I recently visited Dubai Safari Park and it's an incredible place that offers a glimpse into the wild from the heart of the city. Spread across 119 hectares, it houses over 3,000 animals from around the globe, including exotic species and endangered animals. Each zone, like the Arabian Desert Safari or the Asian Village, provides a unique experience, mirroring the natural habitats of the different animals. Whether you're an animal lover or just looking for a day of fun, Dubai Safari Park is a must-visit if you're in Dubai. It's educational, entertaining, perfect for a family day out, and I’m here to tell you what to keep in mind while you plan your visit!
Before You Visit Dubai Safari Park
I found Dubai Safari Park to be an ideal spot for visitors of all ages. Whether you're a senior, a young adult, or bringing kids along, there's something for everyone here. This place stands out from typical zoos or animal enclosures because here, animals thrive in settings that closely resemble their natural habitats. Informative guides are on hand to enhance the learning experience. From thrilling jeep safaris exploring nature to the interactive Kids' Farm that can be enjoyed by adults as well, Dubai Safari Park offers diverse attractions that guarantee every family member to have a good time!
Best time to visit
Dubai Safari Park is open annually from October to May. The park gets really busy in January and February, the peak of Dubai's winter season, attracting many tourists. Despite the crowds, this period is ideal for visiting because the cooler weather makes the experience more comfortable. If you're like me and prefer a quieter time, aim for May. You'll dodge the larger crowds and still enjoy the park's offerings in good weather. You can read more about the best time to visit Dubai and plan your travel accordingly.
Tickets to Dubai Safari Park
There are two ticket options for Dubai Safari Park. You can get the regular entry ticket, or you can opt for a ticket that includes the Safari Journey. I chose the Safari Journey and it was worth it. This ticket gave me a 35-minute guided tour in an air-conditioned bus, led by knowledgeable guides who shared fascinating insights about the animals and their habitats.
Opening hours
Dubai Safari Park is open daily from 9am to 5pm. If you don't have a ticket, you can enter latest by 3:30pm, but if you've bought your ticket online, you can enter until 4pm. The ticket counter closes at 4pm, and the Safari Journey ends at 4:30pm.
During Ramadan, the park operates from 10am to 6pm. Entry closes at 4:30pm for walk-in visitors and 5pm for those with online tickets. The ticket counter shuts at 5pm, and the last Safari Journey is at 5:30pm.
Live shows include "Amazing Creatures of the World" at 11am and 3pm, and "Birds of Prey" at 4pm.
Animal feeding times are:
- Giraffes at 10:30pm, 12:30pm, 2:30pm, and 4pm
- Birds at 12pm and 3:45pm
- Goats at 11:30pm and 4:15pm
- Pony Walk at 10pm and 4:15pm
- Guinea Pigs at 9pm and 4:30pm
The park's restaurants and food trucks are open from 11pm to 10pm.
Duration
Exploring all the villages in Dubai Safari Park typically takes around 4-5 hours, or half a day. Therefore, it’s best to allocate a full day for your visit to enjoy the park without rushing, including travel time to and from the park.
Tips for Visiting Dubai Safari Park:
- Book your tickets online to access exclusive options like the train service which aren’t available for offline booking.
- Carry a park map to navigate easily and plan your trip effectively.
- Dress comfortably with suitable footwear for walking around the park.
- Use sunscreen and bring sunglasses and hats to protect against the sun. An umbrella might be useful for shade or rain.
- Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water throughout your visit.
- The park only accepts UAE Dirhams, and there are no ATMs on-site, so ensure you have enough cash with you.
- Do not attempt to feed any animals or birds there, and do not try to touch the animals and birds there, unless prompted to do so.
Getting there
- Drop location: Dubai Safari Park, Al Warqa
- Driving is convenient with help from navigation apps or GPS.
- The park has three free parking areas for visitors.
- Nearest Stop: Al Warsan 1
- Taking the bus is budget-friendly. Routes 50, N30, and F10 from Rashidiya Metro Station stop nearby.
- It's a 12-minute walk from the bus stop to the park entrance.
- Nearest Station: Rashidiya Metro Station
- The metro station is around a 15-20 minute drive from the park.
- You can also catch RTA Bus No. F10 to get to the park.
- Drop location: Dubai Safari Park
- Taxis can be booked via the RTA website or apps like Careem.
- Fares depend on your starting point; for example, from Downtown Dubai, it typically costs about AED 55.
Amenities and accessibility
- Discounted Tickets: People with disabilities and two companions can get free access to the park. Present your SANAD Card for free entry.
- Wheelchair Access: Dubai Safari Park is fully wheelchair-friendly. Wheelchairs can be rented at guest services for a small fee, and all park transport, including buses, trains, and taxis, accommodate wheelchairs. Wheelchair-accessible restrooms are also available.
- Locker: There are no lockers in the park, but staff at the entrance can secure your items during your visit.
- Prayer Rooms: Located in the Main Building and each village, staff can direct you to these facilities.
- Wifi: Free wifi is available, with network details provided at the entrance.
- Toilets: Restrooms, including those for people with disabilities, are in the Main Building and throughout the villages.
- Souvenir Photos: Park photographers capture guest moments. Photos can be purchased at the Main Building’s Souvenir Photos counter.
- Baby Changing: Facilities for changing babies are in all villages.
- First Aid: A paramedic team is on-site to handle emergencies during park hours.
What to See at Dubai Safari Park:
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Arabian Desert Safari
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Asian Village
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Explorer Village
African Village
This area showcases the diverse wildlife of Africa, featuring both large and small land mammals like the towering African elephant and the tiny meerkat. It offers a genuine African safari experience.
To explore the park fully and know about all the villages and animals inside, click here!
Nearby attractions
Dubai Crocodile Park is home to thousands of crocodiles, including the Nile crocodile. This park focuses on conservation and education, allowing visitors to learn about these ancient reptiles in a safe environment. It features viewing galleries, breeding programs, and educational tours.
Happy Fun in Mushrif Park offers a variety of recreational activities for families. With vast green spaces, children's play areas, swimming pools, and barbecue spots, it's an ideal location for picnics and outdoor fun. The park also has adventure zones like rope climbing and zip-lining for thrill-seekers.
Desert Safari Adventures in Dubai provides an exhilarating experience of the Arabian desert. Activities include dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and quad biking. You can also enjoy traditional Bedouin hospitality with campfire dinners, henna painting, and live cultural performances like belly dancing and tanoura shows.
