Dubai Safari Park
Dubai Safari Park, located at 5CCW+H5 – Al Warqa 5, Dubai, is a world-class wildlife destination spread over 119 hectares, home to more than 2,500 animals from across the globe. Opened on December 12, 2017 and operated by the Dubai Municipality, the park offers visitors an unforgettable experience of safari zones, interactive exhibits, and conservation-focused attractions. Entry tickets typically start around AED 50–85, depending on age and package, making it an affordable family day out. To fully explore the park, including the African, Asian, Arabian Villages, and the Safari Journey, you should plan to spend at least 4–5 hours. The best time to visit is between November and March, when the weather is cooler and animal activity is at its peak. While Dubai Safari Park is not directly connected by metro, the nearest station is Rashidiya Metro Station (Red Line), from where you can take a taxi or RTA bus. For details or inquiries, visitors can contact the park at 800 900 or use the coordinates 25°10′39″N 55°26′57.84″E for navigation.
📍 Location
Address: 5CCW+H5 – Al Warqa 5, Dubai, UAE
Situated in Al Warqa 5, off Hatta Road, with Gate 1 near Dragon Mart and Gate 2 on Sheikh Zayed Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan Street
📏 Size
Covers approximately 119 hectares (1.19 km²)
⏰ Opening Hours / Closing Days
Open daily (year‑round during winter; limited or seasonal closures in summer)
Typical hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Last ticket holders admitted by 4:00 PM; non-ticketed entry stops by 3:30 PM
🎟️ Entry Fee
Standard Day Pass:
Adults: AED 50–55
Children (3–12): AED 20–35
Children under 3: Free
Senior (60+): AED 30; Students (with valid ID): AED 35 Entrance Fee
Optional Safari Bundle/Journey add-ons range from AED 75–125+
🐘 Type of Park
Dubai Safari Park is best classified as a wildlife park and conservation center, blending elements of:
Wildlife reserve – with naturalistic enclosures for over 2,500 animals from 250+ species.
Safari experience – offering open-vehicle tours through safari landscapes where animals roam freely.
Educational and recreational park – hosting schools, families, and tourists for interactive learning and entertainment.
Botanical landscaping – featuring over 100 species of trees and plants, creating a green oasis within Dubai’s urban setting.
It is not an amusement park (there are no rides), nor is it just a zoo — it’s an immersive wildlife experience designed to balance urban leisure with nature conservation.
🌟 What Makes Dubai Safari Park Special?
Dubai Safari Park is not just another zoo — it’s one of the most ambitious wildlife projects in the Middle East, designed to recreate natural habitats and offer immersive wildlife experiences. Opened on December 12, 2017, the park replaced the old Dubai Zoo, introducing a modern, conservation-focused model that emphasizes animal welfare, sustainability, and education. What sets it apart is its combination of adventure, education, and conservation — visitors aren’t just spectators but participants in learning about endangered species, conservation efforts, and global biodiversity.
The park is divided into distinct zones like the African Village, Asian Village, Arabian Desert Safari, and the Explorer Village (Safari Journey), each designed to mirror the ecosystems of its native wildlife. Walking through Dubai Safari Park feels like traveling across continents — from the African savannas where lions and giraffes roam, to the lush landscapes of Asia housing elephants and tigers, to the local Arabian Desert experience with camels and oryx.
What’s more, Dubai Safari Park leads with a sustainability-first approach: it runs on solar energy, recycles wastewater for irrigation, and applies advanced cooling systems to ensure animal comfort in Dubai’s hot climate. This commitment makes it a pioneering destination where fun meets responsibility.
🌟 Park Highlights & Attractions
Dubai Safari Park offers visitors an unforgettable journey through diverse ecosystems, thrilling safari rides, and beautifully designed landscapes. The park is divided into several zones — African Village, Asian Village, Arabian Desert Safari, Explorer Village (Safari Journey), and the Kids Farm — each crafted to reflect its region’s authentic environment. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, nature lover, family traveler, or photography enthusiast, the park delivers a unique blend of wildlife encounters and serene green spaces.
🚶 Walking Trails
Dubai Safari Park is designed for exploration on foot, with well-maintained walking trails that wind through the different villages and animal exhibits. Strolling through these paths, visitors can observe animals in spacious, naturalistic habitats and enjoy shaded areas that make walking pleasant even in warmer months. Along the trails, you’ll find educational signboards, interactive stations, and resting spots, making it ideal for families and school groups. The walking experience lets you slow down and appreciate the animals — from watching giraffes graze to spotting lemurs leaping through the trees.
🎠 Playgrounds & Kids’ Zones
The park is exceptionally family-friendly, with several playgrounds and dedicated kids’ zones. The highlight is the Kids Farm, where children can interact with farm animals like goats, sheep, ponies, and ducks in a safe, hands-on environment. There are also shaded playgrounds equipped with slides, climbing frames, and swings, allowing little ones to burn off energy between exploring the safari zones. These areas are designed to mix fun with learning, helping children understand animal care and conservation in an engaging way.
🌳 Gardens & Green Spaces
Beyond its animal attractions, Dubai Safari Park is a green sanctuary within Dubai’s urban landscape. The park features beautifully landscaped gardens and green spaces with over 100 species of trees and plants, carefully selected to thrive in the desert climate. Palm-lined walkways, flower beds, and shaded seating areas offer visitors places to relax and enjoy nature. The integration of greenery not only enhances the visitor experience but also supports the park’s eco-friendly mission by improving air quality and reducing heat.
🌊 Lakes & Water Features
Scattered throughout Dubai Safari Park are several lakes, ponds, and water features that add to the beauty and cooling effect of the park. One of the most picturesque spots is the Flamingo Lake, where visitors can admire flocks of pink flamingos wading gracefully in the water. Other water features are home to pelicans, ducks, and various aquatic life, providing opportunities for peaceful observation and photography. These bodies of water also play an essential role in the park’s sustainability systems, helping regulate the microclimate and supporting local biodiversity.
🧰 Facilities & Amenities
🚻 Restrooms & Drinking Water
Clean, well-maintained restrooms and baby-changing rooms are conveniently located across all zones—African, Asian, Explorer, Kids Farm, and main buildings.
Drinking water stations are available free of charge throughout the park—no need to purchase bottled water inside.
Baby nursing stations are also available for added convenience Dubai Safari Park.
🅿️ Parking & Accessibility
Free parking is available for up to 3,500 vehicles across three lots (VIP, P2, P3)
The park is wheelchair-accessible, with ramps, accessible restrooms, and complimentary wheelchair rental upon request at Guest Services.
Included in all entry tickets is access to the shuttle train and park transportation system, though some premium experiences require extra fees.
🍽️ Food & Beverages
Outside food and drinks are not permitted, except for medical or baby needs.
A variety of cafés, food courts, kiosks, and trucks are spread across the park offering regional and international cuisine (Emirati, Asian, Italian, snacks, cold drinks) Headout.
Prices are paid separately, typically ranging from AED 15–30 for snacks or light meals, and AED 25–60 for main entrees—beverages like coffee or cold drinks range AED 7–20 based on visitor reviews stating they are “very high” .
🔧 Additional Services & Extras
Stroller rental available for purchase; folding required for shuttle/covered vehicles.
Lockers are not available, but small items can be temporarily stored by Guest Services at no charge .
Souvenir shops (“Zwadi” in African Village, “Soko” in main building) for gifts and mementos.
First-aid stations, prayer rooms in every main zone, and free guest Wi‑Fi Headout.
🧭 Summary of Amenities & Fees
| Facility / Service | Cost | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Restrooms, Drinking Water | Free | Available in all zones |
| Baby-changing & Nursing Rooms | Free | Across the park |
| Parking | Free | 3,500+ spaces |
| Wheelchair & Stroller Rental | Free wheelchair; stroller rented | Wheelchair at Guest Services; stroller rental fee |
| Shuttle Train & Transport | Included | With standard ticket |
| Food & Beverages | AED 15–60+ | Snack to meal options |
| Souvenir Shops | Paid items | Plush toys, apparel, gifts |
| First-aid & Prayer Rooms | Free | Across zones |
| Lockers | N/A | No lockers; reception storage available |
🦁 Activities & Things to Do
🏋️ Sports & Fitness
While Dubai Safari Park doesn’t have traditional gym or sports courts, it offers active, nature-driven exploration:
Safari Journey – A 35‑minute guided bus tour through the African and Asian villages, included with standard admission (AED 125 adult, AED 95 child).
Arabian Desert Safari Tour – A 15‑minute electric vehicle experience in desert terrain, also included in general admission.
For fitness enthusiasts, there are long walking routes between zones (total park area: 119 ha), perfect for a 4–5 hr healthy stroll.
🍉 Picnicking
Picnicking is allowed in the shaded Al Wadi (“Valley”) area — a popular green oasis with benches and lawns surrounded by peacocks, swans, and pelicans .
Note: Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted, except for infants or medical needs .
You can still enjoy a picnic-like lunch by purchasing food from on-site outlets and relaxing in Al Wadi.
🎪 Events & Festivals
Dubai Safari Park regularly hosts themed events and educational festivals, such as:
Wildlife Shows (e.g., Amazing Creatures of the World, Birds of Prey) – included with admission; held in custom amphitheaters at scheduled times.
Young Explorer Workshops – interactive sessions for kids, included in admission .
Animal Feeding & Encounters – complimentary for some scheduled sessions (e.g., birds, goats, guinea pigs), but premium encounters (giraffe feeding, close-up experiences) incur extra fees (usually AED 50–100 per encounter) .
Seasonal Festivals (e.g., Earth Day, Wildlife Conservation Week) with special live talks and extra features; these are generally free with park entry although specific add-ons may carry fees .
💡 Summary of Activity Costs
| Activity / Event | Included in Admission | Additional Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Safari Journey (35 min) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Arabian Desert Safari (15 min) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Live Wildlife Shows & Bird Presentations | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Young Explorer Workshops | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Scheduled Animal Feedings (basic) | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Premium Animal Encounters (e.g., giraffe) | ❌ No | AED 50–100 |
| Seasonal Events & Conservation Weekends | ✅ Yes | ❌ No* |
🕰️ Visitor Information
📅 Opening Hours
**Standard (October–April)**
• Open daily from 9 AM to 5 PM
• Last ticket sold at 4 PM, final entry by 4 PM.Summer (June–September)
• Closed to general public for animal welfare; however, limited exclusive packages are available — check the official website for updates.Ramadan
• Typical hours remain 9 AM–5 PM, though adjustments may occur—best to confirm via official channels.Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha
• Extended hours: 10 AM–6 PM, with evening session resumes from 6 PM–12 AM on weekends during Eid.National Days (e.g., UAE National Day)
• Standard hours apply (9 AM–5 PM); however, 50% off park entry for nationals of countries celebrating their National Day—passport required.
🎟️ Entry Fees
| Ticket Type | Price | Includes / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Adult (12+) | AED 50 | Full-day access to 6 zones, shuttle, desert safari, shows, basic workshops. |
| Standard Child (3–12) | AED 35 | Same inclusions as adult |
| Children under 3 | Free | Free entry |
| Senior Citizens (60+) | AED 0 | Free entry |
| People of Determination +2 | Free | Present valid POD card |
| Safari Bundle (Adult) | AED 125 | Includes Explorer Safari + everything in standard |
| Safari Bundle (Child) | AED 95 | Includes Explorer Safari + everything in standard |
| Annual Pass | AED 155 per person | Unlimited visits + perks |
| Behind-the-Scenes Tour | AED 1,450 (up to 10 pax) | 90-minute private guided tour |
| King of Safari | AED 2,500 (up to 10 pax) | 4-hr VIP experience, fast-track, 3 encounters |
| Other Packages (Photography, Dine with Giraffes, etc.) | AED 1,275–2,000 | Specialized experiences |
Family Package Promo: AED 150 for 2 adults + 2 children, or AED 550 annual Junior Ranger pass with perks Wikipedia+14Dubai Guide+14Dubai Safari Park+14
National Day Offer: 50% off Standard Adult ticket for eligible nationals during their official day.
📜 Rules & Regulations
No outside food or drinks, except for infants’ milk or medical needs.
Pets not allowed, except certified service animals.
Flash photography, drones, balloons, toy guns are strictly prohibited near animal areas.
Smoking or vaping only in designated zones due to animal welfare.
Appropriate attire required—knees and shoulders must be covered
No bicycles, skateboards, scooters, or rollerblades within the park premises.
Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult
Re-entry is allowed same day; coordinate with Guest Services and retain your ticket .
Health & security screening at entrance—lockers not available, but small items can be held by Guest Services.
👨👩👧 Family & Group Offers
Family Promo: AED 150 for 2 adults + 2 children — great for value-conscious families.
Junior Ranger Season Pass: AED 550 includes missions and chance to win a trip to Kenya .
Re-entry allowed on same day—ideal for groups wanting breaks or return visits.
🛻 How to Get There
🚗 By Car
Driving directions: Located in Al Warqa 5, the park is about 24 km (25 min) from Downtown via E11/D83, and 20 km (21 min) from Dubai Intl Airport via D89/D83.
Parking: The park offers three free parking lots with a combined capacity for over 3,500 vehicles.
Prime parking hours: Arrive early (by 9 AM) to secure shaded spots closest to the main entrance. Midday (11 AM–2 PM) can get busy; later in the afternoon, many visitors depart; parking becomes easier again after 3 PM.
There is no charge for parking, and the lots are guarded and well-lit.
🚌 By Public Transport
Metro + Bus combo:
Take the Red Line to Rashidiya (Centerpoint) Metro Station, about 13 km / 15–20 min drive from the park.
From there, catch RTA Bus F10 direct to Dubai Safari Park:
Weekday schedule: First bus ~ 08:25, last ~ 19:18; Friday ~ 08:27–18:47; Sat ~ 08:27–18:59; Sun ~ 09:11–19:08.
Bus fare: AED 5–8 (metro) + AED 3–5 (bus). Total ≈ AED 8–13 one-way.
Alternative: Bus 50 or N30 to Dragon Mart, then taxi (~AED 25).
🚕 By Taxi / Ride-Hailing
From Downtown: Approx. AED 55; from Dubai Marina: AED 90.
From Rashidiya Metro: Taxi fare ~ AED 35–45 for the 13 km journey.
Taxis (Careem, Uber) are metered; rates start at AED 12 pickup + AED 1.5/km.
Private group transfers (e.g., AAli Bus Rental) range AED 300–600 for sharjah/day-trip groups.
🅿️ Parking Details
Parking is 100% free with over 3,500+ spaces, including shaded areas and separate VIP zone.
Best times:
By 9 AM: Easy, shaded spots near main gate.
11 AM–2 PM: Full capacity; may require walking.
After 3 PM: Spots open up as guests leave.
| Transport Method | Time from Downtown | Cost (one-way) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| By Car | ~25 min | Fuel + free parking | 🚗 Convenient, flexible |
| Metro + Bus (F10) | ~1 hr | AED 8–13 | 💰 Cheapest; moderate walk |
| Bus + Taxi via Dragon Mart | ~1 hr + | AED 10–30 | 🚌 Good budget option |
| Taxi Direct | ~25 min | AED 55–90 | 🚀 Fastest public transport |
| Private Transfer (Van/Bus) | ~25 min | AED 300–600 trip | 👫 Best for groups |
🗺️ Nearby Attractions
1. Dubai Frame (Zabeel Park)
A 150 m‑tall architectural landmark offering panoramic views of old vs. new Dubai, with a glass-floored sky deck and museum.
Great for historical context, but lacks the live wildlife and immersive nature encounters at Dubai Safari Park.
2. Love Lake (Al Qudra)
A heart-shaped desert oasis popular for picnicking, birdwatching, cycling, and camping under the stars .
Offers stunning desert views, yet no interactive animal feeds, guided safaris, or conservation educational programs.
3. Hatta Heritage Village
A reconstructed traditional mountain village featuring mud‑stone houses, a mosque, and cultural exhibits in the Al Hajar Mountains.
Highlights UAE heritage, but Hatta is nearly a 1-hour drive from Dubai and lacks the diverse wildlife experiences found at the park.
4. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve / Qudra Lakes
A protected desert reserve with camel farms, oryx spotting, falconry sessions, dune safaris, stargazing, and quad biking .
Focused on desert ecology and adventure; it’s less family-friendly and more oriented toward adult-focused excursions.
5. Aquaventure Waterpark, Burj Khalifa & The Green Planet
Major Dubai attractions found in Downtown or Palm Jumeirah offer thrilling rides, sky views, and indoor rainforests.
High-energy and entertainment-driven, but they lack the live animal encounters and relaxed safari environment.
🦁 Why Dubai Safari Park Is a Better Option
| Feature | Dubai Safari Park | Nearby Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Live Wildlife Encounters | 2,500+ animals, safari drives, feeding sessions, habitat immersion | Limited/no live interactions (waterpark rides, heritage displays, bike trails) |
| Family-Friendly & Educational | Interactive Kids Farm, Young Explorer programs, shows | Some cultural education at Hatta; less hands-on |
| Conservation Mission | Native and exotic species conservation, solar energy, eco-focused | Very limited conservation focus (reserve aside) |
| One-Stop Wildlife Experience | Pan-continental animal zones (African, Asian, Arabian) | Attractions are spread out; lack centralized experience |
| Ease & Convenience | Located within Dubai; free parking, accessible safari shuttles | Remote (Love Lake, Hatta) or urban traffic issues (Downtown sites) |
✅ Bottom Line
Dubai Safari Park is a comprehensive wildlife destination offering far more than a desert picnic, a skyline view, or a mountain trip. It combines immersive safari experiences, hands-on education, and animal conservation under one roof—making it uniquely valuable for families, school groups, and eco-conscious travellers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, learning, or simply the joy of nature, it outshines nearby attractions in depth, engagement, and accessibility.
🌿 Visitor Tips for Dubai Safari Park
✅ 1. Best Time to Visit
Visit between November and March, when Dubai’s weather is cooler (20–28°C) and animals are more active.
Morning (9–11 AM) is ideal to avoid crowds and midday heat.
Weekdays (Sunday–Thursday) are less busy; weekends and public holidays (especially Eid, National Day) can get packed.
✅ 2. Plan Enough Time
Set aside 4–5 hours to explore the main villages, safari journeys, and shows without rushing.
If you include premium experiences like giraffe feeding or the King of Safari VIP package, plan a full day.
Check the daily schedule at the entrance for wildlife shows, feeding times, and workshops.
✅ 3. Tickets & Add-Ons
Buy tickets online in advance to skip lines and sometimes get discounts.
Consider the Safari Journey Package (AED 125 adult / AED 95 child) for the full open-vehicle safari.
Families can save with a family day pass (AED 150 for 2 adults + 2 kids) or Junior Ranger Pass for kids who want repeat visits.
✅ 4. What to Wear & Bring
Wear comfortable walking shoes — you’ll cover several kilometers on foot.
Dress in light, breathable clothing (shoulders and knees covered).
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses, especially in sunny months.
Carry a refillable water bottle — free drinking water stations are available.
Bring a small backpack for essentials; no lockers, but Guest Services can hold small items if needed.
✅ 5. Food & Drink
No outside food or drink allowed (except baby or medical needs).
Eat at park cafés and kiosks — budget AED 15–60 per meal, AED 7–20 per drink.
For a picnic vibe, buy food inside and eat in the Al Wadi green area.
✅ 6. Transportation Tips
If driving, arrive by 9 AM for the best shaded parking near the entrance.
If using public transport, combine the Rashidiya Metro (Red Line) + Bus F10, or take a taxi (~AED 55–90 from central Dubai).
For groups, private transfers (van or bus) can be cost-effective.
✅ 7. Accessibility
The park is wheelchair-friendly, with free wheelchair rental at Guest Services.
Stroller rentals available (small fee), but note they must be folded on shuttle buses.
✅ 8. Follow the Rules
Respect no-flash photography zones.
Don’t feed animals unless it’s an official feeding session.
Use designated smoking areas only.
Supervise children under 12 at all times.
✅ 9. Maximize Your Visit
Download or pick up a park map at the entrance.
Prioritize your “must-see” zones and animals.
Don’t miss special shows like Birds of Prey and Amazing Creatures of the World.
If possible, visit during special events (Earth Day, Wildlife Week) for extra programs.
✅ 10. Souvenirs & Extras
Save time for souvenir shopping at Zwadi (African Village) or Soko (Main Building) for plush toys, eco-friendly gifts, and apparel.
Ask staff about upcoming promotions or annual pass discounts at the gate.
FAQs about Dubai Safari Park
How much time do I need to explore Dubai Safari Park fully?
Plan for at least 4–5 hours to cover all major zones — African Village, Asian Village, Explorer Safari, Arabian Desert Safari, and the Kids Farm. If you want to include premium activities like animal encounters or behind-the-scenes tours, consider setting aside a full day.
What is included in the standard Dubai Safari Park ticket?
The standard ticket (AED 50 adult / AED 35 child) includes access to all safari villages, walking trails, free shuttle transport inside the park, the Arabian Desert Safari, live animal shows, and basic kids’ workshops. Premium experiences like the Explorer Safari Journey, giraffe feeding, or VIP tours require separate booking or an upgraded ticket.
Is there a dress code for Dubai Safari Park?
Yes. Visitors are expected to wear modest, comfortable clothing — shoulders and knees covered — in respect of local customs. Comfortable walking shoes, sun hats, and sunglasses are highly recommended, especially during sunny months. Avoid heels or flip-flops, as you’ll walk a lot.
Can I bring my own food and drinks to Dubai Safari Park?
No, outside food and drinks are not allowed, except for baby food or items needed for medical reasons. However, the park has several cafés, food trucks, and kiosks offering meals, snacks, and beverages at reasonable prices (AED 15–60 per meal). There’s also a dedicated picnic-style area (Al Wadi) where you can relax with food bought inside.
How do I reach Dubai Safari Park by public transport?
Take the Red Line metro to Rashidiya (Centerpoint) Station, then transfer to RTA Bus F10, which stops at Dubai Safari Park. The combined cost is around AED 8–13 one-way. Alternatively, you can take a taxi from the metro (approx. AED 35–45) or directly from central Dubai (approx. AED 55–90).
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