Al Ain Safari

Magnificently positioned against the imposing backdrop of Jebel Hafeet, and a majestic finger-like extension of the rugged Hajar Mountains, the ground-breaking Al Ain Safari is being masterfully crafted out of the desert environment to incorporate its pristine surrounds. The full Safari will cover 217 hectares of land along the base of the mountain range. On the 20th of April 2016, the first section of Al Ain Safari was opened, called the African Safari, which at 54.5 hectares is already one of the world’s largest man-made Safaris. It has become a continuously evolving natural home to a diverse range of native African animal and plant species including White Rhino, Giraffe and African Lion.

THE EMIRATI SAFARI GUIDES

The overall safari experience is uniquely distinct, primarily because it is being driven by a passionate team of Emirati Safari Guides constantly enriching their own knowledge of the Safari ecosystem. This special element adds an infusion to the safari experience, which accentuates the local tradition of warm sophisticated hospitality and draws on an unrivalled passion for the UAE's proud heritage and future vision. Discerning guests and experienced safari goers will especially find this aspect a key differentiator from other safari offerings around the world.

THE SAFARI ANIMALS

The Al Ain Safari is a journey of natural discovery that captivates the imagination of its visitors, both young and old. Guests may encounter iconic BIG 5 animals like African lion and white rhino and they may even get to feed a giraffe. Importantly they will also have a chance to learn from their Safari Guides about the fascinations of lesser known, yet no less intriguing and distinct species like the charismatic Zebra, ungainly Wildebeest or the elegant Springbok gazelle. The majestic Sable Antelope, magnificent Kudu and the world's largest bird, the Ostrich, are also among many favourite animal discoveries. The sheer diversity of animals present (ungulates in particular) is virtually unparalleled, presenting guests with a unique opportunity to view Africa’s foremost species in a largely unchecked environment that closely resembles a wild safari area in Africa.

CONSERVATION 

Among the animals that take up residence on the safari area, there are some that are critically endangered or locally extinct in the wild, such as the Scimitar Oryx and the Addax. In accordance with the vision of the UAE's founding father, Sheikh Zayed, Al Ain Safari thus plays a prominent role in the conservation of these and other key species. In so doing the specially tailored safari environment sets a benchmark for future conservation projects in the region. Similarly, it educates guests who visit and take part in the safari about the importance of preserving wild species for future generations. Guests who have never been on a genuine safari journey before are able to learn to appreciate the wonders of nature and the beautiful, yet unpredictable aspects it offers up each day, all reminiscent of a timeless era far-gone from the traps of modern day life.

A SPECIAL FLAVOUR

It, therefore, holds that the Al Ain Safari, championed by the pride of its local Emirati custodians, conveys to and involves its guests in an enthralling story of close encounters with nature within a safe practical learning environment set against a background of UAE heritage and vision, all underpinned by a powerful conservation ethos. Guests to the safari have so much to behold in a single experience leaving them yearning to return for more. The safari also blends seamlessly with the existing Zoo, Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, as well as other current and future Al Ain Zoo attractions.