As Dubai Safari Park prepares to reopen for its sixth season on October 1, Khaleej Times had the opportunity to preview the park and its new inhabitants. The park now showcases over 3,000 animals from 87 diverse species, blending entertainment with educational experiences. Visitors can explore several themed zones either on foot or via a shuttle train, each offering close encounters with wildlife and educational activities that highlight animal welfare and conservation.
One of the standout zones is the African Village, which provides a taste of the continent. This area features some of the world’s largest and smallest land mammals, including the majestic African elephant and the playful meerkat. Guests had the chance to feed carrots and apples to the elephants and even shower them to help cool off in the heat. “It’s incredible to see the elephants up close and interact with them,” said one enthusiastic visitor. “Feeding them was so rewarding!”
The tour then moved to the Explorer Village, home to the Safari Village drive-through, where guests can embark on a journey through Africa and Asia in comfortable buses. Here, visitors got a close-up look at the cheetah, the fastest land mammal. “Cheetahs can reach their top speed in just a few seconds, but they can only maintain it for about 30 seconds before needing to rest. Their unique physique, with long legs and a slim body, is designed for speed,” explained the guide as the cheetah gracefully darted across its habitat, eliciting gasps of awe from the onlookers.
Jan, one of the tour guides, remarked, “We encourage visitors to explore the park freely. There’s so much to see and learn about each species.” Another guide, Adateika, added, “Our live presentations allow guests to connect with the animals in a meaningful way, fostering a deeper appreciation for wildlife.”
As visitors continued through the park, they were treated to sights of various stunning species, including the majestic Bengal tigers. “These tigers are not just beautiful; they’re incredible swimmers and adapt well to their environment,” explained one guide. Other themed zones include the Asian Village, influenced by the ornate architecture of Asia, and the Arabian Desert Safari, a drive-through attraction that brings the historic nomadic vibes of the Arabian Peninsula to life.
The Kids Farm allows children to meet some of the park’s cutest and friendliest animals, while the Wadi Area, known as “The Valley,” offers a relaxing environment for picnics and dining in two on-site restaurants. Additionally, visitors will soon have the chance to participate in a naming event for the park’s new moon bears and the white rhino calf. As part of the grand reopening festivities on October 1, guests will be invited to suggest names for these adorable newcomers, allowing them to become part of the park’s ongoing conservation narrative.
