Sharjah Desert Park, also known as Sharjah Zoo, is a large edutainment complex in the Seih Al-Masmout Reserve, about 28 to 30 km east of Sharjah city along Al Dhaid Road. It was established in 1995 as a conservation centre for the region’s endangered plants and animals, and it has since grown into one of the best family attractions in Sharjah.
The park is split into four venues under a single entry ticket: the Arabian Wildlife Centre, the Natural History Museum, the Botanical Garden, and the Children’s Farm. It’s fully indoor and air-conditioned in most sections, which makes it one of the easiest places to visit even during Sharjah’s hottest months.
Sharjah Desert Park Timings 2026
The park is closed every Tuesday, so plan around that if you’re mapping out a Sharjah itinerary. Plan for 4 to 5 hours if you want to see all four venues without rushing.
Ticket Prices & Entry Fees
One ticket covers all four venues, so there’s no need to pay separately for the museum, the wildlife centre, the botanical garden, or the children’s farm. Buying online in advance can help you skip the queue on busy weekends.
Arabian Wildlife Centre
This is the park’s main highlight and the only “zoo” in the UAE where native Arabian species are shown in something close to their natural desert habitat. Expect to see the Arabian Oryx, the UAE’s national animal, along with the Arabian leopard, desert foxes, cheetahs, and a variety of reptiles and birds. It also runs as a breeding and rescue centre for endangered wildlife, though the breeding facility itself isn’t open to the public. Most of the centre is indoor and air-conditioned, with an open walk-through bird sanctuary area as well.
Natural History Museum
The museum covers the story of Sharjah and the wider Arabian region through five main halls:
- Discover Sharjah: The different habitats found from the East Coast to the West Coast of the emirate.
- A Walk Through Time: An audiovisual journey from the Big Bang to the present day.
- Beautiful Arabian Flora: Gardens and displays of native Arabian plants.
- The Living World: A look at microorganisms and their role in nature.
- Underwater World: Replicas of marine life found in the region’s waters.
Photography isn’t permitted inside most of the museum halls, so it’s worth simply taking your time and enjoying the exhibits rather than trying to film everything.
Botanical Garden & Children’s Farm
The Botanical Garden is a peaceful, green section of the park with a mix of Arabian and tropical plants, including a dedicated Islamic garden featuring plants mentioned in the Holy Quran. The Children’s Farm is where kids get to pet and feed domestic animals like goats, camels, horses, and donkeys, with staff supervision and hand-washing stations nearby.
Facilities & Visitor Rules
- Two small cafes and a panorama-style restaurant with views over parts of the wildlife centre.
- Free parking on site.
- Wheelchair and stroller accessibility throughout the museum.
- Photo ID may be requested at entry, and modest clothing is recommended.
- Outdoor smoking areas are permitted; smoking is not allowed indoors.
- Pets are not allowed anywhere inside the park.
- Outside food can be brought in and enjoyed in the designated picnic area.
Location & Getting There
Sharjah Desert Park sits along Al Dhaid Road (E88), Interchange 9, roughly 28 to 30 km from Sharjah city centre.
- By car or taxi: The most direct way to reach the park, whether you’re coming from Sharjah, Dubai, or the airport. Take Al Dhaid Road and exit at Interchange 9.
- Driving time: Roughly 30 to 40 minutes from central Sharjah or Dubai, depending on traffic.
Nearby Attractions
- Al Aweer Crash Site: A mysterious plane wreckage site about 30 km from the park, popular with curious travelers.
- Sharjah city centre: Home to museums, souks, and the Sharjah Corniche, about 30 minutes away.
What Visitors Say
Visitors regularly describe the Arabian Wildlife Centre as far bigger and better than they expected, calling it a real treat for kids who love animals, with the on-site restaurant’s panoramic view as a nice bonus.
A zoo professional with decades of experience visiting wildlife parks worldwide singled this one out for its genuine focus on conservation, education, and animal welfare, calling it among the best collections he’s seen.
Many reviewers highlight how well-kept the grounds are, with lush green lawns around the museum, an easy walk between sections, and a children’s farm that keeps younger kids engaged for hours.
Several visitors recommend it specifically as a summer activity, since almost the entire experience is indoors and air-conditioned, making it comfortable even when it’s scorching outside.
Insider Tips for Your Visit
- Check the day of the week before you go, since the park is closed every Tuesday.
- Visit in the morning, especially in summer, since most walking between venues is outdoors.
- Bring a light jacket for the air-conditioned indoor halls if you’re visiting in peak summer heat.
- Set aside a full half-day if you want to comfortably see all four venues.
- Book tickets online in advance during weekends and public holidays to avoid queues.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to enter Sharjah Desert Park?
Entry is AED 15 for adults and children 12 and older, and free for children under 12. One ticket covers all four venues.
What are Sharjah Desert Park’s opening hours?
The park is open 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM Saturday to Wednesday, 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM on Thursday, and 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM on Friday. It’s closed every Tuesday.
Is Sharjah Desert Park the same as Sharjah Zoo?
Yes, Sharjah Desert Park is commonly known as Sharjah Zoo, and its Arabian Wildlife Centre functions as the zoo section of the complex.
How far is Sharjah Desert Park from Sharjah city?
It’s about 28 to 30 km east of Sharjah city, along Al Dhaid Road (E88) at Interchange 9, roughly a 30 to 40 minute drive.
Is Sharjah Desert Park good for summer visits?
Yes. Most of the park, including the Arabian Wildlife Centre and Natural History Museum, is indoor and air-conditioned, making it a comfortable option even in peak summer heat.
Are pets allowed at Sharjah Desert Park?
No, pets are not permitted anywhere inside the park.