Pygmy Zoo Ajman, UAE – A Family-Friendly Petting Zoo Experience
Ajman may be the smallest emirate in the UAE, but it continues to surprise visitors with unique attractions that rival those in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. One of its newest and most talked-about family destinations is the Pygmy Zoo Ajman — the emirate’s first dedicated petting zoo.
Tucked inside the lively waterfront community of Al Zorah Marina 1, this zoo isn’t about lions, tigers, or massive enclosures. Instead, it’s about up-close encounters, playful miniature animals, and feathered friends that land right on your shoulder for a selfie. With entry tickets costing only AED 5, the Pygmy Zoo has quickly become a favorite weekend spot for families, animal lovers, and curious travelers.
Why Pygmy Zoo Ajman is Different
Unlike traditional wildlife parks or safaris, the UAE Pygmy Zoo is built around interaction. Visitors don’t just look at the animals from behind fences; they feed them, pet them, and sometimes even ride them. It’s a hands-on introduction to nature that blends education with entertainment.
This makes it particularly popular for families with young children — a place where kids can learn empathy toward animals while enjoying pony rides, bird feeding, and cuddling puppies.
Things to Do at Pygmy Zoo Ajman
🦜 Meet the Birds Up Close
The bird enclosure is one of the highlights. From vibrant Australian macaws and giant parakeets to pheasants, ostriches, owls, vultures, eagles, and peacocks, the aviary offers an impressive variety.
Visitors can feed the birds directly from their hands, a rare experience that makes the encounter memorable. Don’t forget to snap a photo with a macaw perched on your arm — it’s a guaranteed Instagram-worthy moment.
🐶 Play with Puppies and Toy Breeds
For many UAE residents living in apartments or communities where pets aren’t allowed, spending time with dogs can feel like a luxury. At Pygmy Zoo Ajman, the dog enclosure gives visitors a chance to interact with Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Norfolk Terriers, and other toy breeds.
Children especially love the experience, while adults find it therapeutic — an animal-assisted wellness moment in the heart of Ajman.
🐐 Discover Miniature Animals
The zoo lives up to its “pygmy” name by showcasing adorable miniature versions of farm and desert animals. Expect to see:
- Miniature horses and donkeys
- Pygmy goats and dwarf cows
- Tiny turtles and hedgehogs
- The UAE’s national animal — the Arabian Oryx
Handlers are on-site to ensure safe feeding and interaction, making this not just fun but also educational. Parents often appreciate how children learn about what different animals eat and how they behave in a natural environment.
🐪 Pony and Camel Rides for Kids
Few childhood memories are as iconic in the UAE as a camel or pony ride. At the Pygmy Zoo, kids can enjoy short supervised rides on gentle ponies and camels for a small additional fee. The activity is safe, family-friendly, and always a highlight for little adventurers.
Facilities and Atmosphere
The zoo is designed as an outdoor leisure space with shaded seating, picnic-friendly areas, and plenty of space for families to relax while kids explore. Unlike large zoos, it feels intimate and welcoming — you can comfortably spend two to three hours without feeling rushed.
Location – How to Get to Pygmy Zoo Ajman
📍 Al Zorah Marina 1, Ajman
- Just a short drive from Sharjah and under 40 minutes from Dubai.
- Accessible by taxi, ride-hailing services like Careem, or private cars (ample parking available).
Timings and Entry Fee
- Monday – Thursday: 3:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Friday – Saturday: 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM
- Entry Fee: AED 5 per person (camel and pony rides charged separately)
Budget-friendly, family-focused, and centrally located — it’s one of the most affordable animal attractions in the UAE.
Why Visit Pygmy Zoo Ajman?
- Unique in Ajman: The first-ever petting zoo in the emirate
- Educational Value: Teaches kids about animal care and biodiversity
- Affordable Day Out: Cheaper than most UAE theme parks or wildlife attractions
- Interactive: Unlike traditional zoos, animals here can be touched, fed, and experienced up close
FAQ – Pygmy Zoo Ajman
Where is the UAE Pygmy Zoo located?
The Pygmy Zoo is located in Al Zorah Marina 1, Ajman, easily accessible from Sharjah and Dubai.
What is the entry fee for Pygmy Zoo Ajman?
Entry costs AED 5 per person. Pony and camel rides are priced separately.
What animals can you see at the Pygmy Zoo?
The zoo features birds (macaws, ostriches, owls, peacocks), toy dog breeds (Chihuahuas, Shih Tzus, Norfolk Terriers), and miniature animals (horses, goats, donkeys, Arabian Oryx, turtles, hedgehogs).
What is the best time to visit?
Evenings are ideal, especially during cooler months. Weekdays are less crowded, while weekends see more families.
How many zoos are there in the UAE?
The UAE is home to several zoos and wildlife experiences, including Dubai Safari Park, Emirates Park Zoo Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah Safari. Ajman’s Pygmy Zoo, however, is the emirate’s first petting zoo.
Is the Pygmy Zoo good for kids?
Yes, it’s designed with children in mind — from safe enclosures to interactive feeding and pony rides.
Final Word
The Pygmy Zoo in Ajman isn’t a massive safari or a luxury resort attraction — and that’s exactly why families love it. It’s affordable, approachable, and unforgettable, offering children a chance to connect with animals in a way screens can’t replicate.
For locals looking for a refreshing weekend plan or tourists exploring Ajman beyond its beaches and souks, this petting zoo is a delightful stop worth adding to your itinerary.
👉 For more family-friendly attractions across the UAE — from Dubai Dolphinarium to Global Village — explore our guides at TheDubaiWeb.com.
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