Zoos in Saudi Arabia have extensively diverse flora and fauna that attracts a footfall of tourists. The zoos invite old and young alike and impart a valuable glimpse into the wildlife of Saudi Arabia. Tourists can watch numerous animals including the endangered species like Arabian leopard, Arabian oryx, Nubian ibex, sand cat and more. Further, the easy availability of delicious food and snacks, adventurous rides, vendor shops, etc., make these zoos a perfect picnic spot.
Top 8 zoos in Saudi Arabia
1. Riyadh National Zoo, Riyadh
Riyadh Zoo is the largest zoo in Saudi Arabia, and is home to more than 1500 animals and birds. The zoo in Riyadh offers a train journey that takes a short route covering most famous exhibits. The zoo has well-maintained cafes offering delicious food and drinks. There are praying halls for men and women, a 5D cinema, conservation centers, and much more. Before the closing time of the Riyadh Zoo Park, visitors also get to attend special animal shows where harbor seals showcase their wit and brilliance.
Location: Mosab Ibn Umair St, Al Malaz, Riyadh
Riyadh Zoo’s opening time: On Monday to Thursday, the zoo remains open from 8:30 am to 12 pm and 1 pm to 6 pm, and on Friday, it opens after Jummah Prayer to 6 pm. It is important to note that the timings are different for women, men, and families.
Entry fee: Riyadh Zoo ticket price for 12 years and above is SR 10.50, and for children below 12 years is SR 2.5
Top attractions: Animals including zebras, hyenas, Bengal tigers, camels, houbara bustard birds, Arabian oryx, griffon vultures, Arabian desert leopards, train rides, and 5D cinema
Must Read: Riyadh Zoo Guide: Location, Timings, Entry Fee, Nearby Attractions
2. Dammam Zoo Park, Dammam
The Dammam Zoo Park, or the Al-Homaid Zoo, is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dammam. The zoo has a diverse ecosystem of animals, birds, and fishes. Tourists can find exhibits of animals like crocodiles, hyenas, lions, tigers and more while circulating around the zoo. Further, the place is ideal for kids as it has a beautiful park for children with rides and games. The zoo has several seating areas and restaurants offering an all round experience.
Location: Dhahran Jubail Expy, Saihat, Dammam
Timings: The zoo in Dammam is open from 7:30 am to 12 pm and 2:30 pm to 8 pm, everyday (hours might vary, especially on Friday).
Entry fee: Dammam Zoo Park ticket price for 5 years and above is SR 10, and for children below 5 years, entry is free.
Top attractions: The zoo has a variety of animals, including lions, tigers, falcons, hyenas, foxes, monkeys, crocodiles, porcupines, ostrich, etc.
3. Taif Zoo, Taif
As Taif zoo is not very extensive, it serves as an ideal place for a family outing with kids and elderly. Additionally, the greenery in the place makes one feel closer to nature. The zoo has a variety of animals such as zebras, elephants, lions, and more. The zoo organizes dolphin and sea lion shows on a regular basis. It houses an amusement park for children with thrilling rides to keep them entertained. Various restaurants and fast food vendors are also located nearby the zoo in Taif, offering delicious meals.
Location: Alshifa Road, Taif
Timings: Monday to Wednesday and Saturday: 9 am to 12 pm; Thursday: 9 am to 1 am; Friday: 2 pm to 1 pm; Sunday, 3 pm to 1 am
Entry fee: The ticket price for 3 years and above is SR 15, and for children below 3 years, entry is free
Top attractions: Animals, including zebras, lions, five-legged buffalo, gigantic elephants, etc., amusement park, and the sea lion and dolphin show
4. Al-Kharj Park Zoo, Al-Kharj
The Al-Kharj Park Zoo combines the best of both worlds in one place: the serenity of green parks and the adventures of a zoo. It is one of the largest zoos in Saudi Arabia that is home to a plethora of exotic animals and birds. The zoo has an amusement park, a tourist resort, entertainment centers, swimming pools, and tents for the visitors. The gripping rides and lush grass make the Park Zoo one of the must-visit zoos in Saudi Arabia for family picnics and outings.
Location: Riyadh – Al Kharj Road, Exit 5, District Alafjh, Al-Kharj
Timings: Saturdays to Wednesdays: 4 pm to 12 am; Thursdays and Fridays, 4 pm to 1 am
Entry fee: The ticket price to the Al-Kharj zoo is SR 10. There might be a separate entry fee for the amusement park.
Top attractions: Animals and birds such as leopards, vultures, eagles, flamingos, rhinos, bears, tigers, etc., an amusement park, entertainment centers, swimming pools, and resorts
5. Al-Taraf Model Zoo, Al-Ahsa
This zoo in Al-Ahsa is a popular tourist destination for families and children. The quaint place has lush green gardens with various species of animals and birds. There is a game city for children with rides and electronic games. The terrain is full of greenery and serves as an excellent place for family picnics. After a long day at the Al-Taraf Model Zoo, visitors can re-energize themselves with exquisite meals available in restaurants and cafes.
Location: Al Tarf, Al-Ahsa
Timings: 9 am to 11 am and 3.30 pm to 9 pm, everyday
Entry fee: The ticket price is SR 15
Top attractions: Amusement area and animals such as lions, deer, Australian ostrich, crocodiles, monkeys, etc.
6. Asfan Zoo, Jeddah
The Asfan Zoo is a privately-owned zoo that is open to the public on prior booking. This zoo in Jeddah is well-maintained and is an abode to various wild animals, including monkeys, hyenas, deers, giraffes, zebras, porcupines, raccoons, etc. The zoo has relatively large exhibits for animals preserving their wild nature. Visitors can enjoy watching the animals at the zoo and organize picnics in the premises.
Location: Al Riyadh, Jeddah
Timings: Jeddah Zoo timings are from 6 am to 6 pm
Top attractions: Elephants, giraffes, zebras, raccoons, hyenas, monkeys, porcupines, flamingos, ostriches, emus, camels, kangaroos, snakes, other birds, etc.
7. South Park For Animals, Abha
Being surrounded by mountains in Abha, South Park For Animals is an excellent location to spend a day with friends and family especially with kids. The zoo is home to various species of animals like tigers, lions, ostriches, deer, snakes and more. The location has an expanding park, best for organizing picnics and playing along with kids. Further, there are numerous kids areas and restaurants for providing an all inclusive experience in Abha zoo.
Location: Route number 10 Qaradah, Abha
Timings: Saturday to Wednesday: 12 pm to 1 am; Thursday and Friday: 12 pm to 1 am
Entry fee: SR 20 for adults
Top attractions: Tigers, lions, deer, snakes and other reptiles
8. Al-Khobar Zoo, Khobar
Al Khobar Zoo is a small zoo consisting of a decent collection of animals and birds. It has a game city to entertain kids and adults alike. The animal park, gardens and amusement center have made this place one of the most popular zoos in Saudi Arabia. Further, one can also find numerous restaurants along with seating facilities near the zoo.
Top attractions: Animals including fox, deers, horses, hyenas, lions, monkeys and some exotic birds, and the gaming center
Zoos in Saudi Arabia are ideal for spending quality time with near and dear ones. These zoos help kids learn about the wild animals and bring them closer to nature. Most zoos have amusement parks that offer great rides and games that bring out the kid in everyone. Further, tickets of these zoos are highly affordable while ensuring maximum fun.
Suggested Read: Top 30 Tourist Places To Visit In Saudi Arabia
Zoos In Saudi Arabia FAQs
What is the train ticket price in Riyadh zoo?
The train ticket price for a train journey in the Riyadh National Zoo is SR 2.00 per person.
What is the best time to go to Asfan Zoo Jeddah?
The ideal time of the year to visit Afsan Zoo Jeddah is between January and March, as the weather is pleasant and cool during this period.
Is there any age restriction in Al-Kharj Zoo?
No, there is no age restriction. The Al-Kharj Park Zoo is open to all. It is important to note that women, men, and families have different timings for visiting the zoo.
What is the time for the Dolphin Show in Taif Zoo?
The Dolphin Show in the Taif Zoo starts after 5 pm.
Is there a parking space in the Al-Taraf Model Zoo?
Yes, there are parking spaces near the Al-Taraf Model Zoo.
