Riyadh National Zoo is one of the most popular and favorite tourist attractions for families in Riyadh. It was opened in the late 1980s, and its popularity has only increased since then. It is locally known as Malaz Zoo. The zoo has more than 1500 animals and 80 species of birds that have different geographic origins. The administration has tried its best to preserve the natural wildlife environment as these animals are seen wandering freely in their artificially created habitats. Riyadh Zone is also one of the zones featured in Riyadh Season.
Attractions and Facilities
The highlight of the zoo is the train ride. There are two mini kids’ trains that take the children for a 20 minutes train ride and give them a tour of the zoo. Inside the zoo, you will get to see panthers, lions, tigers, gorillas, chimpanzees, elephants, crocodiles, zebras, giraffes, flamingos, and many more animals. The zoo also has the famous Bengal tigers that are native to the Indian subcontinent. You will find the African houbara in the zoo as well, a bird that is almost extinct in Saudi Arabia.
There is a prayer hall, restaurants, cafes, ice-cream outlets, and toilets inside the vicinity for the visitors. It is a great educational trip for the children where they can learn about animals while watching them in real life. Just before the zoo closes, you can see two harbor seals demonstrating their talents to get hold of food from their trainer.
Zoo Timings
Visiting the zoo is better during winters as in summers the weather is too hot, and the animals prefer to stay out of sight in the shade. The zoo closes at Maghrib prayers during weekdays and remains closed on Sundays.
