US$41 million expansion underway at UAE’s Al Ain Zoo

Abu Dhabi-based Musanada has started construction on four expansion projects at the Al Ain Zoo in the United Arab Emirates with the additions to include new areas for reptiles, elephants, gorillas and sand cats.

The AED152 million (US$41 million) development will include the new Reptile Park, Elephant Safari, Gorilla Sanctuary and Sand Cat Conservation Exhibit.

The 11,500 metre² Reptile Park will cost AED30 million and involves demolishing the current Reptile House, replacing it with a new building featuring indoor and outdoor exhibitions, including ‘Turtle Play’ and ‘Dinosaurs Among Us’. Exhibits will include crocodiles and Komodo dragons.

The AED93.5 million Elephant Safari will be a natural habitat for 15 African elephants with a natural safari exhibition on a 17.5-hectare area, connected to the current Al Ain Safari and the Lions Exhibition.

Musanada is also constructing the 8,725 metre² Gorilla Sanctuary for AED17.8 million. The existing building will be demolished to make way for new exhibition courts and wooded areas, as well as facilities for five female gorillas and one male.

In addition, the AED10.7 million Sand Cat Conservation Exhibit will also begin with the demolition of the current building. Musanada will then construct new exhibitions for sand cats and other night animals along with new visitor areas.

Al Ain Zoo’s expansion will also include the Al Ain Zoo Boulevard, with new F&B outlets and luxury retailing.

The Zoo is also planning a Hotel and Safari Resort, located in the African Safari area, as well as the Al Ain Nature Reserve and ‘Australia Koala Land’ – the first Koala exhibit in the region.

Images: New exhibits at Al Ain Zoo (top) and its planned resort (below). Courtesy of Musanada.