Close Encounters in the Desert: A Day at Emirates Park Zoo
Hand-feed giraffes, laugh with sea lions, and learn what responsible wildlife encounters look like in the UAE
You step through the gate and the city’s glass-and-steel silhouette falls away; the air is quieter here, warm and slightly scented with eucalyptus and hay. Paths curve between shaded enclosures and ponds, palms cast patterned shadows, and the occasional low, lumbering rumble from an elephant enclosure makes it clear this is not a city park but a compact, living ecosystem designed for curiosity. At Emirates Park Zoo, the thrill is not the height of a summit or the rush of a river, but a more intimate kind of wild — the kind where a giraffe’s long, velvet tongue reaches for the leaves in your hand and a sea lion launches into a splash that draws delighted gasps from kids and adults alike.
Trail Wisdom
Book feeding slots early
Giraffe and elephant feeding encounters have limited capacity — reserve them online or arrive at opening to secure a spot.
Beat the heat
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the hottest hours and see animals at their most active.
Hydrate and rest
Carry a refillable water bottle and use shaded seating areas frequently to avoid overheating.
Respect distance rules
Follow staff guidance during shows and encounters; do not tap on enclosures or use flash near animals.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Try to time the giraffe feeding early for quieter queues and better photo light
- •Ask staff about smaller educational talks — they often share little-known facts about animal behaviour
Wildlife
Giraffe, Sea lion
Conservation Note
The zoo emphasizes education and responsible interactions; follow posted rules and staff guidance to minimize stress on animals and support conservation messaging.
Emirates Park Zoo serves as a family-focused wildlife park in Abu Dhabi that blends educational programming with hands-on encounters, reflecting the city’s emphasis on curated cultural and environmental experiences.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: milder temps, active animals, family outings
Challenges: occasional windy days, early-season crowds on holidays
Spring brings comfortable temperatures and lively animals—ideal for feeding sessions and walking the grounds.
summer
Best for: fewer crowds, indoor shows, short visits
Challenges: extreme heat, limited outdoor activity windows
Summer requires planning around early-morning and late-afternoon time slots; indoor exhibits and shows are better during midday.
fall
Best for: cooler weather, longer visit windows, photography
Challenges: seasonal event crowds, school excursions
Fall offers pleasant conditions for extended visits and better light for photography, but expect increased family crowds on weekends.
winter
Best for: full-day visits, outdoor interactions, comfortable walking
Challenges: weekend peaks and holiday crowds, fewer available feeding slots if very busy
Winter is the most comfortable season for long, unhurried visits—arrive early to avoid peak times and secure special encounters.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Wide-brim hatEssential
Shields sun during outdoor walks and feeding encounters.
Refillable water bottleEssential
Keeps you hydrated between water stations and helps avoid single-use plastics.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Support for gravel paths and long periods of standing during shows and talks.
Zoom-capable camera or phone lens
A 70–200mm-equivalent zoom captures animal portraits without crowding enclosures.
Common Questions
Can I feed the animals?
Yes — supervised feeding sessions are offered for giraffes and elephants; these are often ticketed separately and may require advance booking.
Are there shows and when do they run?
The zoo schedules animal shows such as the Sea Lion Show; times vary, so check the zoo’s daily schedule on arrival or online.
Is the zoo stroller and wheelchair-friendly?
Yes — pathways are mostly leveled and stroller- and wheelchair-accessible, with shaded rest areas throughout the grounds.
Can I bring outside food?
Policies vary; small snacks may be allowed but larger picnics should be confirmed with the zoo. On-site cafes and seating are available.
How long should I plan to spend at the zoo?
Most visitors spend 2–4 hours; families who join multiple encounters or try the zip-and-climb can spend a full day.
Is photography allowed?
Yes, for personal use — but avoid flash around animals and follow staff instructions during close encounters and shows.
What to Pack
Wide-brim hat for sun protection, refillable water bottle to stay hydrated, comfortable walking shoes for gravel paths, camera or phone with zoom for animal portraits.
Did You Know
Emirates Park Zoo offers supervised, hands-on feeding experiences with giraffes and elephants, giving visitors direct educational encounters with these species.
Quick Travel Tips
Arrive early to secure feeding slots; dress for sun and heat with lightweight layers; bring cash or card for on-site purchases; consider a private transfer from Dubai for a hassle-free journey.
Local Flavor
Pair a zoo visit with Emirati flavors nearby—try a casual shawarma or karak tea at local cafes to experience everyday Abu Dhabi tastes; many families combine the zoo with museum or mosque visits in a single day.
Logistics Snapshot
Know-before-you-go: plan for 2–4 hours, book feeding encounters in advance, visit early or late to avoid heat, and consider private transfer options between Dubai and Abu Dhabi for convenience.
Sustainability Note
Support animal welfare by following staff instructions during interactions, use refillable bottles to reduce plastic waste, and dispose of trash properly to protect animals and their habitats.