Guide To Dubai Safari Park: Plan Your Visit With Our Tips [Real Photos Inside]

Come to rub a pony’s rugged nose, see endangered Asian pygmy elephants within a tropical ecosystem, and feed long-necked giraffes, captivating vigorous birds, and adorable goats.

Take in mesmerizing animal live shows and unwind on the lush lawn amidst awe-inspiring natural marvels – all awaiting you at Dubai Safari Park!

In our comprehensive guide to Dubai Safari Park, discover ticket pricing, VIP offerings, park areas, captivating shows, and essential tips to enhance your visit.

About Dubai Safari Park 

Enormous at 12.8 million square feet, Dubai Safari Park is an environmentally conscious project that runs on solar electricity.

Dubai Municipality has allocated around 149.8 million AED for the urban development initiative as part of its ambitious plans to bolster the tourism sector.

This transformation marks the relocation of the former Dubai Zoo, which housed a mere 1,000 animals and started operating back in 1967, to the state-of-the-art Dubai Safari Park.

Notably, the previous zoo had faced significant challenges and criticism from animal welfare organizations regarding the inadequate living conditions for wild animals, prompting the need for improvement.

Dubai Safari Park is a significant step forward in terms of animal treatment and conservation efforts, with a focus on creating naturalistic environments for the indigenous animals.

Although the park was officially inaugurated in 2017, it was fully accessible to the public in 2020 following a temporary closure in 2018 for enhancements.

A vast variety of creatures, including large cats, monkeys, reptiles, and birds, are available to gaze at. Now, beyond being a mere zoo, it’s a unique animal spectacle complemented by an insightful teaching endeavor.

Your journey will begin at the Explorer Village (where the Safari Journey starts as well), then continue to the African Village, then to the Asian Village, and end with a 10-minute ride through the Arabian Village area (included in all ticket options) and Kids Farm.

• Suggested Duration: 5-6 hours
• Year Opened: 2017
• Number of Animals: 3000+

Facilities:

• Impeccably maintained and wheelchair-accessible restroom facilities
• Four food trucks, kiosks and restaurants serving Arabic, Italian, Mediterranean, and Persian cuisine
• Accessible walkways for strollers
• Availability of first aid services
• Wheelchair assistance provided
• Shaded areas
• Train service around the park
• Golf cars to get around the park for extra pay
• Designated prayer rooms
• Lost & Found services
• Baby changing amenities exclusively in the female restrooms
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access
• Professional photo services
• Two souvenir outlets where you can buy a plush cheetah, owl, or raccoon, as well as mugs in the shape of a tiger, giraffe, or leopard head, and other animal-themed products

Let’s discover the shows and services that can be added to your stay as we delve into the park’s fascinating zones – Arabian Desert Safari, African Village, Explorer Village with Safari Journey, Asian Village, Kids Farm, and Al Wadi.

Arabian Desert Safari

The 14.8 acres of Arabian Desert Safari, which serves as the entrance to Dubai Safari Park, allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the magnificent sandy environment. During the tour with a guide that lasts 20 minutes, guests may learn about the local wildlife, the desert’s ecosystem, and Dubai Safari Park’s efforts to protect the desert’s natural beauty.

Through attractions such as Arabian Desert Safari, guests may observe the efforts made to restore native flora and fauna, for instance, the Arabian oryx and the rarely-seen Arabian wolves.

Gazelles, Mouflons, Ostriches, Addax, and Scimitar-Horned Oryx also live at this site.

More than that, you can savor a classic Arab BBQ meal at Arabian Desert Safari.

African Village

The African Village, a unique portrayal of the African continent, is a sanctuary for a vast array of over 82 animal species. The central attraction of this area is the magnificent African Elephant, which enthralls guests with its commanding presence.

Furthermore, visitors to the African Village have the chance to encounter a remarkable diversity of wildlife, counting lions, mixed and sable antelopes, bongos, meerkats, servals, African wild dogs, hyenas, warthogs, pygmy hippos, lemurs, elands, gemsboks, nyalas, and numerous others.

In addition, the African Village showcases Gorilla and Chimpanzee Houses, along with a Reptile House that boasts more than 50 species of reptiles, including turtles, snakes, and lizards.

The expansive Grand Aviary, the largest of its kind in the UAE region, is a haven for hundreds of birds, providing a captivating spectacle for bird enthusiasts.

Furthermore, guests have the opportunity to explore Lemur Island. After witnessing it, you will feel compelled to grin and hum the lyrics of the tune ‘I Like to Move It Move It’ if you catch my drift.

Asian Village

The Asian Village is a captivating representation of the lush and verdant landscapes of the Asia region. One of the most intriguing inhabitants of this section is the Moon bear, distinguished by a distinctive light spot on its chest resembling a flying bird, earning it the moniker “white-breasted”.

Adding to the allure, the rare Borneo pygmy elephant, a subspecies of the Asian elephant, takes center stage. With a lineage dating back to the Sundai population approximately 300,000 years ago, these elephants face significant threats due to deforestation for plantations and human encroachment on their habitats, resulting in a dwindling population of 1000-1600 individuals on the island.

Furthermore, the Asian Village is home to an array of captivating animals including addaxes, gazelles, Arabian wolves, wallabies, cassowaries, gibbons, orangutanы, otters, Arabian and Scimitar-Horned Oryx, and so on.

Visitors can also delight in the daily shows at the Asian Village Theatre, where the “Amazing Creatures of the World” exhibit showcases the ordinary and interesting points associated with the habits of various animals.

Explorer Village & Safari 

The zone’s name itself hints at the adventurous spirit it invokes, beckoning all who enter to embrace their inner explorer. The park’s busiest section is brimming with fascinating live performances that aim to inform and delight guests about the wonders of wild animals.

The Birds Show, a vibrant 25-minute spectacle, showcases the awe-inspiring sight of birds spreading their wings, leaving spectators in wonderment.

Additionally, the Safari Journey, operating from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, treats visitors to a 35-minute ride through the sandy and stony grounds, boasting glimpses of hippopotamuses, antelopes, giraffes, cheetahs, zebras, and an opportunity to traverse the habitat of the elusive white rhinoceros.

Note that Safari Journey is not included in the Standard Day Pas. To experience Safari Journey (which is recommendable) you should buy Safari Journey or Safari Journey Plus Tickets.

Moreover, guests can partake in the enriching experience of feeding giraffes, adding an interactive element to their visit. You should pay an extra 5 AED for a package of salad or 10 AED for a package of carrots to feed them.

The diverse array of animals at Explorer Village includes crocodiles, Watusi cows, Sambar deers, Barbary sheep, Cape buffalo, Ibex, Kudus, African wild dogs, and many more.

Learn more about the best zoos in the UAE.

Kids Farm

The Kids Farm is an enchanting haven designed to delight young visitors, offering an array of engaging activities. Children can revel in the joy of giving snacks to pygmy goats, indulge in bird watching at the Kids Farm Aviary, and gain insights into farm animals.

This is not merely a space for passive animal viewing through the bars, but rather a carefully curated environment where children can actively touch, feed, and interact with the animals under the attentive supervision of staff.

In addition to ponies and goats, the Kids Farm is home to a charming assortment of creatures, including chickens, domestic ducks, donkeys, tortoises, and greater rheas, ensuring a diverse and captivating encounter for young visitors.

What could be more delightful than running one’s fingers through the soft mane of a pony, offering carrots to friendly goats, and experiencing the joy of pony rides? These experiences are sure to evoke squeals of joy and create lasting memories for the children at Kids Farm.

Al Wadi

If you seek a well-deserved break or a satisfying meal following an exhilarating stroll filled with new experiences, head to Al Wadi.

This peaceful haven has a variety of eating alternatives, such as two small restaurants and kiosks where you can get refreshments and delicious foods to eat outside in the picnic area, which is surrounded by green and climbing plants and the calming sound of waterfalls.

Following this, visitors can capture stunning photos of graceful birds, like ducks and swans, boosting their impression with a hint of the beauty of nature.

Moreover, Al Wadi offers the exclusive chance to take part in pelican feeding, an activity that can be reserved in advance for an additional layer of enjoyment.

Adjacent to the lake, close to the Chimpanzee station at African Village, lies Adventure Valley, an adrenaline-pumping zone offering an array of thrilling activities such as ziplining, free fall jumps, climbing walls, cargo net climbing, adventure trails, trampolining, indoor and outdoor soft play areas, and splash pods, ensuring an action-packed and memorable visit.

Adventure Valley could be under construction now. Please check with the Safari Park directly.

Shows

At Dubai Safari Park, visitors can immerse themselves in a series of captivating live presentations and engaging animal feeding sessions.

The live presentations include the Bird Kingdom show at 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM, as well as the Amazing Creature of the World show at 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM, both hosted at the Explorer Village.

Exploring the Bird Kingdom offers a wonderful opportunity to gain insight into the vital role of owls, parrots, or falcons in the ecosystem. Delve into the awe-inspiring world of avian communication, foraging behaviors, and their remarkable ability to adapt to diverse environments.

Additionally, guests can witness the Birds of Prey show at 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM at the Asian Village.

Furthermore, the park offers an array of animal feeding sessions, giving guests the chance to interact with the wild creatures.

At the Explorer Village, guests can partake in giraffe feeding sessions at 10:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, and 4:00 PM, creating memorable interactions with these graceful animals.

Additionally, at the Kids Farm, bird feeding sessions take place from 12:00 to 12:30 PM and 3:45 to 4:15 PM, while goat feeding sessions occur from 11:30 to 11:45 AM and 4:15 to 4:30 PM.

Opening Date And Closing Date 2023-2024

Every year Dubai Safari Park is closed for summer. Usually, it opens at the end of September or at the beginning of October.

In 2023 Dubai Safari Park welcomed visitors once again on the 5th of October. It is planned to be open till the end of May 2024.

Timings

Dubai Safari Park’s operating hours are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM with the last entry at 3:00 PM.

Tickets Options

GetYourGuide
Dubai: Dubai Safari Park Entry Tickets	from $16/ AED 58.76	Check availability
Tiqets
Tickets for Dubai Safari Park	from $13.70/ AED 50.32	Check availability
Rayna Tours
Dubai Safari Park- Day Pass without transfer	from $12.33/ AED50	Check availability
Dubai Safari Park- Day Pass with private transfer	from $131.52/  AED 485	Check availability
Dubai Safari Park – Journey Ticket without transfer	from $24.87/ AED 90	Check availability
Dubai Safari Park – Journey Ticket with private transfer	from $144.05/ AED 525	Check availability
Klook
Dubai Safari Park Ticket	from $13.8/ AED50	Check availability
Viator
Dubai Safari Park With Transfer	from $145/AED 533	Check availability
Dubai Safari Park	from $20.93/ AED 77	Check availability

Dubai Safari Park Tickets:

• Day Pass

Enjoy unlimited access to Dubai Safari Park, granting you the opportunity to discover the wonders of the Al Wadi area, the African & Asian Villages, Kids’ Farm, and Explorer Village.

Additionally, the pass encompasses a range of enriching experiences, including a 10-minute Arabian Desert Safari, access to all shows such as Bird Kingdom, Amazing Creature of the World, and Birds of Prey held throughout the day, as well as participation in all animal feeding sessions, excluding the Giraffe Feeding experience, which can be availed for an additional 5-10 AED. Furthermore, the upcoming 2023-2024 season will feature an exclusive ‘Wildlife Talk’ as part of the pass.

• Day Pass+

It encompasses a multitude of offerings of the Day Pass, including exclusive access to the park’s attractions and additional services such as convenient train transportation and the assurance of reserved seating for the enthralling live shows featuring birds and other captivating animals.

• Safari Journey

By purchasing the Safari Journey option, you can discover every zone, and take part in all spectacles, feeding events, and lively “Wildlife Talk” sessions. Enjoy the added convenience of taking the train to explore Dubai Safari Park, going on an exciting 10-minute Arabian Desert Safari, and relaxing on a 35-minute Guided Safari Journey bus trip.

• Safari Journey+

Experience the complete array of Safari Journey offers, complemented by the added assurance of securing reserved seating for the captivating live shows featuring an array of birds and animals.

Special Experiences:

• King of Safari

Made to hold up to 10 esteemed guests, this premium package comes with the committed assistance of an expert guide who will enthrall the whole group with fascinating details about the creatures in each area that are open for access. In addition, visitors will benefit from the ease of reserved seats, which guarantees a royal experience while taking in the captivating live performances.

The package includes expedited fast-track access, a treasured printed photo as a memento, and special access to designated VIP P1 parking. It guarantees an incredibly smooth and wonderful experience for 2,500 AED.

• Behind the Scenes

Take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime chance to discover more about the outstanding care given to these remarkable wildlife species as you enter the world of animal keepers. You can take part in feeding experiences with elephants or giraffes and help groom the magnificent white rhinoceros during this engaging excursion. This VIP package, which costs 1,450 AED and is designed for parties of up to 10 people, comes with exclusive vehicle access and an attentive guide, making your wildlife experience genuinely unique and customized.

• Dine in the Wild

Have a genuinely exceptional dining experience where you may enjoy your preferred dish, whether it’s hot or cold mezze while taking in the captivating sight of lions or giraffes. This special excursion, which costs 2,000 AED and can accommodate up to 6 people, promises an amazing gastronomic adventure deep within the wilderness.

• Jungle Capture

Photography enthusiasts will be treated to exceptional high-quality photographs capturing a memorable journey through the park’s diverse zones. Over 3 hours, a dedicated guide will skillfully capture captivating images of both the magnificent animals and you within their natural surroundings, all within the comfort of a private vehicle. This exclusive package, priced at 1,275 AED, is tailored for up to 3 individuals, ensuring a personalized and visually stunning photographic adventure.

Check out the list of outdoor activities in Dubai.

Booking Policy

Receive a complete refund for your ticket purchase through GetYourGuide or Viator within 24 hours of booking. With Tiqets, you can cancel your reservation until 11:59 PM on the day prior to your scheduled visit. However, Rayna Tours and Klook do not offer ticket cancellations and refunds.

Location

The exact address is 5CCW+H5 – Al Warqa 5 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates.

How To Reach Dubai Safari Park

To get to Dubai Safari Park, you have a few transportation options.

• By Metro: If you prefer public transport, you can take the Red Metro Line – Centerpoint (previously) Rashidiya Station and catch a 15-minute taxi ride to the park.
• By bus: Alternatively, you can take a F10 route to get to the park.
• By taxi: If you’re taking a taxi, you can hail a cab via YanGo, Careem, or Uber app.
• By car: You can drive your own vehicle by setting the navigator to the exact address mentioned in the section above and park in one of the three free parking zones, which can accommodate a total of 2980 cars.

Dubai Safari Park Map

Reviews

After analyzing the feedback on Google Maps, there are both positive and negative aspects to consider when planning a visit to Dubai Safari Park.

Pros:

• Extremely helpful guides and staff
• Well-coordinated live shows
• A clean and spacious environment for the animals
• Ample shaded areas and relaxation spots
• An abundance of restroom facilities throughout the park

Cons:

• Can become quite hot, especially in the daytime
• It may be challenging to cover a lot of ground, particularly with children, if you opt for the standard Day Pass
• Dining and shopping options are on the pricier side

Tips

Here are some exclusive tips for your visit to Dubai Safari Park:

• We recommend you choosing Safari Journey or Safari Journey Plus Tickets which include Safari Journey.
• Consider that the park area is huge so it is challenging to get around by foot, so if you are not planning to experience Safari Journey, choose at least Day Pass+ ticket which includes train service.
• Sometimes the train service could be busy. For those who do not want to wait, a paid option is available: you can hire a super taxi (small golf cart). The cost is 10 dirhams per adult (if the height is more than 110 cm) and 5 dirhams per kid (if the height is less than 110 cm). The ticket is purchased once and is valid throughout the day at all stops in the park. It is also possible to rent a personal vehicle (like an electric scooter).
• Check the live show and feeding schedules to ensure you don’t miss any of the exciting activities.
• Don’t forget to apply sunscreen (SPF 50 for the face is required) and wear hats, preferably wide-brimmed ones, as the sun can be merciless in unshaded areas.
• Ensure you have an adequate supply of water, there are no free water stations and many reviews note that the price for water in kiosks is overpriced.
• Carry a camera with the flash turned off beforehand to record the breathtaking scenery and amazing animal interactions.
• It’s advisable to carry cash with you as there are no ATMs available within the park.
• Book your Dubai Safari Park ticket online on the official website or through ticket providers with discounts and other advantages like private transportation to the venue.

Learn more about the best parks in Dubai.

Rules

When visiting Dubai Safari Park, it’s crucial to follow these guidelines:

1. Prohibited Items: No vehicles may be carried or used within the park. Also, to avoid scaring your pet and the animals of the park, it is forbidden to come here with your beloved puppy or cat.
2. Respect for Wildlife and Others: Treat the park’s animals, visitors, and amenities with respect. Avoid carrying items that could put the animals under stress or lead to the disease, such as flash photography, strong perfume smells, balloons, or toy guns.
3. Smoking-Free Venue: Smoking is only allowed in specified smoking zones located throughout the park.
4. No alcohol or outside F&B: Use the venue’s restaurants and kiosks only. It is prohibited to consume any alcohol on park grounds.
5. Pay attention to your attire: It is kindly requested to dress modestly during your visit.
6. Metal detectors and screening are required: For everyone’s safety and comfort, every staff member and visitor to the park must pass a security check before they are allowed entry.

Visitors can help ensure that everyone has a fun and safe time at Dubai Safari Park by paying attention to these instructions.

Dubai Safari Park Photos

Videos

To make the most of your visit to Dubai Safari Park, it is advisable to plan for at least half a day or a full day at the park, arriving early to maximize your time. Opting for journey-type tickets (Safari Journey package), which include the train and bus safari, can greatly enhance the overall experience, allowing you to explore the park’s diverse zones and wildlife comprehensively and conveniently.