Explore the Riyadh Zoo

Established in 1957 as a private royal zoo, the Riyadh Zoo opened to the public in 1987. Today, the park sees roughly 600,000 visitors annually. Covering 164,000 square meters, the Riyadh Zoo is the largest and oldest park in Saudi. And in addition to animals, it features a wide expanse of green space, as well as beautiful views, which makes the spot particularly suitable for families. 

The Riyadh Zoo is a feast for the ears and eyes. Expect to hear the roaring of lions, the neighing of horses, the whimpering of elephants, the whistling of eagles and the chirping of birds. Kids may also safely come face to face with zebras, elephants, giraffes and a white lion.

One of the park’s visitors, Amr Al-Masry, notes the educational value of the zoo, as children are able to learn about the different sizes and shapes of animals. According to the director of the zoo, Dr. Ahmed Al Nasser, the park has logged a number of births of rare and endangered animals annually — including the first birth via a cesarean section of an animal in a Gulf country.

Perhaps even more exciting for kids? The zoo’s theatre, which features different dancing and singing animal characters. 

For those wanting to see more wildlife, Saudi has many zoos to visit, including the following:

The Al Taraf Model Zoo in AlAhsa features animals and birds and has an artificial lake that is home to various types of ducks. You’ll also find deer, lions and monkeys in addition to green space.

At the South Zoo in Abha, tourists can enjoy the mild weather in the summer, as well as the beautiful landscape (the zoo is surrounded by towering mountains). As for animals, expect sightings of tigers, lions, ostriches, deer, snakes and more in this park.

The Saihat Zoo in Dammam is characterized by its attractive design and provides a variety of recreational activities for adults and children as well as a wide range of animals, including crocodiles, hyenas, lions and tigers. Children can also ride horses or play on the playground; adults will love the artificial waterfalls and lakes.

When you visit the city of Taif, especially in the spring, you’ll find yourself in the middle of rose-growing territory, but you might also want to swing by the Taif Zoo. Although it is small, it is home to a large group of animals, including elephants and giraffes, three-legged camels and five-legged buffaloes, as well as dolphin and lion shows. 

Set on 30,000 square meters of greenery, the Al Kharj Zoo southeast of Riyadh features lions, tigers, leopards and bears. The park also offers quality bird sightings, including eagles, flamingos and many more. Children and adults can also enjoy games in the zoo’s amusement park.