Umm Al Quwain Zoo: Full Guide, Timing, Ticket Price & More
The Umm Al Quwain Zoo is a private zoo where amazing animals can be found. The moment we think of tourist spots in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), two names come immediately to our minds – Dubai & Abu Dhabi. While these two cities are brimming over with tourist attractions of every hue – and they have tourist inflows by the millions annually – the other 5 emirates of the country are also very rich in tourist attractions, even though they may not get high tourist footfalls. And one such emirate is Umm Al Quwain (UAQ).
Umm Al Quwain is the 2nd smallest emirate of the UAE. But it is fairly well-endowed in terms of tourist spots – natural & artificial. And one such spot that perfectly blends natural beauties and human intervention is the Umm Al Quwain zoo, also known as The Zoo Wild Life Park.
The UAQ zoo is a private park that boasts of a wonderful collection of a diverse range of fauna, both wild as well as domesticated. All in all, it provides a great opportunity for a perfect day out for the entire family, where fun & learning create a nice combo. This article will serve as a complete guide to the Umm Al Quwain zoo.
Things to Do in Umm Al Quwain Zoo
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Get to See a Range of Wild Animals
A variety of animals from all corners of the globe will greet you as soon as you step into UAQ zoo. They include the magnificent big cats like tigers, lions, and leopards. There are also majestic felines like cheetahs and striped hyenas to be seen here. Primates like baboons, monkeys, orangutans, and lemurs have also made the UAQ zoo their home. Plus, you will also get to see a wide variety of avian species here like the spectacular flamingoes and macaws, along with owls, green parrots, and vultures. Various types of snakes can also be seen here, along with lesser seen animals like chinchillas and the elusive Arabian Oryx.
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Get Interactive with the Fauna
This is one of the best features of the UAQ zoo. You can get to pet docile animals like goats, camels, and kangaroos. Do you fancy yourself as a daredevil? Well then – you can get up close with the big cats like tigers & lions, and get yourself clicked with them; but of course, it would all be under strict supervision from the animal trainers. The trainers are as knowledgeable as they are amiable, and they will be happy to answer your multitude of questions about the fauna. They would also share lot of interesting information about the animals and also about their conservation efforts.
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Up Close with the Reptiles
For the Bravehearts, UAQ Zoo provides a most daring opportunity – get to drape a snake around you! Yes, you read that right. The snake can slither around your body while you get those Insta-worthy selfies clicked. However, snake exhibits take place only on weekends. If you prefer something less adventurous, then the docile iguanas are there for you. They are very friendly and at the same time, would give a lot of photo apps too.
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Play With the Resident Orangutan
Habooba is the resident orangutan in UAQ Zoo, and she is quite a showstopper! Visitors can play with her, go for strolls with her, and get lots of photos clicked in the process. She is very playful & friendly and you would not want to let go of her. This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance for you.
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Go for a Camel or Horse Ride
Another interesting way for you to navigate the park is to hop on to a horse or camel’s back and take a ride around the zoo. The journey would be relaxing, rewarding, and highly enjoyable. It will for sure be a memorable experience for you.
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Watch the Birds in Action
The avian species of the UAQ zoo are no less attractive or fun to be with. A lot of birds, including speaking parrots, are to be seen here. chat with the parrots – they are highly talkative – try to learn some bird language, or teach them a word or two from your native language! The colorful birds also make for excellent photographs.
Other Fun Activities at the Zoo
Along with viewing the animals, there are some other enjoyable activities that you can indulge in here. the kids in the group can test themselves at the variety of obstacle courses that are challenging & fun in equal measures. They can try their hand at the mini golf course here. You can also enjoy the train ride here that will take you around the park. And multiple picnic zones around the park create perfect opportunities for a family hangout.
Umm Al Quwain Zoo Timing
July to September: 03:30 p.m. to 08:00 p.m.; on weekends it is from 03:30 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.
October to June: 08:00 a.m. to 08:00 p.m.; on weekends it is from 08:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
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UAQ Zoo Entry Fee
| Adults | AED 25 |
| Children (Age 1-14) | AED 25 |
| Toddlers | Free |
| People of determination | Free |
Horse riding: AED 10; Camel ride: AED 10; Animal feeding: AED 5
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For Getting Up Close with Animals
| ENCOUNTER CATEGORY | COST |
| Tigers | AED 200 |
| Tortoises | Free |
| Lemurs | AED 2 |
How Can You Reach UAQ Zoo?
Car – you can drive down to the zoo via the E11 (Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road) and reach the zoo easily by following the signs.
Taxi – taxis are very easily available at Umm Al Quwain City Centre. From there, you will reach the zoo in a taxi in less than 15 minutes.
Bus – if you are coming from Dubai, you can catch the bus E601 from the Etihad Bus Station in Deira & get down at the Union roundabout in Umm Al Quwain. Taxis are readily available from here.
Five Nearby Places to Visit from UAQ Zoo
- UAQ National Museum – travel back in time as you get to priceless ancient artifacts excavated from Ed-Dur, one of the largest of its kind in the country.
- Dreamland Aqua Park – an array of water rides & games for the entire family, including a simulated (and salty!) Dead Sea experience.
- Umm Al Quwain Open Beach – a long stretch of a well-maintained beach by the clean waters of the gulf. It’s peaceful, has barbecue spots, and allows opportunities for a relaxing swim.
- Imar Spa – get recharged & invigorated with a traditional hammam & hot stone massage at this premium spa.
- Al Sinniyah Island – a coveted place for nature lovers, the island is characterized by sandy beaches & dense mangrove habitation. A lot of birds like the royal flamingos inhabit the island. Be there for some essential relaxation of your mind amidst verdant nature.