The well-known Dubai Zoo has the distinction of being the oldest zoo not only in the United Arab Emirates but in the entirety of the Arabian Peninsula. The zoo developed gradually into the expansive facility it is today. During the initial years of the zoo’s existence it was of modest size, consisting of only monkeys, some big cats and a number of hoofed herbivores, in addition to a modest aquarium with a few reptiles and fishes. Over the years, the facility has been gradually expanded and refurbished to become the major zoological showcase it is today. The Dubai Zoo draws a steady stream of inquisitive visitors every year.
Today, this popular zoological showcase boasts no less than 230 different animal species, which include about 248 distinct mammalian specimens. These fascinating creatures include lions, pumas, jaguars, hyenas, foxes, baboons, chimpanzees, monkeys, bears, deer, Barbary sheep, giraffes and porcupines amongst many others. Endangered species found at the establishment include such rare species as the cormorant or Socotra shag, gorilla, Bengal tiger, sub-varieties of the Arabian wolf and grey wolf, the Gordon’s wildcat and the majestic Siberian tiger.
The avian highlights at the Dubai Zoo include exotic creatures like the ostrich, golden eagle and a number of parrots. Additionally, the visitor will encounter no less than 200 reptilian species. The zoo is noteworthy for featuring and breeding animals indigenous to the Arabian Peninsula and other parts of the Middle East. Many significant development initiatives are planned for the zoo and it will shortly be relocated and redeveloped into a significantly different wildlife attraction, where the animals will be able to live in spacious enclosures which simulate their natural environment in the wild.
The Dubai Zoo is a unique attraction which is a popular leisure destination for families. Family members of all ages will be enthralled by the diverse variety of wildlife on display. Travellers visiting Dubai should make it a point to explore this popular visitor attraction. Well-informed travellers desiring a convenient Dubai hotel will find an appealing choice in the Copthorne Hotel Dubai. This attractive and centrally located Deira hotel Dubai offers comfortable accommodations and attentive service.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+