Rediscover Al Ain Zoo with over 4,000 animals

In the heart of the UAE’s ‘Garden City,’ Al Ain Zoo continues to be a place where people and wildlife come together. Home to more than 4,000 animals, the Zoo is one of the oldest and largest in the Middle East, welcoming generations of families to discover the wonders of nature, learn about conservation and create lasting memories.

Established in 1968 by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Father of the Nation, Al Ain Zoo was born out of a vision to protect the UAE’s diverse wildlife. More than 55 years later, his mission and its heritage lives on through the Zoo’s ongoing work to care for animals, safeguard endangered species and inspire future generations.

Every visit to the Zoo promises unforgettable moments, from the delight of children feeding giraffes and meeting the majestic desert eagle owl up close, to discovering the playful lemur family and listening to stories shared by our animal care experts across the Zoo. Starting November 1, 2025, guests can also look forward to the new gorilla sanctuary, along with the reopening of the hippo and crocodile exhibits. Each experience is thoughtfully crafted by dedicated teams to ensure the wellbeing of the animals, the comfort of our visitors, and to inspire a deeper awareness of the importance of protecting our natural world.

For guests in search of something truly unique, a range of extraordinary experiences awaits. At Al Ain Safari, expert conservationists guide visitors through stunning landscapes while offering insights into the care and protection of diverse species. At the heart of the Zoo is the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, an award-winning educational hub. Through interactive exhibits and immersive displays, guests of all ages are encouraged to reflect on sustainability, biodiversity and the role everyone can play in shaping a better future for the planet. Enhancing the guest experience further, the Zoo has also introduced The Heritage Show, a fascinating projection mapping light show that takes place daily at 6:30 PM, illuminating the façade of the Centre with stories that celebrate the UAE’s rich natural and cultural heritage.

Al Ain Zoo is more than just a destination; it is a sanctuary of life and learning. Each habitat is thoughtfully created to mirror natural environments, providing enrichment and care for rare and endangered animals. Behind the scenes, dedicated teams of specialists work tirelessly to support breeding programs, conservation research and international partnerships that strengthen global efforts to preserve species for generations to come.