Looking for a fun-filled family day out? Emirates Park Zoo in Abu Dhabi is a must-visit destination that brings you face-to-face with over 1,700 animals from around the globe.
From lion encounters to giraffe feedings, this zoo offers a thrilling and educational experience for all ages.
Whether you’re an animal lover, a curious traveler, or planning a trip with kids, Emirates Park Zoo promises unforgettable moments. Additionally, it’s not far from Dubai, making it a great weekend getaway for those staying in the city.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know before visiting this wildlife wonderland.
🗺️ Getting Around the Zoo: Your Complete Map & Navigation Tips
Navigating Emirates Park Zoo is easy and fun! The layout is designed for smooth exploration, and there are multiple ways to get around:
🚶♂️ Walking
Perfect for families and those who enjoy exploring at their own pace. Wear comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking a lot!
🚂 Zoo Train
Hop on the zoo train for a relaxing ride through the park. It’s especially great if you’re short on time or energy.
🚌 Shuttle Bus
Ideal for covering large distances quickly. Great for elderly visitors or those with young children.
📌 Tip: Grab a printed map at the entrance to help plan your route efficiently.
Is Parking Available?
- Free Parking: Emirates Park Zoo offers free on-site parking.
Is the Zoo Accessible?
- Wheelchair Accessible: Emirates Park Zoo is designed for easy navigation
- Stroller Friendly: Bring your little ones along for the adventure!
💰 Ticket Options & Packages
| Package | Price | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Entry | AED 210 (~USD 57) | Access to all exhibits, animal shows, and general areas |
| Premium Experience | AED 349 (~USD 95) | Includes guided tour + priority access to animal encounters |
Looking for more adventure? Check out our guide on What Makes a Desert Safari Worth It for a unique contrast between desert and wildlife adventures.
🍽️ Dining & Snacks: What Can You Eat?
You won’t go hungry during your visit! The zoo has several dining options:
🥪 Quick Bites
- Sandwiches, wraps, fruit platters, and snacks are available at kiosks across the park.
- Perfect for quick energy boosts while exploring.
🍔 Full Meals
- Restaurants serving international dishes, including burgers, salads, hot meals, and Emirati cuisine.
- Great for lunch or dinner breaks.
🧺 Picnics Allowed!
- Designated picnic zones allow you to bring your food and relax in shaded areas.
- Ideal for budget-conscious families or those who prefer homemade meals.
👟 What Should I Wear at Emirates Park Zoo?
Comfort is key when spending the day outdoors. Here’s how to dress for success:
👞 Comfortable Shoes
- Sneakers or sport sandals with straps are ideal for long walks.
- Avoid flip-flops — they’re not practical for extended Walking.
☀️ Sun Protection
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are a must. Temperatures can rise quickly, even in shaded areas.
📸 Camera Ready!
- Don’t forget your camera! There are plenty of photo ops with animals and themed backdrops.
Planning a safari after your zoo visit? Check out these Desert Safari Dress Code Tips for perfect outfit ideas.
🕒 Best Time to Visit Emirates Park Zoo
The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Weekdays vs. Weekends:
- Weekdays: Fewer people, better photo opportunities, shorter queues.
- Weekends are Busier but more lively, with frequent animal shows and activities.
Seasonal Tip:
The winter months (October–March) are generally the most comfortable due to milder temperatures. Mild weather at Emirates Park Zoo! 
🐘 Animal Encounters You Can’t Miss
Get up close with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures with these exclusive experiences:
🦒 Giraffe Feeding
Hand-feed gentle giraffes and learn about their behavior and diet.
🦁 Lion Encounter
Meet the kings of the jungle in our lion enclosure. Discover their social structure and habitat, and gain insight into their majestic world.
Meet majestic lions and hear stories from expert handlers.
🐒 Monkey Maze
Our monkey maze is a fun and interactive exhibit where you can observe our primates swinging and playing. Discover their habitat and social structure, and gain insight into their fascinating world.
Watch playful monkeys swing through treetops in this interactive exhibit.
🐘 Elephant Interaction
Meet our majestic elephants and learn about their habitat, diet, and social structure. Gain insight into their world and discover their conservation efforts.
Touch and feed elephants while learning about conservation efforts.
🐢 Reptile House
Get up close and personal with our snakes, lizards, and turtles in our reptile house. Discover their habitat and diet, and gain insight into their scaly world.
Observe snakes, lizards, and turtles up close in a safe and controlled environment.
🦜 Bird World
Explore our aviary and meet our diverse collection of colorful birds from around the world. Discover their habitat, diet, and migration patterns, and gain insight into their feathered world.
Marvel at colorful birds and learn about migration patterns.
🦭 Sea Lion Show
Watch our sea lions perform acrobatic tricks and learn about their habitat and diet.
Catch acrobatic sea lions performing tricks and stunts.
If you love animals, you might also enjoy a visit to Quranic Park Dubai , where nature and culture come together beautifully.
👨👩👧👦 Is Emirates Park Zoo Kid-Friendly?
Absolutely! This is one of the top-rated activities to do in Abu Dhabi with kids.
- Stroller-friendly paths
- Interactive exhibits like the monkey maze and petting zoo
- Educational shows that keep children engaged
Wondering if safaris are kid-safe too? Read our guide on Are Kids Allowed in Dubai Safari?
🛠️ Additional Tips for a Smooth Visit
Water Stations Stay hydrated by refilling your water bottles throughout the zoo. With reminders, you’ll be sure to have a wild time at Emirates Park Zoo!
Wheelchair Accessible: Ramps and elevators make it easy for everyone to explore.
Lockers Available: Rent lockers near the entrance to store bags and baby gear.
First Aid Station: Located inside the park for emergencies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the zoo’s opening hours?
A: The zoo is open from 99 am to 8 pm Monday to Thursday, and 9 am to 9 pm Friday to Sunday.
Q: How much do tickets cost?
A: Tickets cost AED 50 for adults, AED 30 for children aged 3-12, and are free for children under 3.
Q: Can I buy tickets online?
A: Yes, you can buy tickets online through the Emirates Park Zoo official website or at the zoo’s entrance.
Q: Can I bring my pet into the zoo?
A: No, pets are not allowed in the zoo, except service animals.
Q: How long does it take to visit the zoo?
A: We recommend allowing at least 4-6 hours to visit the zoo, but you can stay as long as you like.
Q: Are the zoo’s exhibits wheelchair accessible?
A: Yes, the zoo is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators connecting all areas.
Q: Can I take photos in the zoo?
A: Yes, personal photography is allowed for personal use only. Commercial photography requires prior permission and a permit.
Q: What happens if it rains?
A: The zoo remains open during rain, but some outdoor exhibits may be closed for safety reasons.
Q: Can I leave the zoo and come back later?
A: Yes, you can leave the zoo and come back later the same day with a valid ticket.
🌿 Conservation & Education at Emirates Park Zoo
Emirates Park Zoo isn’t just about fun — it plays a vital role in wildlife conservation and education. They work with global organizations to protect endangered species and educate the public on sustainable practices.
This makes your visit more than just entertainment — it supports important ecological causes.
🏕️ Nearby Attractions: Make a Day of It!
If you’re coming from Dubai, consider combining your zoo visit with other nearby attractions:
Or, head back to Dubai for a desert safari later in the evening. Book your tickets now via Desert Safari Dubai Tickets.
📝 Final Thoughts: Plan Your Zoo Adventure Today!
Emirates Park Zoo is more than just a place to see animals — it’s an immersive experience filled with learning, adventure, and memorable interactions.
From feeding giraffes to watching sea lion shows, every moment is full of discovery. Whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or family, this zoo offers something for everyone.
So pack your sunscreen, lace up your walking shoes, and get ready for a wild day out in Abu Dhabi!
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