park, making it a convenient stop for wildlife lovers touring the UAE.
The zoo grounds are divided into public zones and resort-exclusive areas, including a pet hotel and VIP experiences, providing a mix of natural and luxury environments.
Entry Fees & Timings
Entry Fee Table (AED):
| Ticket Type | Adult | Child (3-12) | Includes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Regular | 65 | 55 | Main zoo exhibits |
| Explorer | 95 | 75 | + Animal feeding sessions |
| Zoo Plus | 125 | 95 | + Shows/interactive experiences |
| VIP | 250+ | 200+ | Private tours/photo opportunities |
| Under 3 | Free | – | All areas |
Open 9 AM-6 PM daily (summer 8 AM-5 PM). Pre-book feeding sessions. [conversation_history]
Best Time: Oct-Apr mornings (active animals/cooler temps).
What Animals Can You See at Emirates Park Zoo?
The zoo is home to an impressive collection of wildlife from around the world:
- Giraffes – feed and photograph them at designated stations.
- Elephants – enjoy educational talks and elephant feeding.
- Hippos and Sea Lions – watch live shows and feeding presentations.
- Birds – flamingos, parrots, eagles, crowned cranes, and African spoonbills.
- Big Cats – lions and tigers in predator enclosures.
- Primates and Reptiles – monkeys, lizards, and snakes.
- Koi Fish & Aquarium Sections – for interactive fish feeding sessions.
The zoo emphasizes interactive experiences and animal enrichment, so visitors can enjoy educational moments while observing natural behaviors.
Activities and Entertainment
Emirates Park Zoo offers more than traditional zoo viewing. Key experiences include:
- Animal Feeding Sessions: Giraffe, elephant, hippo, and koi fish feeding.
- Interactive Shows: Sea lion presentations, bird flights, and wildlife talks.
- Adventure Activities: Zipline, climbing areas, and butterfly park exploration.
- Educational Programs: School trips, summer camps, and conservation workshops.
- Special Events: Birthday parties, VIP packages, and seasonal activities.
The zoo provides both fun and learning, making it ideal for families and kids seeking engaging experiences.
Accommodation and Resort Options
For those looking to extend their visit, the Emirates Park Zoo & Resort offers luxury stays, including:
- Resort Rooms: Comfortable accommodations for families.
- Pet Hotel: For visitors traveling with pets.
- Dining Options: The Hide Restaurant and Al Dar Restaurant offer casual and fine dining.
- VIP Packages: Exclusive access to private zoo areas and animal encounters.
Combining a resort stay with the zoo visit ensures a full family holiday experience, blending wildlife adventure with comfort and convenience.
Visitor Experience and Tips
- Best Time to Visit: October to April for pleasant weather. Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for animal feeding sessions.
- Facilities: The public zoo area has basic amenities. Bring water, sun protection, and snacks if staying longer.
- Photography: Sunrise and sunset provide excellent light for photos, especially with mountain backdrops and animal interactions.
- Safety: Supervise children near animal enclosures. Follow all zoo guidelines for feeding and interaction.
- Accessibility: Parking is available, and the zoo is stroller-friendly.
Nearby Attractions
Emirates Park Zoo is also a convenient base for exploring other UAE wildlife destinations:
- Al Ain Zoo – Known for safari experiences and desert wildlife.
- Dubai Safari Park – A larger wildlife park with themed zones.
- Abu Dhabi Family Attractions – Cultural and adventure destinations in Abu Dhabi city.
FAQs About Emirates Park Zoo
1. Is Emirates Park Zoo open every day?
Yes, the zoo is open daily. Check the official website for updated opening hours.
2. Can visitors feed the animals?
Yes, feeding sessions are part of the Explorer and Zoo Plus tickets, including giraffes, elephants, and koi fish.
3. Is Emirates Park Zoo suitable for kids?
Absolutely. The zoo is family-friendly with interactive shows, animal encounters, and educational programs for children.
4. Can non-resort guests access all areas of the zoo?
Public ticket holders can access main zoo areas. Resort-exclusive zones and VIP experiences require special tickets or resort bookings.
5. Are there educational programs at the zoo?
Yes, Emirates Park Zoo offers school trips, summer camps, and wildlife conservation workshops for all ages.
6. Is there a restaurant inside the zoo?
Yes, The Hide Restaurant and Al Dar Restaurant provide meals and refreshments for visitors.
7. How far is Emirates Park Zoo from Abu Dhabi city?
Approximately 35–40 minutes by car, depending on traffic.
8. Is the zoo wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the main areas are accessible, though some adventure activity zones may have limitations.
9. Can I book tickets online?
Yes, tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance. Online booking is recommended for popular dates.
10. Are pets allowed at Emirates Park Zoo?
Pets are only allowed in the dedicated pet hotel section. The main zoo area does not allow external pets.
Hi, I’m Haseeb Ahmed, the founder of KhaleejBlog.com — a premier travel platform dedicated to providing practical and up-to-date travel tips across Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar. My mission is to help travelers explore the Gulf region with ease, discover hidden gems, and make the most of every journey.
