If you are in Abu Dhabi or Dubai with children, don't miss Emirates Park Zoo. It is the first private zoo in the UAE and, best of all, a hands-on one: more than 1,700 animals live here, and you can meet many of them up close.
The animals are well cared for, the enclosures are spacious and peacocks roam freely around the grounds. The zoo is accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA).
Tickets and prices
What to see inside
Zoo areas. A mammal park, bird park, snake alley, flamingo park, giraffe park, reptile house, primate parade and "wild" walks.
Feedings. The highlight is feeding the animals yourself: giraffes, elephants, hippos and baby goats. Each feeding has its own time slots during the day; the schedule is on the zoo's website. Food for the herbivores and monkeys is sold at the entrance, and the young animals can be bottle-fed.
Shows and rides. There are sea lion shows and pony, horse and camel rides. A jeep mini safari through the hoofed-animal enclosures and VIP animal encounters cost extra.
How to get there
The zoo is in Al Bahia in the north of Abu Dhabi, on 12th Street, a long way from the centre. A taxi or car is the easiest option; city buses also run here from central Abu Dhabi.
Tips before you go
Allow half a day and try to arrive for the morning feedings: in summer it is very hot in the afternoon and the animals hide in the shade.
Animal food is sold at the entrance, but it can run out: later in the day the feedings end "until food runs out".
The zoo is certified autism-friendly (IBCCES) — the first outdoor zoo in the UAE with this certification.
Emirates Park Zoo, 12th St, Al Bahia, Abu Dhabi · 24.545765, 54.673422
