Hands-On Wildlife at Emirates Park Zoo: Feed Giraffes, Watch Sea Lions, Try the Zoo Zip

Abu Dhabi•easy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

5 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; expect several hours of walking and standing during shows and feedings

Overview

Get face-to-tongue with giraffes, cheer for a sea lion mid-leap, and let kids test their courage on the Zoo Zip at Emirates Park Zoo. This Abu Dhabi destination blends hands-on animal encounters with family-friendly shows and practical facilities—plan early, pack sun protection, and expect a five-hour outing full of up-close wildlife moments.

Hands-On Wildlife at Emirates Park Zoo: Feed Giraffes, Watch Sea Lions, Try the Zoo Zip

Other

Wildlife

Select participants and date

Date

Thu, Oct 30

Travelers

You arrive under a sun that already presses against the gravel, palms throwing quick shadows across the parking lot. Inside Emirates Park Zoo, a long-necked silhouette dominates the first view—a giraffe leaning like an obliging neighbor to accept pellets from your hand. Children squeal as the animal’s tongue, grey and purposeful, wraps around the food; nearby, a sea lion launches itself through a loop of water, as if the pool has decided to join the day’s performance.

Adventure Photos

Hands-On Wildlife at Emirates Park Zoo: Feed Giraffes, Watch Sea Lions, Try the Zoo Zip photo 1

Adventure Tips

Book feeding sessions early

Animal feedings and encounters fill fast—reserve or confirm times on arrival and aim for morning slots to avoid heat and crowds.

Hydrate and reapply sunscreen

Carry a refillable water bottle and reapply SPF every two hours—shade is available but limited during peak sun.

Bring comfortable shoes

Paths are mostly paved or gravel; closed-toe shoes make navigating enclosures and the Zoo Zip & Climb safer and more comfortable.

Check transfer options at booking

If you need transport from central Abu Dhabi, select the transfer at checkout—details and driver info are sent a day before the visit.

Local Insights

Wildlife

Giraffes
Sea lions

History

Founded and expanded in the 2000s to serve both residents and tourists, Emirates Park Zoo has grown into a regional hub for animal encounters and education.

Conservation

The zoo runs breeding and education programs and emphasizes respectful, supervised interactions to minimize stress on animals; follow staff guidance to support welfare.