Introduction
In the center of Sharjah Desert Park, you will find the Arabian Wildlife Center, an exclusive attraction in the United Arab Emirates. The fantastic facility provides a profound understanding of the indigenous wildlife of the Arabian Peninsula and, in a way, mediates between life in the city and the natural beauty of the region. Being a tourist or a student, or a resident who might want to learn more about the things he or she can see around, the Arabian Wildlife Centre is intended to be visited.
Mission and Vision
The main aim of the centre is to offer knowledge in respect of the abundant biodiversity of the Arabian desert in order to create an appreciation and comprehension of the local flora and fauna. It is a conservation centre, a source of education, and a tourist hub not only for the locals but also for tourists. Ethical components and scientifically produced sets promote the safety of the wildlife and the vulnerability of the desert life at the center.
Location and Accessibility
Geographical Location
The wildlife center of Arabia is about 28 km towards the direction of Sharjah city, near the small town of Al Bataeh, off Al Dhaid Road (E 88), Interchange 9. It is located in the sprawling Sharjah Desert Park that features other commendable attractions, including the Natural History Museum, Islamic Botanical Garden, and the Children’s Farm.
Getting There
The visitor is able to access the center with ease using a personal vehicle, and the site has several parking places. There are a few options for using public transport, but one can easily reach it using taxis and ride-hailing apps such as Careem and Uber, both of which connect Sharjah, Dubai, and the surrounding regions.
Must Visit: Muwaileh Bus Terminal Sharjah
Parking and Facilities
The visit is comfortable even for those of different ages and needs; a big parking lot awaits visitors, and the premises can be approached with the help of wheelchairs. It also has clean bathrooms, waiting areas with shades, and refreshment stalls.
Public Transport Options
Mode of Transport | Route | Approximate Fare |
Public Bus | Sharjah to Al Dhaid (Route 116) | AED 10 – 15 |
Taxi | Sharjah to Desert Park | AED 70 – 90 |
Visiting Information
Opening and Closing Times
Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
Sunday | 09:00 AM | 05:30 PM |
Monday | 09:00 AM | 05:30 PM |
Tuesday | 09:00 AM | 05:30 PM |
Wednesday | 09:00 AM | 05:30 PM |
Thursday | 09:00 AM | 05:30 PM |
Friday | 02:00 PM | 05:30 PM |
Saturday | 11:00 AM | 05:30 PM |
Ticket Pricing
Category | Ticket Price (AED) |
Adults | 15 |
Children (under 12) | 5 |
Children (under 2) | Free |
Schools and Educational Groups | Discounted/Free |
Main Attractions and Thematic Zones
Indoor Air-Conditioned Layout
The Wildlife center in Arabia is completely air-conditioned and covers the entire place with treated conditions so that the visitor is able to enjoy it in any season. The center is divided into some thematic zones that relate to different ecological situations and the range of animal life throughout the Arabian Peninsula.
Reptiles, Amphibians, and Insects Zone
Fascinating Creatures
The tour is initiated by the reptile and insect area that provides a variety of species, including:
- Horned Arabian viper
- Saw-scaled viper
- Monitor lizard
- Chameleons
- Camel spiders
- Scorpions
- Blind cavefish
The desert is an important source to learn more about desert procedures and the way that even the tiniest creatures are important contributors to ecological ponder.
Must Visit: Rolla Mall Sharjah
Bird Aviary
An Immersive Wadi-Style Environment
The aviary is a walk-through and open space shaped as a desert wadi. The birds are set to fly freely, and visitors have a feel of what it is like to have birds freely fly. Spotted species:
- Houbara bustards
- Indian rollers
- Sand partridges
- Owls and eagles
- Waterfowl and the flamingos
The environment emulates the natural habitats of water and rocky terrains that provide guests with a comfortable habitat and the birds with a natural habitat that gives bird watchers a natural feeling of watching the Arabian birds.
Nocturnal and Small Mammals Section
Reversed Daylight Systems
In this section, there is a vertical cycle of lights so that one may observe night animals during the daytime. Animals include:
- Sand cats
- Caracals
- Foxes (e.g., Blanford’s fox)
- Porcupines
- Hedgehogs
- Mongoose
- Rodents
Other actions that tourists get to know about Burrowing, foraging, and nocturnal hunting behavior, are essential in survival in severe desert environments.
Large Carnivores and Primates
Captivating Predators and Social Mammals
This area displays one of the most elegant and threatened animals of this area in large and natural habitats with admission windows. These important species are:
- Arabian leopard (critically endangered)
- Striped hyena
- Arabian wolf
- Cheetah
- Hamadryas baboons
The focus is to conserve, and the enclosures are made to allow some form of natural behavior alongside animal welfare.
Ungulates and Herbivores
Graceful Grazers of the Desert
The exhibit is an inside affair with an outdoor theme and will talk about herbivores that live in the desert, like
- Arabian oryx
- mountain and sand gazelles
- Nubian ibex
- Ostriches
Conservation panels show success stories on how species such as the Arabian oryx were put back in the wild.
Educational and Recreational Programs
Guided Tours
At the Centre, those interested can visit it under a guided group tour, as well as a tour by tourists, and through a tour within a company or organization. These tours are made to suit the needs of the group.
Workshops
Conservation, biology, and sustainability educational workshops are regularly organized.
Interactive Displays
Virtual and tangible exhibits help kids and grown-ups to study animal footprints, food, and dangers to the environment.
Importance of the Arabian Wildlife Center
Wildlife Conservation
The Centre works around the AEE biodiversity strategy through rescuing, breeding, and releasing the animals.
Environmental Awareness
The tourists go home with a new grasp of the importance of the balance of the environment so as to continue with life.
Tourism and Economy
The center is an exclusive tourism asset of Sharjah, and it contributes to enhancing ecotourism.
Best Time to Visit
Visits should be done between October and November or February and March, when it is a bit cooler in the UAE. The weekdays are not so crowded, Ed, and it can be a quieter and more personal experience.
Facilities and Amenities
Facility | Availability |
Restrooms | Yes |
Prayer Rooms | Yes |
Parking | Free |
Wheelchair Access | Available |
Cafeteria/Café | Yes |
Gift Shop | Yes |
Nearby Attractions
Sharjah Desert Park
The Arabian Wildlife Centre is part of the larger Sharjah Desert Park, which also includes:
- The Natural History Museum
- The Botanical Museum
- The Children’s Farm
Al Dhaid City
- Just a short car ride away in Al Dhaid, you can visit traditional towns, markets, and farms.
Visitor Tips
- Be prepared to walk in comfortable shoes.
- Don’t visit the fort during midday hours in the summer.
- You should also plan at least 2-3 hours to visit the entire centre
- Water and sunscreen should be carried—especially if you will be visiting the outdoor parts.
- Photography is allowed, but no flash in indoor exhibitions.
Contact Information
Department | Details |
Phone Number | +971 6 531 1999 |
info@epaa.shj.ae | |
Official Website | www.epaa.shj.ae |
Location on Google Maps | Arabian Wildlife center, Sharjah Desert Park |
Conclusion
The Arabian wildlife center is not only a zoo; it is an educational, conservation, and cultural center where people can get to know more about the natural wealth of the Arabian Peninsula. It promotes understanding and appreciation of the wildlife by the visitors with a well-kept exhibition in a project and a strong belief in the sustainability of the environment. As a single traveler, a family on a holiday, or a teacher, you will find the center to be a great experience to gain knowledge, along with adventure. Do not miss an opportunity to walk through this oasis of natural heritage the next time you visit Sharjah.
Last modified: July 24, 2025