Riyadh Zoo, located in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, offers visitors a unique wildlife experience with over 1,500 animals from around 196 different species, including endangered ones. Originally a private menagerie for King Saud bin Abdulalziz and the Saudi royal family, the 55-acre zoo was opened to the public in 1987. Its vibrant habitats provide a comfortable environment for animal residents, while educational exhibits provide insights into conservation efforts. The zoo is the largest and oldest zoo in Saudi Arabia, offering a delightful escape into nature and a glimpse into the world's diverse fauna. Families can embark on a wildlife adventure, immersing themselves in the vibrant habitats carefully designed for the comfort of the animal residents.
Riyadh Zoo: Embark on an Animal Adventure at Malaz Zoo
Step into Riyadh Zoo, where every visit unfolds a tapestry of animal encounters. A haven for wildlife enthusiasts, this vibrant sanctuary boasts diverse ecosystems and engaging exhibits. As you wander through lush landscapes, you'll encounter exotic species, each with its own unique charm. Seals, kangaroos, lions, monkeys, rhinoceros, reptiles, elephants, and camels are among the creatures on display in the zoo. You may also come across the endangered Saudi Arabian species houbara bustard, Arabian desert leopard, and Arabian oryx. Riyadh Zoo is not just a destination; it's a celebration of the enchanting tapestry of life that graces our planet.
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History of Riyadh Zoo: Explore the Wild Kingdom
Riyadh Zoo, established in 1957, was initially a private royal zoo of exotic wild animals for King Saud bin Abdulaziz, who received them as gifts to the Saudi royal family. So, if you see historically this place is as important as the other historical places in Riyadh. The zoo was later transformed into the Riyadh Zoological Gardens. The gardens were demolished in 1981 for a new public zoo in 1987, designed by London-based consultants Safari Parks International. By 1988, the zoo began receiving animals from countries like the United States, Peru, Australia, Singapore, Kenya, and Egypt, and sent two native sand cats to Cincinnati Zoo.
Today, the Malaz Zoo or Riyadh Zoo receives around 600,000 visitors each year that brings it among the most loved places to visit in Riyadh. The Riyadh Zoo is Saudi Arabia's largest and oldest park, covering 164,000 square meters. In addition to the animals, the park has a large amount of green space as well as excellent vistas, making it ideal for families.
Explore Riyadh Zoo: What to See and What to Do at Riyadh Zoo
The Riyadh Zoo Riyadh is a visual and auditory feast for people looking for the best things to do in Riyadh. You may expect to hear lions roaring, horses neighing, elephants weeping, eagles whistling, and birds tweeting. Children may also safely interact with the fascinating wild animals. The zoo houses creatures such as seals, kangaroos, griffon vultures, tapirs, hyenas, lions, monkeys, rhinoceros, gazelles, leopards, tigers, reptiles, elephants, and camels. You may also come across the houbara bustard bird, Arabian desert leopard, and Arabian oryx, which are all endangered species in Saudi Arabia.
Amr Al-Masry, a park visitor, emphasizes the zoo's educational importance, noting that youngsters may learn about the various sizes and types of animals. According to the zoo's director, Dr. Ahmed Al Nasser, the park has registered a number of births of rare and endangered animals each year, including the first animal delivery by cesarean section.
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Additional Information: Saudi Arabia's Oasis of Fauna
Are you planning to spend a day in and around the Riyadh Zoo, let me make your tour hassle-free. Read the below information to plan your trip accordingly.
Riyadh Zoo Location: Mosab Ibn Umair St, Al Ahsa, Al Malaz, Riyadh
Riyadh Zoo Timing: Monday - Saturday: 8:30 AM - 12:00 PM, 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Riyadh Zoo Open Time: According to the Visitor Category
- Days for Men
Monday: 8:30 am – 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Wednesday: 8:30 pm – 12:00 pm
- Days for Women
Tuesday: 8:30 am – 12:00 pm, 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Thursday: 8:30 am – 12:00 pm
- Days for Families
Wednesday, Thursday: 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Friday: After Jummah Prayer – 6:00 pm
Saturday: 9:00 am – 6:00 pm
Entry Fee:
- SAR 10.50 for those aged 12 and up
- SAR 2.5 for children under the age of 12
- SAR 2 for a train ticket at Riyadh Zoo
Best Time to Visit: November to March (Winter)
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Things to Explore Near Riyadh Zoo
Riyadh Zoo is a complete destination for spending a day with family and friends. When you are visiting the zoo, you may explore the inside amenities as well as the nearby attractions and facilities. Few of the best things to explore nearby Riyadh Zoo are:
- Restaurants in Riyadh: Zoo Grill Restaurant, Zaitoon Indian and Chinese Restaurant, The Sandwich Company, and Yauatcha Riyadh
- Attractions in Riyadh: King Abdullah Park, Kingdom Centre Tower, Masmak Fortress, Al Faisaliyah Centre
- Museums in Riyadh: The Saudi National Museum
- Malls in Riyadh: Localizer Mall, Nojoud Mall, Centria Mall, Central Deira Market
- Hotels Nearby Riyadh Zoo: Reef Al Malaz International Hotel by Al Azmy, Park Inn by Radisson Riyadh, Hayat Al RIyadh Hotel, Braira Al Wezarat
Nearest Airport: King Khalid International Airport
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Things to Remember While Visiting Riyadh Zoo
Undoubtedly, observing animals at the zoo is a visual feast for the eyes. To ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable visit, guests should bear in mind a few fundamental guidelines when at the zoo.
- Carry hats or caps for the sunlight
- Apply sunscreen before going to Malaz Zoo
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes
- Do not enter animals’ enclosures
- Feeding animals or bird is strictly prohibited
- Teasing animals or playing any type of music is prohibited
- Travelers should not litter anything anywhere
- Smoking is avoided within the premises
- Visitors should consider the signboards for directions
- One should cooperate with the staff
- Travelers should not carry their pet
- Keep an eye on children during Riyadh Zoo hours
- Visitors should purchase advance tickets to avoid queues
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As the sun sets on your wild adventure, Riyadh Zoo leaves an indelible mark on hearts, a mosaic of cherished moments in the heart of Saudi Arabia. From the regal stride of lions to the playful antics of primates, each visit to this vibrant sanctuary is a journey into the wonders of the animal kingdom. Riyadh Zoo isn't just a place; it's a celebration of life, an oasis of biodiversity inviting you to connect with the fascinating creatures that share our planet. So, pack your curiosity and embark on an unforgettable safari of discovery to the place where nature and magic intertwine with our Riyadh tour packages.
Riyadh Zoo FAQs
Riyadh Zoo typically opens at 8:30 AM and closes at 6:30 PM, but it's recommended to check the official website or contact the zoo for the latest schedule.
Entrance fees vary, with discounted rates for children and seniors. Below are the charges for the zoo:
- SAR 10.50 for those aged 12 and up
- SAR 2.5 for children under the age of 12
- SAR 2 for a train ticket at Riyadh Zoo
Riyadh Zoo is home to 1,500 wildlife of Saudi Arabia and the world belonging to 196 species, including lions, giraffes, elephants, primates, reptiles, and more than 80 bird species. The zoo aims to showcase a wide variety of wildlife.
Outside food is generally not allowed. However, the zoo has designated areas with food stalls and cafes where visitors can purchase refreshments. There are some outside cafes and restaurants too.
Yes, like many other attractions and zoos, Riyadh Zoo booking is also available online. Visit the official website for details on online ticketing to get rid of the long queue.
Known by its other name, Malaz Zoo, this is the largest and oldest zoo in Saudi Arabia, spanning 55 acres (164,000 square meters.) There are over forty animal species kept at this zoo, some of which are endangered.
Yes, the zoo provides parking facilities for visitors. Ensure you follow any guidelines or instructions provided by the zoo staff.
Photography for personal use is usually allowed, but it's recommended to check with the zoo staff. Certain exhibits are under restricted zones so taking pictures in these zones is prohibited.
