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Located in the eastern region of the UAE, Al Ain Zoo is one of the most famous and oldest zoos in the region. It is an excellent spot for families, nature lovers, and animal enthusiasts. The zoo is known for its wide variety of animals, spacious enclosures, and efforts towards conservation and education. Al Ain Zoo was established in 1969 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and has since become a symbol of wildlife conservation in the UAE.
Al Ain Zoo is located about 120 kilometers away from Abu Dhabi and approximately 160 kilometers from Dubai, making it easily accessible by road. If you're traveling from Abu Dhabi, you can take the E20 highway towards Al Ain. From Dubai, you would take the E66 highway. Public buses also connect Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Al Ain. Alternatively, if you're traveling by taxi or car, it takes about 1.5 to 2 hours to reach the zoo. Al Ain also has its own airport, Al Ain International Airport, which is a 30-minute drive from the zoo.
The weather in Al Ain is typically desert-like, with extremely hot summers and mild winters. During the summer months (June to September), temperatures can soar to over 40掳C (104掳F), making it important to visit the zoo during the early morning or late evening to avoid the extreme heat. Winter months (November to February) are more comfortable for a visit, with temperatures ranging from 20掳C (68掳F) to 30掳C (86掳F), offering a much more pleasant experience. Therefore, planning your visit during the cooler months is highly recommended.
The zoo is open daily, and its timings are typically from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. However, these hours may vary during the month of Ramadan or for special events, so it鈥檚 always a good idea to check the official website for any updates. The best time to visit is in the morning or late afternoon when the weather is cooler, and animals are most active.
Al Ain Zoo is famous for its large collection of wildlife, including endangered species, as well as its commitment to conservation and education. It houses over 4,000 animals, including species native to the UAE, Africa, and Asia. The zoo is also renowned for its efforts to protect and breed endangered species, such as the Arabian Oryx and the Sand Gazelle. One of the highlights of the zoo is the African Safari, which offers visitors a chance to see exotic animals like giraffes, zebras, and antelopes in an environment that simulates their natural habitat.
The entry fees for Al Ain Zoo vary depending on age and nationality. As of now, the entry fee for adults is approximately AED 30 for UAE residents and AED 50 for non-residents. Children under the age of 3 can enter for free, while those between the ages of 3 and 12 are charged a reduced fee. The zoo also offers annual passes for frequent visitors, which are a cost-effective option for families or those living in the area.
It is important to note that there are additional costs for some experiences, such as feeding giraffes or riding the train that takes you around certain parts of the zoo. There is also an option to experience the safari-style tour, which is an extra charge but provides a more immersive experience.
Al Ain Zoo was established in 1969 by the visionary leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the UAE. It started as a small project to introduce the people of Al Ain to the natural world and has grown significantly since its inception. The architecture of the zoo reflects traditional Arabic design with modern touches, incorporating elements that blend seamlessly into the surrounding desert landscape. The zoo has undergone several expansions over the years, adding new enclosures, exhibits, and educational facilities to enhance the visitor experience. The main entrance features large arches that give the zoo an imposing yet welcoming appearance, while inside, lush green spaces and carefully designed pathways create a tranquil atmosphere for both animals and visitors.
At Al Ain Zoo, there is much to see and do. Some of the highlights include:
