Emirates Park Zoo

One of the hidden gems of Abu Dhabi, The Emirates Park Zoo should be on the list of every expat, local or adventurous tourist. Emirates Park Zoo is located in Shahama about 30 minutes outside Abu Dhabi on the road to Dubai. You will only need a few hours to see all of the attractions but it’s worth the drive. Entrance to the park will cost you about 25 dirhams but make sure you bring a bit of extra cash for feed or bring your own dates just in case they run out (which they do).

Emirates Park Zoo gives you a unique chance to interact with camels, goats, giraffes, monkeys and a variety of other wildlife. Patrons are actually encouraged to feed the animals, usually leaves and dates.

The giraffes, monkeys and camels steal the show with an up close and personal interaction that you cannot get at most western zoos. You can get an up close view of a camels teeth, watch a giraffe grab a leaf with its enormous tongue or play tug of war with a monkey trying to get a date. There are also a large number or big cats including 3 of the world’s 300 Siberian White Tigers. Though small, the zoo is laid out in a way that allows you to see and interact with animals from around the world. For more information on the zoos timings visit Emirates Park Zoo

Tip: Interacting with the zoo staff is a great way to get a closer look at other animals such as the falcons or seal lions. The zoo is outdoors so plan accordingly and consider the weather. Also keep in mind that when driving to the Zoo there are a number of brown signs along the way….they interchange between Emirates Park Zoo and Kids Park Zoo.