An off-the-beaten-path destination, Sharjah Desert Park is the perfect blend of a zoo, a botanical garden, and a museum. We have some great locations for animal lovers in the UAE (like the Abu Dhabi National Aquarium), but even then, we find this one to be an underrated find, especially for families. The park is split among different areas, which makes it easy to adapt plans to any combination of preferences. It’s also huge, so large crowds are harder to come by!
From Arabia’s Wildlife Centre, where you can find oryxes, stealthy cheetahs, desert birds, and many more, all the way to the Children’s Farm, a must-visit for families with kids, where children can feed and pet animals. There’s also a cafe, garden, outdoor play area for kids, as well as a picnic area. There’s also an indoor activity area for kids, where they can color and play.
Getting to Sharjah Desert Park
Location
Sharjah Desert Park is located 30km east of the city of Sharjah, near the Sharjah-Kalba Road. The park is easily accessible by car, and there’s plenty of parking available. If you’re coming from Dubai, depending on your location, it should take you around 45 minutes to an hour to get there.
Admission Fees and Operating Hours
We found Sharjah Desert Park tickets quite affordable when compared to similar experiences. Access to the Breeding Centre is not included in the price.
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (plus 13) | 20 AED + 5% VAT |
| Children (12 and below) | Free |
| School trips (per student) | 2 AED with reservation, or 5 AED without |
| University trips (per student) | 5 AED with reservation, or 10 AED without |
Sharjah Desert Park timings may differ depending on the season of the year; you can always double-check on the official website when in doubt:
Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Friday: 2:00 PM – 6:30 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 6:30 PM
Note:
- Desert Park Centre closes at 6:30 PM
- Last Ticket in Summer 5:30 PM
- Last Ticket in Winter 5:00 PM
Key Attractions
Natural History and Botanical Museum
A must-visit for curious minds, the Sharjah Natural History and Botanical Museum walks you through the history of the Arabian Peninsula. Exhibits range from fossil displays to interactive panels that explain the unique adaptations of desert flora and fauna. The botanical section features covers a lot of details about indigenous plants, so if you are the type to spend hours reading signs and information boards, this is for you. There are also some exhibits of fake animals that mimic real fur.
Islamic Botanical Garden
The Islamic Botanical Garden is truly unique; it showcases plants mentioned in the Quran and Hadith, which helps connect the dots between faith, history, and nature. It also goes over the traditional uses of these plants in medicine, cooking, and overall daily life.
Arabia’s Wildlife Centre
Arabia’s Wildlife Centre offers a rare opportunity to observe native species up close, from the majestic Arabian oryx to the playful desert fox. Indoor enclosures mimic natural habitats, ensuring comfort for both animals and visitors. Some exhibits are so dark (to respect the natural habitats) that you won’t even be able to see the animals in them. Remember not to use any flash photography to respect the animals!
Breeding Centre for Endangered Arabian Wildlife
While not open to the public, the Breeding Centre is a cornerstone of Sharjah Desert Park’s conservation efforts. It plays a critical role in protecting many of the endangered species through breeding programs, with a mission of contributing to the restoration of the population of many iconic Arabian animals.
Children’s Farm
The Children’s Farm is an area where kids can interact with domesticated animals such as goats, camels, and ducks. Your little ones can also ride ponies and camels for a nominal charge. It’s an engaging way for young visitors to learn about traditional Emirati farming practices while enjoying hands-on experiences with friendly animals.
Sharjah Desert Park: A Hidden Gem Worth Exploring
If you’re looking for a destination that blends education, fun, and tranquility, Sharjah Desert Park delivers on all fronts. From the Arabia’s Wildlife Centre, where you can see oryx and cheetahs up close, to the Children’s Farm for hands-on animal interactions, the park offers something for everyone. The affordable entry fees and family-friendly facilities make it an accessible and worthwhile day out. A must-visit for anyone seeking a unique and enriching experience in the UAE!