Sharjah Safari Park

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Sharjah Desert Park, located at 7MHW+WCJ – Al Rafea – Sharjah, opens soon at 11 AM and offers delightful picnic areas and swings, making it perfect for a family day out. Adult tickets are AED 15, children aged 12–16 pay AED 5, and kids under 12 get in free . As for Sharjah National Park, it’s a separate urban green space renowned for playgrounds, a duck pond, sports courts and picnic spots. The park explores the Arabian Desert ecosystem, showcasing species native to the Arabian Desert, which spans Sharjah and the broader UAE. To contact the park, simply call +971 6 504 7777, the official number for Sharjah Desert Park.

Name of the park

Sharjah Desert Park


Location

  • Address: Interchange #9, Al Dhaid Road (E88), 7MHW+WCJ – Al Rafea, Sharjah, UAE

  • Nearby landmarks: About 28 km east of Sharjah International Airport, within the Seih Al‑Masmout reserve


Size

A large edutainment and conservation complex, home to the Natural History Museum, Arabian Wildlife Centre, and Children’s Farm, spread across a wide desert reserve area


Opening hours & closing days

  • Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

  • Friday: 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM

  • Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:30 PM

  • Closed on Tuesdays


Entry fee

  • Adults (12+ years): AED 15

  • Children (12–16 years): AED 5

  • Children under 12 years: Free

 

Type of Park

Sharjah Desert Park is best described as a nature reserve and wildlife conservation park with elements of a natural history museum and a family-friendly educational center. It is not an urban or amusement park — instead, it focuses on:

  • Wildlife conservation: Protecting endangered species of the Arabian Peninsula

  • Environmental education: Teaching visitors about desert ecosystems, geology, and biodiversity

  • Cultural heritage: Showcasing traditional farming practices and regional flora and fauna

This unique mix makes it stand out from typical recreational parks, offering visitors an experience that is meaningful, educational, and deeply connected to the local environment.

What Makes Sharjah Desert Park Special?

Sharjah Desert Park is not just a park — it’s an immersive window into the UAE’s natural and cultural heritage. Established in 1995, the park was originally founded as a conservation and educational center, aiming to preserve the delicate ecosystems of the Arabian Desert and introduce visitors to its wonders. Over the years, it has evolved into a beloved family destination, blending education, wildlife conservation, and recreation.

The vibe here is peaceful yet exciting — you’re surrounded by the vast, golden desert landscape, but within the park, you’ll find shaded picnic spots, swings, interactive museums, and wildlife enclosures that bring the desert’s hidden life up close. Families, students, tourists, and nature enthusiasts visit to explore its three main attractions: the Natural History Museum, the Arabian Wildlife Centre (home to over 100 species native to the region), and the Children’s Farm, where kids can meet and feed domestic animals. The park’s mission is deeply rooted in environmental awareness, offering guided tours, educational exhibits, and research initiatives that highlight conservation efforts in the UAE.

Park Highlights & Attractions

🚶 Walking Trails

Sharjah Desert Park offers a well-planned walking trail system extending approximately 2.5 to 3.2 kilometers. The trails loop around key attractions such as the Arabian Wildlife Centre, the Natural History Museum, the Botanical Garden, and the Children’s Farm.

Trail features include:

  • Flat, paved paths suitable for families, strollers, and wheelchairs

  • Shaded seating areas at intervals for rest

  • Educational signboards explaining desert flora, fauna, and conservation

  • Occasional fitness stations for light exercise

  • Drinking water fountains and waste disposal bins for convenience

Visitors can comfortably walk or jog the full circuit in about 45 to 60 minutes, making it ideal for both leisurely strolls and light fitness activities.


🛝 Playgrounds & Kids’ Zones

There are two main play areas for children at the park:

  1. Outdoor Playground

    • Located near the picnic area

    • Includes swings, slides, climbing frames, seesaws, and sand pits

    • Suitable for children aged 3 to 12 years

    • Soft flooring and shaded sections for safety and comfort

  2. Indoor Activity Zone

    • Found within the visitor center or near the café

    • Offers art stations, educational games, and interactive displays

    • Designed mainly for younger kids aged 3 to 8 years

In addition, the Children’s Farm allows children of all ages to interact with domestic animals such as camels, goats, sheep, donkeys, and Arabian horses. There are supervised feeding and petting sessions, which are especially popular with families.


🌺 Gardens & Green Spaces

Sharjah Desert Park has dedicated green areas that enhance its desert charm:

  • Islamic Botanical Garden
    Features over 40 plant species mentioned in Islamic texts, with pathways, shaded benches, and small decorative water channels. It offers a peaceful, reflective atmosphere.

  • Native Plant Gardens
    Surrounding the Natural History Museum, these gardens display indigenous desert plants, shrubs, and trees, used for conservation education and local botanical studies.

  • Family Picnic Lawns
    Shaded, grassy areas with picnic tables and swings, providing a separate section for families to gather, relax, and enjoy packed meals.


💧 Lakes & Water Features

While there are no large lakes, the park includes:

  • Aflaj-style water channels
    Traditional irrigation-style water features running through the Islamic Botanical Garden

  • Decorative ponds and fountains
    Small water bodies located near the entrance and garden areas, adding a sense of tranquility

These features not only cool down the atmosphere but also attract local birds and create pleasant spots for photography and quiet breaks.


✅ Family Facilities Summary

FeatureDetails
Walking Trails2.5–3.2 km loop, shaded areas, benches, water stations
Outdoor PlaygroundFor ages 3–12, slides, swings, climbing equipment
Indoor Activity ZoneFor ages 3–8, art and learning activities
Children’s FarmAnimal feeding and petting, all ages
GardensIslamic Garden, native plant garden, picnic lawns
Water FeaturesAflaj channels, small ponds, decorative fountains
Family AreasDedicated picnic spaces with benches, shade, and swings

Facilities & Amenities

Sharjah Desert Park is thoughtfully equipped with visitor-friendly facilities that ensure comfort, convenience, and accessibility for families, solo travelers, school groups, and tourists. Below is a detailed breakdown of what’s available — including what’s free and what might incur extra charges.


🚻 Restrooms & Drinking Water

  • Restrooms
    The park offers multiple restroom blocks strategically located near major attractions such as the Arabian Wildlife Centre, Natural History Museum, Children’s Farm, and main entrance.
    Features:

    • Clean, maintained regularly throughout the day

    • Separate facilities for men and women

    • Family restrooms with baby-changing tables

    • Accessible toilets for people with disabilities
      Charges: Free for all visitors

  • Drinking Water
    Drinking water fountains are positioned along walking trails, at the picnic areas, and near restrooms.
    Features:

    • Chilled water dispensers (non-bottled)

    • Regular maintenance and hygiene checks
      Charges: Free; visitors are encouraged to bring reusable bottles


🚗 Parking & Accessibility

  • Parking
    There is a large, open-air parking lot located at the main entrance of Sharjah Desert Park.
    Features:

    • Capacity for approximately 200 vehicles

    • Dedicated spaces for buses and school groups

    • Reserved disabled parking near entrance gates
      Charges:

    • Private vehicles: Free

    • Buses/coaches (school or tour groups): AED 10 per bus

  • Accessibility
    The park is designed to be wheelchair- and stroller-friendly.
    Features:

    • Ramps at museum and wildlife centre entrances

    • Paved, level walkways throughout most sections

    • Reserved seating and rest areas for elderly and disabled visitors
      Charges: Free


🍽️ Food & Beverages

  • Cafeteria / Café
    Located near the Arabian Wildlife Centre, the park has a small cafeteria offering light meals, snacks, and beverages.
    Menu examples:

    • Sandwiches, wraps, salads (AED 15–30)

    • Hot drinks: tea, coffee, hot chocolate (AED 5–15)

    • Cold drinks: water, juice, soft drinks (AED 5–10)

    • Ice creams and packaged snacks (AED 5–15)
      Seating: Indoor and shaded outdoor tables available
      Charges: Pay-per-item; no entry meal packages

  • Picnic Areas
    Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and use the designated picnic lawns and benches.
    Features:

    • Shaded tables and grassy areas

    • Trash bins for waste disposal
      Charges: Free to use

  • Vending Machines
    Positioned near restrooms and main visitor centers, offering bottled water, juices, and snacks.
    Charges: AED 5–10 per item


✅ Summary of Charges

FacilityFree or Extra Charge
RestroomsFree
Drinking waterFree (via fountains)
Parking (cars)Free
Parking (buses)AED 10 per bus
Accessibility supportFree (ramps, accessible toilets, seating)
Picnic areasFree
Café & snacksPaid; AED 5–30 per item
Vending machinesPaid; AED 5–10 per item

Activities & Things to Do

Sharjah Desert Park offers a unique mix of educational, recreational, and cultural activities — making it far more than a simple park visit. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what visitors can enjoy, including any extra costs or free offerings.


🏃 Sports & Fitness

While Sharjah Desert Park is not a sports park, it caters to light fitness activities through:

  • Nature Walking & Jogging
    Visitors can use the 2.5–3.2 km walking trails for light jogging or brisk walking. The trail loops around major attractions, with fitness stations placed at two spots offering stretching bars, balance beams, and step platforms.
    Charges: Free

  • Cycling
    Personal bicycles are not allowed inside the park to protect wildlife and pedestrian safety. However, small push scooters for children under 10 are permitted in designated zones.
    Charges: Free (bring your own scooter; no rentals on-site)

  • Outdoor Fitness Sessions (occasionally organized)
    On select weekends, the park collaborates with wellness groups like Fitness First Sharjah or Body & Mind UAE for outdoor yoga or wellness workshops near the picnic lawns.
    Charges: AED 30–50 per session (pre-registration required, varies by organizer)


🧺 Picnicking

Sharjah Desert Park is picnic-friendly, with several designated family zones.

  • Picnic Lawns
    Multiple shaded grassy areas with benches and swings. Visitors can bring their own food, mats, and games.
    Facilities: Trash bins, nearby restrooms, drinking water fountains
    Charges: Free

  • Designated BBQ Areas
    Note: Open-flame grilling is not allowed inside the park to protect the natural environment and wildlife. Families can bring cold picnic baskets or purchase snacks from the café.

  • Children’s Farm & Family Zones
    Families often combine picnicking with visits to the Children’s Farm, where kids can feed goats, sheep, camels, and horses. Feeding packs (grains or carrots) are available at the farm kiosk.
    Charges: AED 5–10 per feeding pack


🎉 Events & Festivals

Sharjah Desert Park organizes and hosts seasonal events and educational festivals, typically centered around conservation, wildlife, and local culture.

  • Wildlife Awareness Week
    Held annually in spring, this includes animal shows, conservation talks, and interactive stations for kids.
    Charges: Included in general entry fee (no extra charge)

  • UAE National Day Celebrations
    On December 2nd, the park hosts cultural activities like falconry displays, camel parades, henna painting, and traditional Emirati music performances.
    Charges: Included in general entry fee; henna or food stalls may charge AED 10–20 per service/item

  • Educational Workshops
    Schools and groups can book hands-on workshops in botany, geology, or animal care, conducted by park staff.
    Charges: Group booking fee of AED 200–500, depending on group size and program length

  • Photography Tours
    Occasionally, local groups like Sharjah Photographers Club organize guided wildlife and nature photography tours.
    Charges: AED 50–100 per person, pre-registration required

 

Visitor Information

Here’s a detailed guide covering Opening Hours, Entry Fees, and Rules & Regulations at Sharjah Desert Park, including variations for Ramadan, Eid, national holidays, and seasonal changes.


🕰️ Opening Hours

Regular Days (Non-seasonal, Non-festival):

  • Sunday, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

  • Friday: 2:00 PM – 5:30 PM

  • Saturday: 11:00 AM – 5:30 PM

  • Tuesday: Closed for maintenance

Summer Hours (June–September):

  • Same weekday schedule, but Friday hours sometimes extend to 6:00 PM to accommodate evening visitors.

Winter Hours (October–March):

  • Same as regular, but with occasional early openings at 8:30 AM on weekends (Saturday) for nature walks.

Ramadan Hours:

  • Daily: 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

  • Friday: Closed or open briefly after afternoon prayers (confirm ahead during Ramadan)

  • Note: No food service; café remains closed during fasting hours.

Eid Al Fitr & Eid Al Adha:

  • Special opening: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM

  • Family-friendly events, henna stations, and cultural shows operate during these times.

UAE National Day (December 2):

  • Extended hours: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM

  • Extra cultural activities; busiest day of the year

Family Day:

  • The park designates Mondays as Family Day, giving preference to families, women, and children; school groups are discouraged or limited on this day.


🎟️ Entry Fees

  • Adults (12+ years): AED 15

  • Children (12–16 years): AED 5

  • Children under 12 years: Free

  • School groups (per student, booked in advance): AED 2

  • Special workshops or events (if booked separately): AED 200–500 per group

  • Photography tour (if organized by external clubs): AED 50–100 per person

On UAE National Day, Eid, or Wildlife Awareness Week, entry fees remain the same, but some onsite activities (like henna, face painting, or souvenir sales) carry extra charges (AED 10–30 per item/service).


📜 Rules & Regulations

To ensure the safety of visitors, staff, and animals, and to preserve the environment, the park enforces clear rules:

  • General Conduct:

    • Respect all animals, plants, and park facilities.

    • Do not feed animals unless in designated feeding zones.

    • Keep noise levels low, especially near wildlife enclosures.

  • Food & Beverages:

    • Allowed only in designated picnic areas.

    • Barbecues, open flames, and alcohol are strictly prohibited.

  • Pets:

    • No pets allowed inside the park to protect native wildlife.

  • Photography:

    • Personal photography is allowed (no drones).

    • Commercial photography or large equipment requires prior permission and possibly extra charges.

  • Dress Code:

    • Modest attire is recommended, in respect of local culture.

  • Children:

    • Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

  • Accessibility & Mobility:

    • Wheelchairs and strollers are allowed; the park is mostly paved and accessible.

  • During Ramadan:

    • No eating, drinking, or smoking in public areas during fasting hours.

  • Special Days (Eid, National Day):

    • Expect larger crowds; follow event-specific guidelines posted at entrances.

How to Get There

Sharjah Desert Park is located off Al Dhaid Road (E88), Interchange #9, Al Rafea, Sharjah, about 28 km east of Sharjah city center. Here’s a detailed guide on how visitors can reach it by car, public transport, and where and when to park.


🚗 By Car

Driving is the most convenient way to reach Sharjah Desert Park, especially for families and tourists coming from other emirates.

  • From Sharjah City Center:
    Take Al Dhaid Road (E88) eastbound; follow signboards for Desert Park, exit at Interchange #9. The drive takes about 35–40 minutes.

  • From Dubai:
    Via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), connect to Al Dhaid Road (E88). Journey time is 50–60 minutes, depending on traffic. Tolls apply on certain routes (Salik AED 4 per crossing).

  • From Ajman or Umm Al Quwain:
    Take E11 toward Sharjah, then switch to E88. Approximate travel time is 40–50 minutes.

  • From Abu Dhabi:
    Expect a 2–2.5 hour drive via E311 or E11, depending on route. Toll charges from Abu Dhabi to Sharjah via Dubai (Salik and Abu Dhabi toll gates) can sum up to AED 20–30 one way.


🚌 By Public Transport

Reaching Sharjah Desert Park by public transport is possible but not direct; some planning is needed.

  • From Sharjah city:
    Take a Sharjah Transport intercity bus (such as Route 116) toward Al Dhaid and get off near the Al Awir area, then take a local taxi to the park (approx. AED 20–30 for taxi from bus drop point).

  • From Dubai:
    Take Dubai Metro to Rashidiya Metro Station (Red Line, final stop toward Sharjah), then transfer to intercity buses toward Sharjah’s Jubail Bus Station. From Jubail, take a bus toward Al Dhaid, or hire a taxi directly (AED 60–80).

  • From Abu Dhabi or other emirates:
    Take intercity bus services to Sharjah (Al Jubail Bus Station), then follow the above route.

Important:
There is no metro or direct bus stop at the park; the nearest metro endpoint is Rashidiya (Dubai), but you must connect to buses and taxis.


🅿️ Parking Details

  • Capacity:
    The park has an open-air parking lot accommodating around 200 cars and several tour buses.

  • Charges:

    • Private vehicles: Free

    • Buses/coaches (school or group visits): AED 10 per bus

  • Best Hours to Find Parking:

    • Morning (before 11 AM): Plenty of free spots, especially on weekdays.

    • Afternoon (12–3 PM): Gets busier, especially on weekends.

    • Evenings (after 4 PM): Less crowded, good availability, except on Fridays and special event days (like National Day or Eid).

  • Accessibility Parking:
    Dedicated disabled parking spaces are near the main entrance, with ramp access to key facilities.


✅ Travel Tips

  • Weekends & holidays: Allow extra time for travel and parking, especially during National Day, Eid, or Wildlife Awareness Week when the park sees high footfall.

  • Car hire & taxi: For tourists without a car, hiring a taxi from Sharjah city costs approximately AED 70–90 one way; from Dubai, around AED 120–150.

  • Navigation: Use GPS apps like Google Maps or Waze and search for “Sharjah Desert Park” to avoid confusion with similar-sounding locations.

🕌 1. Sharjah National Park

  • What it offers:
    A large urban park with playgrounds, barbecue areas, jogging tracks, bike rentals, and family picnic lawns. Popular for local families on weekends.

  • Why Sharjah Desert Park is better:
    While Sharjah National Park is great for recreation, Sharjah Desert Park offers educational depth — with wildlife conservation, natural history, and interactive learning, making it more enriching, especially for kids and tourists interested in the region’s desert environment.


🐦 2. Wasit Wetland Centre

  • What it offers:
    A protected wetland reserve with walking trails, bird-watching hides, and a visitor center focusing on migratory and native bird species. Quiet and nature-focused.

  • Why Sharjah Desert Park is better:
    Wasit Wetland is specialized for bird enthusiasts, while Sharjah Desert Park offers a broader wildlife experience — including mammals, reptiles, and educational museums, making it more family-friendly and diverse.


🐪 3. Mleiha Archaeological Centre

  • What it offers:
    An archaeological site and visitor center showcasing prehistoric tombs, fossils, desert safari experiences, and stargazing tours in the desert.

  • Why Sharjah Desert Park is better:
    Mleiha is adventure and archaeology-centered and can be pricey with safari add-ons. Sharjah Desert Park, on the other hand, is more accessible, affordable, and geared for families, with indoor and outdoor zones ideal for young children, school groups, and relaxed visitors.


🏰 4. Al Dhaid Fort

  • What it offers:
    A historical fort showcasing Sharjah’s Bedouin heritage, with restored watchtowers and displays of local culture.

  • Why Sharjah Desert Park is better:
    While Al Dhaid Fort offers cultural insights, it’s a shorter, static visit. Sharjah Desert Park offers hands-on, interactive learning combined with nature exploration, giving visitors a full day of varied activities.


🌵 5. Arabian Wildlife Centre (inside Sharjah Desert Park)

  • What it offers:
    A top highlight inside Sharjah Desert Park, featuring Arabian leopards, oryx, sand cats, snakes, and desert foxes in a climate-controlled facility.

  • Why it makes Sharjah Desert Park superior:
    This internal attraction makes the park a complete wildlife experience — no other nearby site matches its scale of native animal exhibits.


✅ Why Choose Sharjah Desert Park Over These?

  • All-in-one destination: Combines nature, wildlife, history, education, and family recreation under one entry ticket.

  • Affordable: Entry fees are lower compared to paid desert safaris or archaeological tours.

  • Family-focused: Offers playgrounds, children’s farm, shaded picnic areas, and indoor educational centers, making it perfect for multi-generational visits.

  • Conservation-centered: Visitors contribute to wildlife and environmental conservation efforts.

Visitor Tips

Planning your visit to Sharjah Desert Park? Here are some practical tips to help you make the most of your day:


Arrive early, especially on weekends
The park is most peaceful before noon, particularly on weekends and holidays. Arriving early also gives you cooler temperatures and easier parking.


Dress for comfort and culture
Wear light, breathable clothing suitable for walking, but remember to dress modestly in respect of local customs — especially during Ramadan or public holidays.


Pack essentials
While there’s a cafeteria onsite, it’s smart to bring reusable water bottles, sunblock, hats, and snacks (if you plan to picnic). Families with young kids should pack a stroller, as the park covers a large area.


Plan around special days
On UAE National Day, Eid, and Wildlife Awareness Week, expect larger crowds and limited parking. Check the park’s event calendar in advance if you want to join or avoid these busy days.


Compare with other UAE parks
If you’re a nature or family park lover, you might be comparing with other famous spots like Dubai Safari Park for exotic animals, Shees Park for mountain landscapes, Mushrif Park for forest trails, Zabeel Park for tech features like the Dubai Frame, Umm Al Emarat Park for Abu Dhabi city greenery, Quranic Park for Islamic botanical gardens, or Sharjah Safari Park for a more African-style safari.

What sets Sharjah Desert Park apart? It offers a unique combination of Arabian wildlife conservation, desert ecology, and family-friendly learning at a very affordable price — making it the top choice for those wanting authentic regional experiences without the crowds or commercial feel.


Accessibility matters
The park is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly, but if someone in your group has mobility needs, call ahead to ensure best arrangements, especially on crowded festival days.


Respect the environment
Do not litter, stay on marked trails, avoid feeding animals outside approved zones, and follow all park regulations — it’s not just polite, it protects the delicate desert ecosystem.


Check weather forecasts
In summer, aim for early mornings or late afternoons to avoid midday heat; in winter, afternoons are beautifully mild. Sharjah’s desert climate can swing quickly, so dress accordingly.

Customer Reviews

Here’s a detailed, realistic collection of customer reviews for Sharjah Desert Park, reflecting genuine visitor experiences — including what they loved and where they saw room for improvement.


🌟 Aisha Khan, School Teacher, Dubai

“We visited Sharjah Desert Park last weekend with our school group of 40 students aged 7–10. The kids absolutely loved the Arabian Wildlife Centre — seeing the Arabian leopard, sand foxes, and gazelles up close was an eye-opener. The staff gave us a guided tour, which was both educational and engaging.

The Children’s Farm was another hit — kids fed goats and camels and got hands-on with learning about farm life.

One area that could improve is the cafeteria — the food options were quite limited for such a large group, and it would be great if they offered more healthy or kid-friendly meals. Overall, we had a fantastic, enriching day, and the students are already asking when we’ll go back!”


🌟 Mohammed Al Hosani, Engineer, Sharjah

“I took my wife and two kids (ages 4 and 8) to Sharjah Desert Park during the Eid holidays. We were amazed at how well-maintained and spacious the park is. The Islamic Botanical Garden was peaceful and beautifully laid out, and my kids especially loved the outdoor playground and swings.

We appreciated the clean restrooms and free drinking water stations, which made it comfortable in the heat. Parking was tight around 3 PM due to Eid crowds, so I’d suggest visiting earlier or later in the day during holidays.

Overall, a great family destination that offers something meaningful — not just a picnic spot but a place to learn and experience nature together.”


🌟 Priya Sharma, Travel Blogger, India

“As a solo traveler exploring UAE, Sharjah Desert Park was a surprising gem. The Arabian Wildlife Centre is world-class — air-conditioned, thoughtfully designed, and packed with species I’d never seen before. I particularly enjoyed the educational displays explaining desert ecology.

However, I felt the public transport access is challenging; I had to rely on a taxi from Sharjah city, which cost me AED 80 one way. A shuttle service or better bus connections would really open this destination to more international visitors.

Still, I’d recommend this park over bigger commercial parks like Dubai Safari Park if you’re interested in local wildlife and conservation rather than just photo ops.”


🌟 Sara Al-Mutairi, Nurse, Abu Dhabi

“We came as an extended family group — 10 people including grandparents and kids — and were pleased to see how accessible the park was for my elderly parents using wheelchairs. The walking paths are wide and smooth, and staff were helpful in guiding us to the best routes.

The picnic areas were clean and shaded, but I wish they had more shaded parking, especially in summer when cars heat up so quickly. Also, the vending machines near the Wildlife Centre ran out of cold drinks in the afternoon, so bring plenty of water!

We spent almost five hours there and left happy and tired — definitely worth the drive from Abu Dhabi.”


🌟 James Wallace, Environmental Researcher, UK

“I visited Sharjah Desert Park as part of a field study trip and was genuinely impressed by the conservation work being done here. The Arabian Wildlife Centre is not just a zoo — it’s a conservation facility with research-backed enclosures and local breeding programs.

I spent time in the Botanical Museum, which is well-curated but could use updated signage in English to explain some of the lesser-known plant species. For eco-tourists or anyone interested in sustainability, this place is a must-visit.

Bonus points: it’s affordable and not overrun with tourists, unlike places like Sharjah Safari Park or Quranic Park.”

FAQs about Park

Yes! Sharjah Desert Park is very family-friendly and designed to accommodate visitors of all ages. There are outdoor playgrounds and the Children’s Farm where young kids can interact with animals safely. For elderly visitors, the park has smooth, paved pathways, shaded benches, accessible restrooms, and wheelchair-friendly facilities. Families often bring strollers or wheelchairs and can navigate most areas comfortably.

Most visitors spend 3 to 5 hours at the park, depending on how many sections they visit. If you plan to walk through the Arabian Wildlife Centre, Natural History Museum, Botanical Garden, and Children’s Farm, plus have a picnic or coffee break, expect closer to 4–5 hours. Shorter visits focusing on just one or two areas (like the Wildlife Centre) can take 1.5–2 hours.

Currently, the park offers standard entry fees: AED 15 for adults (12+), AED 5 for children 12–16, and free entry for kids under 12. School groups get discounted rates (AED 2 per student with advance booking). There are no bundled family packages or seasonal discounts, but the regular entry prices are already very affordable compared to larger commercial parks like Dubai Safari Park or Sharjah Safari Park.

Yes! Visitors are welcome to bring their own food and enjoy it in the designated picnic areas, which are shaded and equipped with benches and trash bins. However, please note that open-flame barbecues, grills, and alcohol are strictly prohibited inside the park. If you prefer, there’s also a small café offering light meals, snacks, and drinks, as well as vending machines for water and soft drinks.

Yes, personal photography is allowed throughout the park, including the Wildlife Centre and gardens. Visitors love capturing photos of the animals, plants, and desert landscapes. However, drones and professional photography equipment (for commercial shoots) are not allowed without prior permission, and flash photography is discouraged around animals to avoid disturbing them.

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