While globally renowned for its striking modern architecture, luxurious lifestyle, and dramatic desert landscapes, Abu Dhabi also offers some of the most captivating zoological experiences in the Middle East – a feature of the city that may surprise many. Whether you're seeking a fun-filled family outing, a romantic afternoon escape, or an educational encounter as a wildlife enthusiast, the capital delivers. Home to a variety of well-maintained and ethically operated zoos and wildlife parks, Abu Dhabi caters to even the most discerning visitors. Read on to discover the very best the city has to offer.
Emirates Park Zoo and Resorts
A captivating wildlife sanctuary located in Al Bahia, Abu Dhabi, Emirates Park Zoo and Resorts is located just a short drive from Yas Island and is home to more than 1,500 animals across 200 species. Featuring celebrated fauna of the animal kingdom, such as the iconic African Lion and Indian Elephant, the facility is home to critically endangered animals like the rare Bengal Tiger. Moreover, the park houses a wide range of primates, such as the cheeky South African Vervet Monkey and the fluffy South American Alpaca.
A must-visit attraction for nature lovers, the zoo offers VIP experiences ranging from breakfast with both giraffes and sea lions (separately, of course), as well as dinner with either elephants or big cats. These experiences allow you to get up close and personal with some of nature’s most impressive mammals and serve as a delightfully unique selling point of the facility.
With horse and camel riding opportunities, the zoo also provides adventure activities for kids, such as zipline and climbing activities, led by experienced instructors.
Mangrove Marine National Park
While not a zoo in the strictest sense of the word, Mangrove Marine National Park is one of the city’s best-kept secrets. Set within a labyrinth of mangroves – groups of trees and shrubs that grow in water – is a plethora of water birds, the likes of which you would expect to see in the coastal waters of Africa.
One of Abu Dhabi’s most important ecological assets, the area is home to a forest of lush green trees, which houses hundreds of bird species, including the spectacular Greater Flamingo, as well as the inquisitive Western Reef Heron.
Open 24 hours a day, these mangroves are free to visit, but the best way to see them is undeniably by kayak. Family-friendly, the Anantara Eastern Mangroves Hotel offers a range of excursions which allow you to experience these elegant animals in their natural environment.
Al Wathba Wetland Reserve
Located on the southern edge of Abu Dhabi, Al Wathba Wetland Reserve takes pride of place as the first federally protected area in the emirate – a designation received in 2013.
The area was once a coastal salt flat but now consists of both natural and man-made lakes, which are home to a massive seasonal population of Greater Flamingoes, with some estimates citing as many as 4,000. The site also boasts plenty of other species, including more than 250 birds and almost 40 varieties of plants. Additionally, the reserve features two self-guided walking trails, the longest of which stands at three kilometres, as well as a camouflaged hide from where the park’s abundance of flamingoes can be observed.
Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is currently closed for upgrades, but is set to re-open shortly.
The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
Located on Al Maqta’a Street in Rabdan, the city’s premier aquarium provides visitors with a journey through the marine life of the Arabian Gulf and beyond.
The aquarium allows visitors to experience some of the ocean’s most famed residents, including sharks, stingrays and fish. Featuring a range of corals and birds, the centre allows visitors to better understand the symbiotic relationship between birds and marine life. In addition, the aquarium offers a VIP package, which includes a behind-the-scenes tour of the facility – ideal for those who want to swim even further through the river of knowledge the aquarium presents.
In addition to its primary function as a visitor centre for marine animals, the facility doubles as a wildlife rescue centre in collaboration with the Environment Agency – arguably more importantly. The aquarium is home to some permanent residents, such as Jambo the African Grey Parrot, who was illegally trafficked from his home in the rainforests of western and central Africa, and Woody the Loggerhead Turtle, who was found drifting in a fishing net discarded by local fishermen.
Umm Al Emarat Park Animal Barn
Located in Umm Al Emarat Park in downtown Abu Dhabi, the Animal Barn offers a delightful experience for children who wish to learn more about wildlife. Featuring a range of farmyard animals such as goats, ponies and camels, the facility further showcases friendly creatures such as tortoises and emus. Depending on the season, you might even be able to view some other animals, as the centre rotates its residents due to weather conditions.
Housing largely tame animals, visitors can both feed and pet the barn’s inhabitants, while younger visitors are able to take advantage of the pony rides on offer.
Abu Dhabi has rapidly established its reputation as one of the world’s most family-friendly cities. From traditional zoos offering interactive experiences like animal feeding and riding, to more nature-focused destinations such as tranquil wetland reserves, the city provides a diverse array of wildlife attractions. Whatever your preference, Abu Dhabi’s wide range of zoos ensures there is something for everyone to enjoy.
