Al Ain Zoo

Al Ain Zoo is a large wildlife park in Falaj Hazza, about six miles (ten kilometers) west of the city center, bringing together themed areas and enclosures for desert animals, African species, and birds. The park spreads across flat terrain at the base of Jebel Hafit, with paved paths, shade canopies, and planting between zones.

The park opened in 1969 as a small animal collection and grew gradually into a regional center for species protection. New enclosures and expansions followed over the decades to enlarge the collection and improve visitor facilities.

The name recalls Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who wanted to protect regional wildlife. Families visit the enclosures often on weekends, resting in the shade of trees while children discover Arabian animal species.

A loop path connects the main areas, and a small train runs regularly for visitors who prefer not to walk. Shade zones and rest spots sit throughout the park, making breaks possible during heat.

Part of the park sits at the edge of the desert and allows safari drives in open vehicles through enclosures where giraffes, rhinos, and oryx graze. Visitors see the animals up close, without fences between path and herd.