Arabian Wildlife Park, Abu Dhabi

Located on Sir Bani Yas Island, Arabian Wildlife Center is one of the best attractions to visit during your trip to Abu Dhabi. This zoo has the most exotic and rare species of animals living in the Arabian Peninsula, making it an idle destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Located 250 kilometres away from Abu Dhabi, the park is the biggest rehabilitation and breeding centre for wild animals and different bird species in its region.

There are more than 10,000 animals including the rare species of Giraffes, Ostriches, Oryx, etc, residing on an area of 1400 hectares of the zoo. With more than 100 animal species, the zoo will bring you closer to the rich and diverse wildlife of Arabia.

You can even interact with the animals in the zoo while feeding them. The zoo is on a mission to conserve wildlife. You will get lots of visiting facilities that are impressive, fun and quite informative.

You are also provided with the opportunity to enjoy trails, biking, drives, and mountain trekking. This wildlife life park is surely a must-visit attraction while travelling to Sir Bani Yas Island. The park promises a perfect and unique escape to couples, families, and even solo travellers.

• The park has preserved some extremely rare species like the Arabian Oryx and the Sand Gazelles from getting extinct.
• The viewing platform of the park is completely made from recycled waste materials. The platform is built so high that you can interact eye to eye with the giraffes and other animals with good height.
• The drive provides you exclusive views of some exotic free-roaming animals. The drives are organized in specially designed vehicles. You will have veteran staff and an expert along with you on the drive to guide you.
• To get closer to the animals, the visitors are provided with a special boutique.
• The island features clean waters, therefore, the visitors are allowed to enjoy fun water activities like snorkelling and swimming.
• Witness the majestic wildlife species at the different zones like Mammal Cave, Hippo House, Flamingo Park, and Giraffe Park, and experience the safari at the wildlife centre with your family.

By Car: The island is 370 km southwest of Dubai. It takes 45 min to reach Jebel Dhanna Jetty by car from Dubai. Those driving to the park from Abu Dhabi or Dubai should take the E11 highway towards Tarif and Mirfa. 

By Boat: The destination can be reached directly by boat having docks at Sir Bani Yas’s Royal Bay Moorings, or small aircraft that can land on the island’s little runway.

By Seaplane: Visitors can also fly down from Abu Dhabi and Dubai. They can take a regional jet service starting from Al Bateen Executive Airport or a seaplane flight from Dubai.

By Shared Transfers: You can also book the shared transfers option from your hotel to The attraction.

The best time when the chance of spotting animals is at its highest in the Arabian Wildlife Centre is just after the rains. The fresh rains often result in various water puddles around which animals can be seen drinking water. Additionally, you can also plan a visit here early in the morning to experience the crisp fresh air combined with serene views.

Here is the list of best places to eat near Arabian Wildlife Park

1. Casa Samak: With the breathtaking view of the Arabian Gulf, Casa Samak is a fine dining option, especially for those who prioritize a good ambiance. The freshly cooked meals including some special delicacies are loved by everyone who tries them. 

2. Gazebo: Inspired by Indian culture and cuisine, Gazebo serves the popular dishes of Lucknow, Hyderabad, and other nearby states of India. Some of the best dishes served here are Kebabs, Biryanis, and Chicken. If you are someone who loves Indian flavours then you must visit the restaurant.

3. Kamat Restaurant: One of the best restaurants in Sharjah, Kamat serves mouthwatering vegetarian delicacies. From great service and ambience to nice decor and food, the restaurant is loved by both locals and tourists. Make sure you pre-book your table as the restaurant also remains occupied.

4. Aleppo Grills: One of the best restaurants for Syrian Food, Aleppo Grills provides nice services, pleasant ambience, and well-cooked food. Located on Jamal Abdul Nasser Street in Sharjah, the Restaurant ensures hygiene and proper sanitization.

Places to Shop near Arabian Wildlife Park

1. Sharjah City Center: A massive mall located in Sharjah, Sharjah City Center serves as the best spot to shop from top international brands. From household items to fashion and electronics, one can buy anything in the mall. You can even enjoy great food and entertainment inside the mall while shopping.

2. Sahara Center: With a wide range of showrooms and shopping outlets, Sahara Center is considered one of the leading shopping stations in the city. The visitors have the best shopping experiences at the mall. The mall remains almost crowded with shopaholics.

3. Al Shaab Village: The place is popular for electronic, accessories, and clothing stores, especially for the traditional attires for women and men. The best part about this shopping place is that you can take your kids along as the place features a kid-friendly zone loaded with games and activities.

Tips for Visiting Arabian Wildlife Park

- You can visit the park on any day except Friday between 2 PM to 6 PM as it remains closed for that period. Make sure that you confirm the timings before visiting as the times may change according to the season.

- Kids below the age of 12 years can visit the park for free. 

- The show timings do not change for any visitors. Make sure that you reach on time.

- Do not feed the animals in absence of the zoo staff. It is not allowed for safety reasons.

- Visitors must reach the park 30 minutes before the actual time of their chosen slot.

- Visitors must listen to the guidelines given by the zoo instructor after and before the activity with proper attention. 

- Make sure that you carry a Photo ID as they need to be created when you enter.