Dubai Safari will close this week for almost five months of upgrades over the summer due to an increase demand.

Weeks after it was announced the park was switching hands from Dubai Municipality control to government developer Meraas, a closing date for the park has been announced for May 15.

Meraas then appointed Parques Reunidos, an experienced operator of animal parks, to oversee the day-to-day running of the destination in line with international best practices.

New engagement programmes and interactive experiences are part of the new additions that will greet visitors when the park reopens on October 1.

Park managers have said the improvements will include more climate control areas for animals.

“The upgrades seek to provide a better habitat for our animals, and a more interactive and educational experience for our visitors,” said a park spokesman.

Dubai Safari has had mixed reviews on TripAdvisor.

A host of five star reviews and praise for its affordable ticket prices are accompanied by more critical write-ups complaining some of the park is still under construction.

Other visitors wrote that they want to see tour guides and restaurants brought to the attraction.

The park has a strong focus on education and conservation of endangered species.

Situated on Al Awir Road on the outskirts of Dubai, will eventually be home to 5,000 animals within three years.

Spanning 12.8 million sq ft of keenly landscaped land, Dubai Safari is currently home to more than 2,500 animals.

Managers say the park is dedicated to ensuring the highest level of welfare for its animals while working to conserve endangered species through knowledge exchange, awareness programmes, sustainability initiatives and research studies.

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