Visitors can discover new habitats and exhibits, grab a bite at the newly opened dining outlets and take part in family activities throughout the zoo, making it a perfect destination during the winter breeze.
With weather forecasts predicting cooler temperatures for much of the next two weeks, UAE citizens and residents can make the most of the weather to explore Al Ain Zoo. Located in the heart of the country’s Garden City, Al Ain Zoo offers the ideal way to connect with wildlife, nature and learn about conservation while creating lasting memories.
Home to more than 4,000 animals, Al Ain Zoo is one of the oldest and largest in the Middle East, with recent upgrades and additions meaning even more to enjoy. The recently opened gorilla habitat, specifically designed and built to reflect the natural African environment, allows visitors the chance to observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat while learning about the Zoo’s conservation efforts. The hippo and crocodile exhibits have also recently reopened, joining the many different experiences on offer. Those wishing to get up close with the animals can opt to feed giraffes, meet majestic desert eagle owls or discover playful lemurs, all while learning from the passionate animal care experts who staff the zoo.
Perhaps one of the most appealing experiences in the cooler weather will be the Al Ain Safari, where a special tour guide takes guests on a 45-minute private journey through natural habitats while sharing stories of wildlife protection and care.
For those wishing to relax and enjoy a bite to eat or some refreshments in the cool winter air, the zoo’s latest upgrades include many new food and beverage options. These additions provide the perfect opportunity to recharge while staying immersed in the enchanting wildlife.
The Zoo welcomes guests daily from 9:00am until 7:00pm. General admission is AED31.50 for adults, AED10.50 for children aged 3 to 12 and free for children under 3. The Al Ain Safari, offering a 45-minute guided journey for up to six guests in a private SUV, is priced at AED1,050.
About Al Ain Zoo:
Al Ain Zoo, the largest zoo in the Middle East and operated by Miral Experiences, was founded in 1968 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. Internationally recognized for its conservation efforts, the Zoo is home to around 4,000 animals and is accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums. Al Ain Zoo is a unique educational, recreational and environmental destination thanks to its range of facilities and services that cater to individuals and institutions. Today, guests of all ages and interests enjoy discovering the wildlife in the Zoo in an atmosphere of fascination and adventure, full of diverse learning experiences.
Beyond its diverse exhibits and vast natural spaces, the Zoo is home to two significant attractions: the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, an architectural masterpiece of sustainability, and Al Ain Safari, one of the world’s largest man-made safaris.
As part of the UAE’s commitment to preserving wildlife locally and globally, the Zoo is working to develop and expand the current park with new habitats and experiences that will create a unique educational journey about wildlife conservation for its visitors.
About Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre
The Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre (SZDLC) is a world-class educational and cultural institution that embodies the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan for sustainability, conservation, and knowledge. As the UAE’s first LEED Platinum-certified building and the only centre of its kind in the region, SZDLC combines state-of-the-art architecture with immersive, interactive experiences that celebrate the country’s natural heritage.
Through a rich array of galleries, exhibitions, multimedia presentations, theatre and research resources, the Centre highlights the story of the UAE’s desert environment, its people, and their enduring relationship with nature. Trained cultural guides offer visitors unique insights into Emirati traditions and ecological wisdom, while the building itself reflects Abu Dhabi’s environment, inspired by the Arabian oryx and designed with sustainability at its core.
Home to one of the largest libraries of environmental sciences in the country, SZDLC serves as a hub for researchers, students, and the wider community, fostering awareness, education, and innovation in preserving the nation’s natural treasures.
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