Are you looking for a unique wildlife experience in the United Arab Emirates? Look no further than Umm Al Quwain Zoo, a hidden gem located at the heart of this picturesque emirate. For residents and tourists alike in the UAE, there's an exciting experience awaiting animal lovers of all ages.
What Makes Umm Al Quwain Zoo Unique?
Umm Al Quwain Zoo, or The Zoo Wildlife Park, is not your average zoo. It's a sanctuary where you can get up close and personal with a diverse range of animals in a more intimate setting than larger, crowded zoos.
A Home for Diverse Species
If you love exploring wildlife, then this is the right stop for you. Prepare to be amazed as you encounter several unique creatures from the wild, each captivating you with its beauty and distinctive characteristics. Be prepared for:
- Lions, tigers and bears, oh my! Well, maybe not bears, but definitely lions and tigers
- Colorful birds that will make you feel like you're in a tropical paradise
- Playful monkeys that will surely entertain with their antics
- Majestic big cats like leopards and cheetahs
- Various reptiles, including snakes and lizards
There are over 70 species of animals in the zoo, so it's a great place to learn about wildlife from around the world.

Planning Your Visit
Location & How to Get There
Umm Al Quwain Zoo is conveniently located off the E11 road and can be easily accessed from other emirates. It is about a 45-minute drive from Dubai or Sharjah.
- Pro tip: Use the "rent a car Umm Al Quwain" facility if you are coming from another emirate. This will give you the liberty to explore the zoo and other attractions in the vicinity at your own leisure.
Umm Al Quwain Zoo Ticket Price
Another great aspect of this zoo is that it's affordable. The Umm Al Quwain Zoo ticket price is quite cheap, particularly in comparison to some of the bigger attractions in the UAE. This makes it ideal for families or groups of people who want to have a fun day out on a budget.
- Adult tickets: AED 15
- Children (under 12): AED 10
- Children under 3: Free admission
Best Time to Visit
The zoo is open daily from 8 AM to 8 PM from Monday to Thursday, and from Friday to Sunday, the timings are from 8 AM to 10 PM.
The summer hours, which are from July to September, the timing for the weekdays is from 3:30 PM to 8 PM, and on weekends from 3:30 PM to 10 PM. For the best visit, head out early morning or late afternoon when the temperature is milder and the animals are more active.
What to Expect at the Zoo Wildlife Umm Al Quwain
Animal Encounters
One of the highlights of a trip to Zoo Umm Al Quwain is the proximity to the animals. Unlike the big zoos where you might end up feeling distant from the exhibits, here you can get up close and personal.
- Feed the friendly giraffes
- Watch the big cats during feeding time
- Watch the monkeys and their antics
- Gaze at exotic birds and their vibrant plumage
Educational Opportunities
The zoo is not just animal viewing; it's also learning. Throughout the park, they have informational signs with interesting facts about each species. It's a great way to educate children (and adults!) about wildlife conservation and why we need to protect endangered species.
Photography Paradise
For photography enthusiasts, the zoo in Umm Al Quwain offers plenty of opportunities to capture good wildlife photos. The naturalistic habitats and proximity to the animals assist in capturing that good photo.
Do be respectful of the animals and follow the zoo regulations on photography.
Beyond the Zoo - Umm Al Quwain Exploration
As impressive as the zoo certainly is, there is more to Umm Al Quwain. Having seen the zoo, why not go and see some of the other attractions of the emirate?
Dreamland Aqua Park
A short drive from the zoo, Dreamland Aqua Park is one of the largest water parks in the region. It is a great way to pass the afternoon after spending the morning at the zoo, especially during the hotter months.
Al Sinniyah Island
Nature lovers will appreciate Al Sinniyah Island, a nature reserve with mangroves and a diverse bird population. A contrast to the zoo visit that is very different but no less fascinating.
Umm Al Quwain Museum
Those interested in history and culture can stop by the Umm Al Quwain Museum to discover the history of the emirate housed in an old fort.
Tips for a Great Visit to Umm Al Quwain Zoo
- Wear comfortable shoes as you will be doing a lot of walking
- Bring water and snacks, although there is also a small cafeteria
- Bring your camera to capture lasting memories
- Attempt to visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds
- Check feeding times to catch the animals when they are most active
Making the Most of Your Zoo Experience
To fully enjoy Umm Al Quwain Zoo, go at your own pace. Unlike in bigger zoos, where you may feel like you have to hurry to get around to see everything, here you can slow down and view the animals in a relaxed manner. Take a seat for a bit by the monkey enclosure and observe their social behavior. Hang out with the big cats for a bit and try to notice the variations between species.

A Must-Visit Place in the UAE
Umm Al Quwain Zoo may not be the biggest or most famous zoo in the UAE, but it offers an intimate and personal wildlife experience that is hard to find elsewhere. Its low prices, extensive range of animals, and educational value make it a great outing for families, couples, or wildlife fans of any sort.
So the next time you're organizing a day out in the UAE, think about a visit to Umm Al Quwain Zoo location. It's not just a zoo – it's an adventure waiting to be had, an educational experience, and an opportunity to get close to nature, all packaged together in one thrilling bundle.