Riyadh Zoo is the largest zoo in Saudi Arabia, in the Al Malaz district of Riyadh. Locals also call it Malaz Zoo. It keeps well over a thousand animals, among them lions, tigers, giraffes, elephants and crocodiles, spread across six zones with landscaped grounds and shaded areas. A train ride of about 20 minutes covers much of the site, and children can feed birds or visit the petting zoo. It suits families and groups of friends who want a long day outdoors.
From a royal collection to a public zoo
The zoo opened in 1957 in Al Malaz, built by King Saud bin Abdulaziz to house animals that foreign countries had given as gifts. For its first decades it was a private collection kept for the king and his family.
In 1981 the original structure was demolished. A new zoo, designed by London-based consultants, opened to the public in 1987. It has been developed further since then, and it is now the largest zoo in the country. It draws around 600,000 visitors a year, among them school groups who come to learn about animals outdoors.
Animals and zones
The collection includes lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, monkeys and reptiles. Five white tigers can be seen together, which is one of the most talked-about sights. The African Savannah is one of the main exhibits.
The site is divided into six zones. The Aviary Zone has been expanded and holds colorful birds, among them the houbara bustard, a species that is close to extinction in the wild in Saudi Arabia. Croc Cave is the place to learn about crocodiles. The red panda has also been announced as a new arrival, the first one in the Middle East.
Activities for children
The Children's Petting Zoo lets young visitors get close to gentle animals, and there are playgrounds across the grounds. Bird feeding is one of the interactive options. Feeding sessions with giraffes and elephants have been part of the zoo's seasonal programs, so it is worth checking the website for what is running.
The train ride takes about 20 minutes and gives a view of large parts of the complex. Many families use it to break up the walk.
Getting around and facilities
The zoo is in Al Malaz, and the entrance, seating and parking lot are wheelchair accessible. There are free and paid parking lots and street parking nearby. On site you will find a cafe, a gift shop, a playground and gender-neutral restrooms, and guided tours are available.
The zoo is closed on Sundays, and on Fridays it opens in the afternoon. Opening times and tickets are listed on the official website, riyadhzoo.ncw.gov.sa.
FAQ
Where is Riyadh Zoo?
It is in the Al Malaz district of Riyadh. Locals call it Malaz Zoo.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
Booking in advance is recommended, and it can be done online. The official website is riyadhzoo.ncw.gov.sa.
What time should I arrive?
Arrive before 3 PM, because entry stops at that hour. Interactive activities finish by 4 PM, so an earlier arrival gives you more time.
Is there a train inside the zoo?
Yes. The train ride lasts about 20 minutes and covers large parts of the complex.
Is Riyadh Zoo suitable for young children?
Yes. It has a petting zoo, playgrounds, bird feeding and the train ride, and the zoo is wheelchair accessible.
