You may think a party at the zoo would be too much trouble, but not at Emirates Park Zoo in Abu Dhabi. Designed for kids to learn more about animals, it’s home to hundreds of species living in its Petting Zoo, Bird Park, Snake Alley, Flamingo and Giraffe Parks, Wildlife Walk, Reptile House, Primate Parade, and The Aquarium. From camels and ostriches to leopards and gazelles, there’s just so much to see.
The zoo also has a resort hotel, where you can stay in a chalet or room, and discover the magnificient wildlife – think tigers, elephants and jaguars just steps away from your abode, plus a kids’ pool with slides and waterfalls. It also runs educational shows for children to learn more about the animals.
For hungry kids there are several dining outlets serving everything from Oriental cuisine to café fare, which you can eat with the parrots. There’s no better place for a party.
Open Sun-Wed 9am-8pm; Thu-Sat, 9am-9pm. Emirates Park Zoo, Al Bahia, Abu Dhabi (02 501 0000).
As for the food…
You can reserve Pearl, Bee or Giraffe Café for Dhs150 per hour and Dhs200 per hour for Giraffe Café’s upper deck. Food is Dhs20 per child and includes hamburgers or nuggets, fries and juice. The buffet starts from Dhs60 per child and Dhs90 per adult. A minimum 20 children or adults is required.
Package one
Valid for a minimum of 15 kids, this package gives you a zoo entrance ticket, a private zoo tour with a guide, an animal-feeding experience and an animal show.
Free (birthday boy or girl and parents), Dhs75 (per child), Dhs45 (per additional adult).
Package two 
Valid for a minimum of 15 kids, this package includes zoo entry, a private zoo tour with a guide, an animal-feeding experience and a choice of three activities.
Free (birthday boy or girl and parents), Dhs75(per child), Dhs45 (per additional adult).
Extra activities 
Extra activities and services include an African drumming session, private magic show, reptile handling, face-painting an animal ride and more. You can also rent an animal for your own party!
From Dhs15 (animal ride).
