Al Ain Zoo, one of the UAE’s leading wildlife and educational destinations, has officially become a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA). This membership places the zoo among an elite global network of institutions dedicated to animal welfare, conservation, sustainability, and environmental education. This new milestone reflects Al Ain Zoo’s growing role as a regional and international leader in wildlife protection and sustainable practices.

A Global Recognition for Al Ain Zoo

Waleed Saeed Al Saeedi, the Managing Director of the Zoo & Aquarium Public Institution in Al Ain (ZAPIA), spoke about this achievement, saying, “This milestone reflects Abu Dhabi’s 2030 vision to protect biodiversity and natural heritage for future generations. It reinforces the zoo’s mission to advance wildlife conservation through research, species care, and public awareness, while strengthening the zoo’s standing as global leaders in sustainability and environmental stewardship.”

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Joining WAZA highlights Al Ain Zoo’s commitment to following global standards in caring for animals, conserving endangered species, and educating the public about the importance of protecting our planet’s biodiversity. It also connects the zoo to a network of leading institutions worldwide, which provides new opportunities for collaboration, research, and knowledge sharing.

The Role of WAZA Membership

Eng. Ahmed Eisa Al Harrasi, Acting Director General of the Zoo & Aquarium Public Institution in Al Ain, shared his thoughts on the membership. He said, “This is a proud milestone in Al Ain Zoo’s journey. WAZA is one of the most respected international bodies supporting institutions committed to animal care, education, and conservation. This membership also opens new opportunities for collaboration, knowledge exchange, and adopting best practices that will have a real impact on protecting biodiversity and advancing conservation efforts globally.”

Membership in WAZA is not only a recognition of Al Ain Zoo’s current efforts but also a gateway to future growth. The zoo will now be able to participate in international projects, share expertise with other leading institutions, and benefit from global research on wildlife conservation. This step ensures that Al Ain Zoo remains at the forefront of animal welfare, environmental education, and sustainable practices.

Appreciation for Community and Staff

Eng. Ahmed Eisa Al Harrasi also expressed gratitude towards the community, partners, and staff who contributed to this achievement. He said, “We extend our gratitude to our community, partners, and dedicated staff. This success would not have been possible without their support. It motivates us to advance further, ensuring Al Ain Zoo remains a regional and global beacon for wildlife protection and sustainability.”

The zoo’s success is deeply rooted in collaboration. From government support to local volunteers and international partners, every effort has contributed to creating a world-class institution that meets the highest standards of animal care and conservation practices.

Commitment to Education and Sustainable Tourism

Al Ain Zoo is not only a center for animal care but also a leading destination for educational tourism. The zoo offers engaging and discovery-driven learning experiences for visitors of all ages. By presenting wildlife in a natural and informative way, Al Ain Zoo helps visitors, especially students, understand the importance of protecting nature and biodiversity.

The zoo’s commitment to education goes hand in hand with its dedication to sustainability. It follows global standards in environmental management, ensuring that the operations of the zoo are as eco-friendly as possible. This includes careful planning of animal habitats, responsible waste management, water and energy conservation, and programs to promote public awareness about sustainable living.

Previous International Recognitions

The membership to WAZA is the second international recognition that Al Ain Zoo has received in 2025. Earlier this year, the zoo earned accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), which is considered one of the most prestigious benchmarks in the zoological sector. AZA accreditation is awarded only to institutions that demonstrate the highest standards of animal care, veterinary practices, conservation programs, and education.

By achieving both AZA accreditation and WAZA membership, Al Ain Zoo has established itself as a global leader in wildlife care and conservation. These recognitions not only validate the zoo’s current programs but also provide a framework for continuous improvement and innovation.

Advancing Wildlife Conservation

Al Ain Zoo’s mission goes beyond providing a safe and engaging environment for animals. The zoo actively participates in wildlife conservation programs, focusing on protecting endangered species both locally and globally. Through research, breeding programs, and collaboration with other conservation institutions, Al Ain Zoo contributes to the preservation of species at risk of extinction.

The zoo’s efforts also include public awareness campaigns. By educating visitors about the threats faced by wildlife and the importance of environmental stewardship, the zoo encourages responsible behavior and supports community participation in conservation activities. This holistic approach ensures that conservation efforts are not limited to the zoo but extend into the wider community.

A Vision for the Future

Al Ain Zoo’s membership in WAZA aligns with Abu Dhabi’s 2030 vision for protecting biodiversity and natural heritage. The zoo plans to continue expanding its conservation programs, adopting innovative practices in animal care, and enhancing visitor experiences through interactive and educational exhibits.

By remaining committed to these goals, Al Ain Zoo aims to be a benchmark for other institutions in the region and around the world. The zoo’s focus on sustainability, research, education, and global collaboration ensures that it will continue to make a meaningful impact on wildlife conservation for generations to come.

The inclusion of Al Ain Zoo in the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a historic achievement for the institution, the UAE, and the global conservation community. It highlights the zoo’s dedication to animal welfare, environmental sustainability, education, and global collaboration.

Through the support of the community, the efforts of dedicated staff, and partnerships with international conservation bodies, Al Ain Zoo continues to serve as a leading example of how zoos can protect wildlife, educate the public, and promote sustainable practices. This milestone reinforces its position as a trusted institution committed to a greener, more sustainable, and wildlife-friendly future.

Al Ain Zoo’s journey shows that with vision, dedication, and collaboration, it is possible to achieve excellence in conservation while inspiring the next generation to care for the natural world.