Dubai Safari Park, UAE — A Wild Adventure into Nature and Conservation
Dubai isn’t just a city of skyscrapers and shopping malls — it’s also home to one of the Middle East’s most impressive wildlife conservation projects: Dubai Safari Park.
Located in Al Warqa 5 off Ras Al Khor Road, this 119-hectare eco-friendly sanctuary is home to over 3,000 animals representing more than 250 species from Africa, Asia, and the Arabian Peninsula. The park stands as a testament to Dubai’s evolving vision — where innovation meets sustainability and entertainment blends with education.
A Modern Safari Experience Powered by Sustainability
Unlike traditional zoos, Dubai Safari Park was designed as a next-generation wildlife destination. The park runs primarily on solar energy, reducing its environmental footprint and aligning with Dubai Municipality’s sustainable tourism goals.
Every enclosure mimics the animals’ natural habitat — from the dry savannas of Africa to the lush forests of Asia — allowing guests to witness wildlife behavior in a humane, ethical setting.
Originally opened in 2017, the park replaced the old Dubai Zoo, which had become outdated. After several phases of renovation and upgrades — including a major reopening in October 2020 and seasonal improvements in 2024 — the park now ranks among the region’s top wildlife attractions.
Exploring the Themed Villages of Dubai Safari Park
The park is divided into several immersive zones known as “villages,” each inspired by a different region of the world. Every zone offers unique encounters and photo opportunities, transforming your visit into a full-day adventure.
🦁 African Village
Step into Africa’s wilderness without leaving Dubai. Home to over 38 species, the African Village features gorillas, chimpanzees, ostriches, and African elephants. Its lush enclosures and aviary — the largest in the UAE — create an authentic safari atmosphere.
🐯 Asian Village
Inspired by the ornate architecture of Asia, this village hosts exotic animals such as the Komodo dragon, Indian elephant, and moon bears. The Asian Theatre also features cultural shows and animal presentations that educate visitors about regional wildlife diversity.
🚙 Explorer Village
If you crave adventure, the Explorer Village delivers the thrill of a true safari. Hop aboard an open-top vehicle and come face-to-face with lions, giraffes, zebras, and tigers. This zone is perfect for photography lovers and families seeking up-close experiences. It also features the park’s signature Explorer Safari Tour, a 35-minute guided expedition across mixed habitats.
🐪 Arabian Desert Safari
Dedicated to the rich ecology of the Arabian Peninsula, this zone celebrates native wildlife such as the Arabian oryx, gazelle, and Arabian wolf. Its open-air drive-through area spans over 60,000 square meters, resembling the region’s rugged desert landscapes.
🐐 Kids Farm
A paradise for children, the Kids Farm allows little explorers to interact with friendly animals — ponies, sheep, goats, and ducks. It’s an educational experience that teaches the importance of empathy and environmental awareness through hands-on learning.
🌿 Al Wadi – The Valley
After a day of exploration, unwind in Al Wadi, a serene zone filled with greenery, ponds, and waterfalls. Visitors can enjoy picnics or dine at one of the on-site restaurants, surrounded by tranquil scenery.
Highlights and New Attractions for 2025–26
Each year, Dubai Safari Park introduces new themes and experiences. The 2025–26 season is themed “Wild Rules”, focusing on inspiring curiosity among young visitors through interactive learning and live demonstrations.
New features include:
- Private guided tours for families or small groups
- Fast-track access passes to skip queues
- “Behind the Scenes” programs for animal care and conservation lovers
- Interactive feeding sessions with elephants, rhinos, and lemurs
- Live shows demonstrating the flight and hunting skills of birds of prey
These additions enhance both educational and entertainment value — making it one of Dubai’s most family-friendly destinations.
Dubai Safari Park Tickets, Timings, and Visitor Information
🎟️ Ticket Prices
- Safari Park Pass: AED 50 (Adults 13+) | AED 20 (Children 3–12)
Includes entry to all zones and a 15-minute Arabian Desert Safari. - Safari Bundle: AED 117 per person
Includes everything in the Safari Park Pass plus the 35-minute Explorer Safari Tour and priority seating for live shows.
💡 Tip: Book your tickets online in advance — particularly for the Explorer Tour, which has limited capacity.
⏰ Opening Hours
- Daily: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Hours may vary during Ramadan or special events. Check the official Dubai Safari Park website or their Instagram page (@dubaisafari) for updates.
🧭 Best Time to Visit
The best season to visit is from November to March, when temperatures are cooler. Early mornings and late afternoons offer the most active animal sightings.
Getting to Dubai Safari Park
Dubai Safari Park is conveniently located in Al Warqa 5, accessible via several transport options:
- By Metro & Bus: Take the Red Line to Centrepoint Metro Station, then board RTA Bus F10, which stops directly at the park.
- By Taxi: Taxis and ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber provide direct access to the park entrance.
- By Car: Follow Ras Al Khor Road (E44). Free parking is available on-site.
Inside the Park: Transport and Amenities
To make your visit smoother, Dubai Safari Park offers multiple transport and service options:
- Shuttle Train: Free with your ticket, connecting all six zones.
- Eco-Taxi: A solar-powered private buggy for a customized experience.
- Dining & Souvenirs: Themed restaurants and souvenir shops — Zwadi and Soko — offer food, drinks, and memorable gifts.
- Accessibility: The park is wheelchair and stroller-friendly, with dedicated facilities for people of determination.
Educational Mission and Conservation Efforts
Beyond its entertainment appeal, Dubai Safari Park plays a crucial role in wildlife rehabilitation, breeding, and conservation research. The park collaborates with international organizations to protect endangered species and promote biodiversity awareness.
Its breeding programs have led to over 300 animal births since reopening — a milestone that highlights the park’s global significance in wildlife sustainability. Educational workshops, research partnerships, and community events reinforce Dubai’s commitment to eco-tourism and conservation education.
FAQs About Dubai Safari Park
1. How much is the entry fee for Dubai Safari Park?
Tickets start at AED 50 for adults and AED 20 for children. Premium bundles and animal feeding experiences cost extra.
2. Is Dubai Safari Park open all year?
Yes, it operates year-round, though it closes briefly during summer for maintenance and seasonal upgrades.
3. How long should I plan for my visit?
Plan for at least 4–5 hours to explore all zones, enjoy shows, and relax in Al Wadi.
4. Which is better — Dubai Safari Park or Emirates Park Zoo?
Dubai Safari Park is larger, more modern, and focuses heavily on conservation and natural habitats, while Emirates Park Zoo in Abu Dhabi is smaller and ideal for quick family visits.
5. Can I bring food inside Dubai Safari Park?
Outside food and drinks are not permitted. However, multiple cafés and restaurants inside the park offer diverse dining options.
6. Does Dubai Safari Park support animal welfare?
Absolutely. The park follows international welfare standards, ensuring spacious habitats, veterinary care, and enrichment activities for all species.
Final Thoughts
Dubai Safari Park represents the future of wildlife tourism in the Middle East — a harmonious blend of education, entertainment, and environmental stewardship. Whether you’re traveling with family or exploring Dubai solo, this park offers a refreshing escape from the city’s urban rhythm — and a rare chance to witness nature at its wildest.
For more Dubai attractions, eco-tourism guides, and travel insights, explore TheDubaiWeb.com — your trusted companion for discovering the best of the UAE.
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