Emirates Park Zoo: Tickets, Animals, Timings & Visitor Guide

Introduction

Emirates Park Zoo is a popular wildlife attraction in Al Bahyah, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It combines animal viewing, feeding experiences, educational activities, restaurants, and resort accommodation in one destination.

The attraction started in 2008 as a smaller animal-feeding facility and later developed into a full public zoo. Today, visitors can see more than 1,500 animals representing over 200 species, according to current Abu Dhabi tourism information.

Families can spend several hours exploring animal areas, watching educational presentations, feeding selected animals, or booking special experiences. The site is also convenient for people staying around Yas Island because it is only a short drive away.

If you enjoy discovering family-friendly places and attractions across the UAE, this Abu Dhabi destination can be worth adding to your list.

Emirates Park Zoo Quick Facts

Detail	Information
Official Name	Emirates Park Zoo & Resort
Location	Al Bahyah, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Established	2008
Public Zoo Development	2012
Animals	More than 1,500
Species	More than 200
Current Zoo Hours	9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Standard Admission	AED 65 as checked in August 2026
Main Type	Wildlife attraction and resort
WAZA Membership	Institutional member since 2024
AZA Status	Accredited

Opening times, ticket prices, and individual experiences can change. Visitors should therefore check the latest information before travelling.

Where Is Emirates Park Zoo?

The zoo is located in Al Bahyah, Abu Dhabi.

Its position makes it accessible from several parts of the emirate. It is also around a 10 to 15-minute drive from Yas Island under normal travel conditions, making it possible to combine the attraction with other activities in that part of Abu Dhabi.

The wider property includes the animal park as well as resort and dining facilities.

History of the Zoo

The attraction traces its beginnings to 2008.

It first operated on a smaller scale as an animal-feeding facility. Historical records also show that the site was previously associated with the name Kids Park.

A major stage in its development came in 2012, when it became known as Emirates Park Zoo and expanded into a broader public wildlife attraction.

Over time, additional animal areas, educational programmes, hospitality services, and interactive experiences were introduced.

Another important milestone came in September 2023, when the attraction achieved accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

In February 2024, it also became an institutional member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

These developments show how the site grew from a small feeding attraction into a larger wildlife and leisure destination.

Animals at Emirates Park Zoo

One of the main reasons people visit is the large variety of animals.

Current tourism information describes the site as home to more than 1,500 animals from over 200 species.

Rather than offering only traditional animal viewing, the attraction also provides selected feeding and educational experiences.

Visitors may see animals such as giraffes, elephants, hippos, goats, sea lions, and different species kept across the wider park.

The exact animals visible on a particular day can vary because animal welfare, veterinary care, weather, maintenance, and operational needs may affect individual areas.

Animal Feeding Experiences

Interactive feeding is one of the better-known parts of a visit.

Activities currently promoted include:

• Giraffe feeding
• Elephant feeding
• Hippo feeding
• Baby goat feeding

These activities give visitors a closer look at selected animals under controlled conditions.

Feeding sessions may follow fixed schedules and rules. Visitors should follow staff instructions and avoid giving animals food that has not been provided or approved by the zoo.

Educational Presentations

The attraction also runs educational sessions designed to teach visitors more about animals.

One example is the sea lion educational presentation.

Such programmes can help children learn about animal behaviour, care, habitats, and conservation in a more engaging way than simply reading information boards.

The zoo also operates educational programmes for schools and organised groups.

Special Dining Experiences

Some visitors choose premium experiences that combine meals with animal encounters.

Options promoted by the attraction have included:

• Breakfast with Giraffes
• Breakfast with Sea Lions
• Breakfast with Elephants
• Dinner with Elephants
• Dinner with Big Cats

These experiences are separate from basic admission and may require advance booking.

Availability can also vary by date, season, capacity, and operational conditions.

Emirates Park Zoo Ticket Prices

As checked in August 2026, the standard admission price was AED 65.

Other ticket packages listed at that time included:

Ticket	Price
Zoo Admission	AED 65
Zoo Plus	AED 85
Zoo Explorer	AED 125
Night at the Zoo	AED 85

Prices can change, so these figures should be treated as dated information rather than permanent rates.

Some feeding sessions, dining experiences, or special activities may also cost extra.

Opening Hours

As of August 2026, the published zoo opening hours were:

9:00 AM to 8:00 PM

Visitors who want to see several animal areas and attend activities should consider arriving earlier rather than close to closing time.

Individual presentations and feeding sessions can follow their own schedules.

Is Emirates Park Zoo Good for Families?

Yes, the attraction is designed strongly around family visits.

Children can see different animals, take part in selected feeding activities, and learn through educational presentations.

Parents may also appreciate that the location offers more than animal exhibits. Dining, resort accommodation, and additional entertainment facilities are part of the wider complex.

Families with young children should still plan breaks, especially during warmer months.

Comfortable clothing, suitable footwear, and enough time to explore can make the visit easier.

Education and School Programmes

Education is an important part of the organisation’s activities.

Its programmes have included:

• School visits
• Seasonal zoo camps
• Community outreach
• Daily educational workshops
• Academic collaborations
• Animal welfare learning
• Veterinary science education
• Sustainability activities

These programmes aim to connect animal experiences with learning rather than treating the site only as an entertainment venue.

Conservation and Sustainability Work

The organisation also publishes information about environmental projects.

Examples include turning animal and farm waste into compost and using that compost in farming activities.

The site has also promoted:

• Energy-saving LED lighting
• Recycling programmes
• Recycled water use
• Tree planting
• Beach-cleaning activities
• Recycling plastic bottles and cans
• Use of recycled-plastic bottles

One unusual project involves converting elephant dung into paper as part of environmental education.

These initiatives give visitors practical examples of recycling and waste reduction.

Zoo Resort and Other Facilities

The destination operates as more than a normal animal park.

The wider complex includes accommodation and hospitality facilities.

Visitors can find services associated with:

• Emirates Park Resort
• Restaurants
• Event facilities
• Pet care services
• Veterinary services
• Entertainment areas

A butterfly attraction is also promoted as part of the wider destination.

Having accommodation beside the wildlife attraction can be useful for families who want a longer stay rather than a short daytime visit.

Accreditation

Professional accreditation is an important detail because it provides more useful context than general advertising claims.

The zoo achieved accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in September 2023.

Its accreditation is currently listed through March 2029.

It also became an institutional member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums in February 2024.

These memberships relate to professional standards and participation within the international zoological community.

Accessibility

In March 2025, Emirates Park Zoo & Resort received Certified Autism Center designation.

The certification included staff training intended to improve experiences for autistic visitors and people with sensory needs.

The attraction has also offered options such as tailored tours and adjustments that may help reduce sensory challenges.

Families needing specific accessibility support should contact the venue before visiting so they can understand the options currently available.

Best Time to Visit

There is no single perfect time for every visitor.

However, arriving earlier can give families more time to explore the animal areas, attend scheduled activities, and take breaks.

Outdoor conditions in Abu Dhabi can become very hot, particularly during warmer parts of the year.

Visitors may therefore prefer cooler parts of the day where possible.

The best time can also depend on the animal experience or presentation you want to attend.

How Long Should You Spend There?

A short visitor may spend a few hours at the attraction.

Families planning animal feeding, presentations, dining, and several areas may need longer.

It is better to plan enough time rather than trying to rush through every section.

Special dining experiences can extend the visit considerably.

Things to Know Before Visiting

A little preparation can make the day easier.

Consider these points:

• Check current opening hours before travelling.
• Confirm the latest ticket prices.
• Check feeding and presentation schedules.
• Book premium experiences early when required.
• Wear comfortable shoes.
• Follow all animal safety instructions.
• Do not feed animals without permission.
• Plan for Abu Dhabi’s weather.
• Give children enough time for breaks.

Why Is Emirates Park Zoo Popular?

The attraction stands out because it combines several experiences in one location.

Visitors are not limited to walking past animal enclosures. They may also take part in feeding sessions, watch educational presentations, attend special dining experiences, or stay at the resort.

Its location near Yas Island also makes it convenient for tourists and residents exploring Abu Dhabi.

For families, the combination of animals, education, food, and hospitality can make it a flexible day out.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Emirates Park Zoo located?

It is located in Al Bahyah, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.

How much is Emirates Park Zoo entry?

Standard admission was listed at AED 65 as of August 2026. Other ticket packages and premium activities cost more.

What time does the zoo open?

Published opening hours as of August 2026 were 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

How many animals are there?

Current Abu Dhabi tourism information reports more than 1,500 animals representing over 200 species.

Can visitors feed animals?

Yes. Selected feeding experiences include animals such as giraffes, elephants, hippos, and baby goats. Rules and availability apply.

Is the zoo suitable for children?

Yes. It offers animal viewing, feeding opportunities, presentations, and educational activities aimed at families and younger visitors.

Is there a resort at the zoo?

Yes. Emirates Park Resort forms part of the wider destination.

Is it close to Yas Island?

Yes. The attraction is roughly a 10 to 15-minute drive from Yas Island, depending on traffic and the starting point.

Final Thoughts

Emirates Park Zoo & Resort offers a mix of wildlife, education, interactive animal activities, dining, and accommodation in Abu Dhabi.

Its development from a small feeding facility in 2008 into a larger accredited attraction shows how much the destination has expanded.

For families, tourists, school groups, and people interested in animals, it provides more than a standard walk-through experience. Feeding activities, educational programmes, conservation projects, and resort facilities allow visitors to choose the type of visit that suits them.

Because ticket prices, schedules, and individual experiences may change, travellers should always check current details before planning their day.