Al Ain Zoo has started construction work on three critical projects that it says will continue to support its initiatives for the preservation of endangered species, in line with the goals of Abu Dhabi Vision 2030.

The zoo's upgrade project includes the development of Elephant Safari, Gorilla Sanctuary, and Sand Cat Conservation Centre.

ELEPHANT SAFARI

Al Ain Zoo's African Elephant Safari will be spread across an area of 24ha. The facility will be divided into a safari area, shelters, sheds, an African-themed village, outdoor spaces for visitors, and African-style lounges.

Al Ain Zoo will also build an observation tower spanning 1.31ha that will allow visitors to enjoy the safari remotely.

Also to be developed within this scheme is the Lion Safari, which will connect Al Ain Zoo’s current safari with the proposed one for elephants across a 2.6ha area, including 2ha of back-of-house space.

GORILLA SANCTUARY

The 1ha Gorilla Sanctuary will be built as a tribute to the late gorilla named Lady, who spent more than 40 years at Al Ain Zoo.

As part of the project, the zoo will also construct indoor and outdoor exhibit areas and passageways reflecting the Western lowland habitat, allowing visitors to view the gorillas in their natural environment.

SAND CAT CONSERVATION CENTRE

Aimed at protecting and preserving sand cats and other local species, Al Ain Zoo will carry out improvement work on the Sand Cat Conservation Centre.

The centre's revamp will offer passageways and interactive areas spanning 706m2 for visitors.

Commenting on the construction projects, Omar Yousef Al Blooshi, director of marketing and corporate communications at Al Ain Zoo, said: "The three projects will be made available to visitors over the next two years and are primarily a reflection of the zoo’s vision for global leadership in wildlife conservation.”