Emirates Park Zoo and Resort Abu Dhabi – Tickets, Timings & Visitor Guide
What Is Emirates Park Zoo and Resort?
Emirates Park Zoo and Resort is a family-focused wildlife park located in Al Bahia, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It combines a traditional zoo experience with interactive animal encounters, educational programs, and on-site resort accommodation.
The zoo houses hundreds of animals including big cats, primates, reptiles, birds, and farm animals. What makes it different from many regional zoos is the close-up experience: visitors can feed selected animals, attend keeper talks, and book private encounters.
If you are searching for a wildlife experience in Abu Dhabi suitable for children and families, this is one of the most practical options.
Where It Is Located
Emirates Park Zoo and Resort Abu Dhabi is located in Al Bahia, around:
- 30–35 minutes from Abu Dhabi city center
- About 45 minutes from Yas Island
- Approximately 1 hour from Dubai
It sits along the Abu Dhabi–Dubai highway, making it easily accessible by car. Most visitors prefer driving or booking a taxi, as public transport options are limited.
If you’re staying at the zoo resort itself, parking is free for guests.
Why It Is Famous
The zoo is known for:
- Interactive animal feeding sessions
- Close encounters with giraffes and elephants
- Live animal presentations
- Affordable entry compared to larger theme parks
- Resort rooms overlooking animal enclosures
Families particularly appreciate the ability to combine a zoo visit with a short stay at the attached resort.
Is It Worth Visiting?
Yes, especially for families with children under 12.
If you’re looking for a large safari-style park like those in Africa, this is not that experience. However, for a half-day educational outing with manageable walking distances and structured activities, Emirates Park Zoo tickets offer good value.
It’s also a practical option for residents in Abu Dhabi seeking a weekend activity without long travel.
Animals and Attractions
The zoo features a wide range of species:
Big Cats & Wildlife
- White tiger
- Siberian bear
- Lions
- Leopards
These animals are housed in designated enclosures with viewing areas and scheduled feeding times.
Giraffe Feeding Area
One of the most popular activities is feeding giraffes. Visitors can purchase feeding portions at designated counters. Lines can form on weekends, so visiting early helps.
Elephant Encounter
The elephant area includes scheduled meet-and-greet sessions. Check timing boards upon entry to avoid missing presentations.
Petting Zoo
Perfect for toddlers and young children. Includes goats, sheep, ponies, and small farm animals. Supervision is required.
Reptile & Bird Zones
Snakes, parrots, flamingos, and other species are displayed in separate climate-controlled areas.
Resort Stay Option
The attached Emirates Park Resort Abu Dhabi offers:
- Standard rooms
- Family suites
- Chalets facing animal enclosures
Some rooms allow you to wake up facing giraffe areas or other wildlife sections. This makes it attractive for birthday stays or short family breaks.
Room rates vary seasonally and are higher on weekends and UAE public holidays.
Ticket Price and Cost
Entry Fee (Approximate Range):
- General admission: AED 50–60 per person
- Children under 2: Usually free
- Animal feeding or encounters: Additional charges
Prices may change during promotions or holidays. Always check official updates before visiting.
If you are planning multiple Abu Dhabi attractions, compare whether combo deals or online booking discounts are available.
Timings and Best Time to Visit
Typical Opening Hours:
9:00 AM to 9:00 PM (may vary during summer or Ramadan)
Best Time to Visit
- October to April: Most comfortable weather
- Morning hours (9:00–11:30 AM): Cooler temperatures
- Weekdays: Less crowded
Summer visits are possible, but outdoor walking becomes tiring by midday.
Who Should Visit
Emirates Park Zoo is ideal for:
- Families with young children
- School groups
- UAE residents
- Visitors staying in Abu Dhabi for multiple days
- Parents looking for educational outdoor activities
It may not appeal as much to thrill-seekers or visitors expecting large-scale safari landscapes.
How to Reach
By Car
Most convenient option. Use Google Maps and search for “Emirates Park Zoo and Resort.” Parking is available on-site.
By Taxi
Available from Abu Dhabi city, Yas Island, or Dubai. Confirm approximate fare before starting the trip if coming from Dubai.
Public Transport
Limited connectivity. Bus routes exist but may require walking from the main road.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Arrive early to avoid heat and feeding queues
- Carry water bottles, especially during warmer months
- Wear comfortable walking shoes
- Check show schedules immediately after entry
- Bring sunscreen and hats for children
- Follow feeding rules strictly
Parents should monitor children closely near animal enclosures.
Rules and Guidelines
- Do not feed animals without permission
- Flash photography may be restricted
- Follow staff instructions during encounters
- Do not cross barriers
- Respect animal rest times
The zoo maintains safety protocols, but visitor cooperation is important.
Common Mistakes Visitors Make
- Arriving at midday in summer
- Missing feeding session timings
- Not booking animal encounters in advance
- Assuming it is a full-day theme park
- Ignoring hydration needs
Plan for 3–4 hours for a comfortable visit.
Nearby Attractions
If you are in the area, you may also consider:
- Yas Island attractions
- Abu Dhabi Corniche
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Combining two attractions in one day is possible if you start early.
FAQs
- How much is the ticket for Emirates Park Zoo?
General admission usually costs around AED 50–60 per person. Special encounters and feeding sessions cost extra. - What animals are in Emirates Park Zoo?
The zoo includes lions, white tigers, bears, giraffes, elephants, reptiles, birds, and farm animals in a petting section. - Is Emirates Park Zoo good for kids?
Yes, it is especially suitable for young children due to interactive feeding sessions and short walking distances. - How long does it take to visit Emirates Park Zoo?
Most visitors spend 3 to 4 hours. Families participating in multiple activities may stay longer. - Can you stay overnight at Emirates Park Zoo?
Yes, the attached resort offers rooms and chalets, some facing animal enclosures.
