Qatar may not immediately come to mind when thinking of wildlife hotspots, but there's something truly captivating about exploring the hidden gems of its natural world. Beneath its modern skyline and sprawling deserts lies a rich tapestry of wildlife, both native and migratory, that thrives in this diverse environment. From desert-adapted creatures to rare migratory birds, Qatar’s wildlife offers a unique charm that’s often overshadowed by its glitzy urban reputation. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or a casual vacationer, Qatar promises extraordinary experiences in its stunning landscape. There are several wildlife parks and zoos in Qatar that not only highlight the country's incredible flora and fauna but also play a significant role in its conservation. From wildlife spotting to safari rides and outdoor activities, these spots make for a perfect day out with family and friends. Ready for an unparalleled wildlife adventure in Qatar?
7 Popular Zoos in Qatar to Discover Unique Arabian Wildlife
Qatar is not just about vibrant culture and modern architecture, but also offers an exciting mix of nature, wildlife and educational experiences. There are several parks and zoos in Qatar, housing a diverse range of animals, from exotic local wildlife to many endangered species from around the world. As many as 21 species of mammals, 352 birdlife, rare reptiles, and other familiar animals live on Qatar's land. The best time to consider a trip to Qatar is between November and early April, when the cool and pleasant weather is ideal for wildlife exploration and outdoor adventures.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the best zoos in Qatar that promise an enthralling experience:
- Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve
- Irkaya Farm
- Al Khor Park and Zoo
- Baladna Park
- Doha Zoo
- Al Wakrah Mini Zoo
- Camel Pen
1. Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve
Wandering where to kick off your zoo exploration in Qatar? Begin from Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve in Ash-Shahaniyah, one of the premier wildlife destinations in the country. Owned by the renowned Dosari family, this private zoo in Qatar is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers. This popular attraction provides a habitat for diverse species, including Qatar's national animal – the Arabian oryx. All the animals here are well kept considering their natural surroundings. While touring the zoo, visitors can learn about different species, their characteristics, life patterns, and behavior around local culture. Al Dosari Zoo Park in Doha, Qatar, is a popular place for an incredible safari experience and a chance to explore the wildlife up close. The reserve is divided into multiple sections with a wide range of activities to ensure an unforgettable day with your loved ones.
Location: C6QC+RW4, Ash-Shahaniyah 91042, Qatar
Distance from Doha: 44 km (a 36-minute drive via Dukhan Highway)
Visit Hours: 7 AM to 7 PM (Daily)
Contact: +974 44719632
Entry Fee: Free
Popular Species: Barbary sheep, Arabian oryx, Arabian wolf, Cheetah, Ostrich
Key Features: Diverse Flora and Fauna species, Safari Park, Amusement Park, Theatre Area, Exhibition Center with age-old artifacts
Nearby Attractions:
- Sheikh Faisal Bin Qassim Al Thani Museum
- Al Shahaniya Racetrack
- Al Samriya Estate
- Al Wabra Wildlife Preservation
- Dahl Al Misfir
Nearby Hotels:
- Al Samriya, Doha, Autograph Collection
- Al Rayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton
- Premier Inn Doha Education City Hotel
- Iebsayyer Resort
- Meridian Hotel
Nearby Restaurants:
- Zoufa Restaurant
- Afghan Restaurant
- Q DINE RESTAURANT
- mom's tea
- Hotn cool shahaniya
2. Irkaya Farm
Nestled in the middle of Qatar’s southern desert, Irkaya Farm (Irkhaya Farm) is one of the most beautiful and unexplored attractions in the country. Also referred to as Al Rakaya Farm, it is a heaven for photographers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers. The reserve homes 238 bird and animal species, including spiders, snakes and migratory birds. Dominated by the most dangerous species of reptiles, visitors need to take extra care of the crawlies while taking a tour of this zoo in Qatar near Doha. Additionally, the farm has many native species of plants, including least mallow, rocket, rabbit-foot grass, and wild mustard. The most amazing fact about Irkaya Farm is that it is visible from space through the satellite map. The fields comprise a sandy landscape, while the rest of the reserve features low limestone upland with sparse vegetation and boulders scattered around.
Location: 255H+2V4, Al Markhiya West, Qatar
Distance from Doha: 53.2 km (a 41-minute drive)
Visit Hours: N/A (Not ideal for families and children)
Entry Fee: Free
Popular Species: Arabian Horned Viper, Hooded Malpolon, Blue Pansy, Desert Monitor, Spiny-Tailed Agama, Yellow-Spotted Agama
Key Features: Dedicated educational and conservation programs, modern facilities with renovations
Nearby Attractions:
- Lake Karana
- Hassad Qatar
- Dahl Al Misfir
- Shrubby Sand Dunes
- Kindergarten Shamim Slurring
Nearby Hotels:
- Sand Dunes Resort
- Retaj Salwa Resort & Spa
- Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel By The Torch
- The Torch Doha
- AlRayyan Hotel Doha, Curio Collection by Hilton
Nearby Restaurants:
- McDonald's Woqod Oasis
- Al Karanah Restaurant
- MAWATER AL MANDI
- Nice Restaurant Mekaines
- Tamra Restaurant Retaj Salwa resort
Suggested Read: Places to Visit in Qatar for The Stunning Attractions
3. Al Khor Park and Zoo
Opened in 2010, Al-Khor Park and Zoo is amongst the most famous places to travel in Qatar for an unforgettable wildlife adventure. It is popular not only among wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers but also with families seeking a fun-filled day. Spanning over an area of 240,000 sq. meters, it is the largest zoo park in Qatar. Managed by the Ministry of Municipality and Environment (MME), the zoo has more than 315 animals from 49 different species living inside. Visitors not only get to watch these beautiful creatures as close as 1.5 meters but also indulge in a plethora of fun activities. Al Khor Park and Zoo is divided into a bird aviary, primates, an artificial lake with crocodiles, and a separate section for rhinos and giraffes. Moreover, the park premises feature well-maintained green parks, amphitheater, a mosque, a heritage museum, cafes, and a guest sitting area with fountains and waterfalls. The park, through several other facilities, offers an enjoyable experience, especially for families with children.
Location: Al Khor, Qatar
Distance from Doha: 54.9 km (a 48-minute drive via Al Khor Coastal Rd)
Visit Hours: 8 AM to 6PM (Daily) (Reserved for Women and Children on Tuesday)
Contact: +974 44265050
Entry Fee (Per Person):
- 15 QAR for Adults
- 10 QAR for Children under 10 years
Popular Species: Flamingos, Macau, Ethiopian Chickens, Chimpanzees, Gazelles, Zebras, Rhesus Monkeys
Key Features: Local wildlife conservation, Restaurant and food kiosks, Children's play areas, Basketball court, Skating area
Nearby Attractions:
- Al Khor Corniche
- Al Qarma Beach Garden (for Ladies Only)
- Al Sultan Beach Resort Mosque
- Al Shuaa Reserve
- Al Tawasul Traditional Park
Nearby Hotels:
- Queens Resort
- Tio Sea Resort (Previously Al Sultan Resort)
- Hleetan Wellness Resort
- Sir Khalifa Rest house
- 101 POOL HOUSE
Nearby Restaurants:
- Al Sultan Beach Resort Shisha Lounge
- Noora Cafe
- Tamil Nadu Restaurant
- 6 AM Espresso Lounge
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4. Baladna Park
Located to the north of Doha city, Baladna Park is yet another exquisite place to visit in Qatar for an unforgettable zoo experience. It offers visitors the chance to spend a day with animals and learn about the farm life of Qatar. The park has around 24,000 cows living in it. Other species housed at Baladna Park include mini kangaroos, royal peacocks, alpacas, giant turtles, emus, sheep, pigmy goats, and wallabies. The park is spread over 2.4 million square meters, which provides ample space for animals to move freely. The sports zone features various facilities like obstacles and an outdoor climbing wall, which make it among the most popular theme parks in Qatar for visitors to indulge in different fun activities. The zipline with hanging bridges is the most loved part here for those who want an adrenaline rush. Other activities include bungee trampoline, horse riding, archery, go-karting, and multiple-seater bicycle riding.
Location: North Road, Exit 44, Umm Al Hawaya, Doha, Qatar
Distance from Doha: 57.2 km (a 44-minute drive via Al Shamal Rd)
Visit Hours: 4 PM to 10 PM (Daily)
Contact: +974 44246000
Key Features: Animal spotting, Sports zone with fun activities, Learn about Farm Life
Popular Species: Camels, Cows, Mini Kangaroos, Royal Peacocks, Llamas, Ostriches, Zebras
Nearby Attractions:
- Al Khor Family Park & Zoo
- Skydive Qatar
- Al Bayt Stadium
- Corniche Al Khor
- Purple Island - Al Khor Island
Nearby Hotels:
- Hleetan Wellness Resort
- Tio Sea Resort (Previously Al Sultan Resort)
- A Murwab Resort, Semaisma
Nearby Restaurants:
- Yasalam Baladna Cafeteria
- Ottoman House Restaurant
- Panoor Restaurant
- Baladna Restaurant
- Shawkah Afandi
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5. Doha Zoo
Established in 1984, Doha Zoo is the oldest zoo in Qatar. This miniature animal kingdom offers a great opportunity to see some of the traditional animals and the region’s desert creatures. Just a short drive away from Msheireb Downtown Doha, this zoo near Aspire Park in Qatar houses more than 1500 animals from across the globe. It also has several facilities for families to enjoy a fun-filled day, including special play areas for kids. An expansion of Doha Zoo, the New Doha Zoo project (also known as Doha Safari Park), is being built on the same site. This new zoo in Qatar is supposedly seven times larger than the original one and will feature a special 'Africa Safari' section.
Location: 820 Furousiya St, Doha, Qatar
Distance from Doha: 15 km (a 30-minute drive via Salwa Road south)
Visit Hours: 8 AM to 12 PM, 3:30 PM to 8:30 PM (Daily)
Key Features: Animal Zone and Reptile Cove for wildlife spotting, Kids Adventure Land, Jumping Castle
Popular Species: Animal Oryx, Giraffes, Elephants, Baboons, Zebras
Nearby Attractions:
- Aspire Park
- Mathaf
- Qatar National Library
- Souq Waqif
- Katara Cultural Village
Nearby Hotels:
- The Torch Doha
- Al Aziziyah Boutique Hotel By The Torch
- DoubleTree by Hilton Doha - Al Sadd
- Premier Inn Doha Education City Hotel
- Millennium Hotel Doha
Nearby Restaurants:
- Golden Oryx Lounge
- Peshawar One Restaurant
- Char Eclectic Grill
- Baloch Modern Kitchen
- Bayt El Talleh Restaurant
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6. Al Wakrah Mini Zoo
If you are looking for a zoo in Qatar that is both fun and safe for small children to explore, then Al Wakrah Mini Zoo is your ideal destination. Located on the outskirts of Doha, this animal sanctuary promises a blend of adventure, entertainment, and the magnificence of nature. It houses exotic species of birds, grazers, fish, and farm animals, including those that are not native to Qatar. Animals are kept in separate cabins, families and children can easily interact with them without any fear. Here, visitors can see the fish swimming freely in their natural habitat from the bridge. For the best experience, consider visiting the zoo on a weekday. Due to large crowds over the weekend, Qatar zoo timings on Saturday are also extended to accommodate more visitors.
Location: Street 8،, Qatar
Distance from Doha: 34.4 km (a 31-minute drive via Al Khaleej/Salwa Rd and E Industrial St)
Visit Hours:
- Sunday – Thursday: 6:30 AM to 11 AM, 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM
- Friday: 3:30 PM to 7:30 PM
- Saturday: 6:30 AM to 11 AM, 4 PM to 8 PM
Entry Fee: Free
Key Features: Family-friendly spaces, Kids’ Play Area, Glass fish aquarium
Popular Species: Antelope, Flamingo, Fish, Arabian Oryx, Marabou Storks, Peacocks
Nearby Attractions:
- Wakrah Beach
- Shrubby Sand Dunes
- Al Wakrah Old Souq
- Mangroves Park Al Wakrah
- Villaggio Mall
Nearby Hotels:
- Souq Al Wakra Hotel Qatar By Tivoli
- Hyatt Regency Oryx Doha
- Gokulam Park Doha
- Al Mansour Park-Inn Hotel & Apartments
- Strato Hotel by Warwick
Nearby Restaurants:
- ALSEEB BBQ
- Danat Al Bahar BBQ Fish
- Mappillai Vilaas Restaurant
- Pampas
- Al Fanar Restaurant
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7. Camel Pen
Unlike other animal parks and zoos in Qatar, the Camel Pen in Doha offers a unique glimpse into the world of camels, which are a significant part of Arab culture. Located in the heart of the city. It is a must-visit for those who love animals and are keen on learning about these majestic creatures. Stroll through the zoo to spot more than 30 camels grazing throughout the day. Visitors can also enjoy camel rides for adrenaline rush and take photographs with them. Many events are also hosted at the Camel Pen throughout the year, which visitors can attend during their trip.
Location: 7GQJ+WP5, Al Jasra St & Abdullah Bin Jassim St, Doha, Qatar
Visit Hours: 24/7
Entry Fee: N/A
Key Features: Camel rides, Photo shoots with camels, Learn about camels and Qatari culture
Popular Species: Dromedary, Bactrian
Nearby Attractions:
- Doha Fort/Al Koot Fort
- Msheireb Museums
- National Museum of Qatar
- Al Bidda Park
- The Pearl Monument
Nearby Hotels:
- Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli
- Musheireb Boutique Hotel - Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels by Tivoli
- Fraser Suites Doha
- Central Inn Souq Waqif, Doha
- DoubleTree by Hilton Doha - Old Town
Nearby Restaurants:
- Bandar Aden Restaurant
- Desert Rose Restaurant, Doha
- Danat Al Bahar BBQ Fish
- Alkoot Café
- Harrods Tea Room
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6 Fascinating Wilds You Can Spot at Zoos in Qatar!
Qatar is admired for its beauty and spectacular wildlife. The country has a rare genus of animals, given to the land and climatic conditions. Although the species are rare, their incredibility is worth a gaze! Follow the list to check out a few of these spellbinding creatures.
1. Arabian Oryx
Arabian Oryx is a small antelope and the proud national animal of Qatar. The adorable straight horned animal with a beauty spot on its nose got extinct in the later ’90s but it has gone a long way of fighting its extinction and being reintroduced as wildlife, but it is still endangered.
2. Falcon
Qatar has 6 different kinds of Falcons; the Amur Falcon, Sooty Falcon, Lanner Falcon, Saker Falcon, Peregrine Falcon and the Barbary Falcon. For its sharp eyesight, it is often used as a hunting tool. It is a popular pet and associated with wealth and nobility.
Suggested Read: Falcon Souq: One Of A Kind Market Dedicated To Falconry
3. Desert Hedgehog
This adorable little munchkin also lives in the desert and if you are lucky enough you can catch its glimpse in one of the zoos in Qatar. Being a desert animal, it has to adopt eating habits as per the availability of food. From insects to scorpions, it can get its hand on any!
4. Spiny Tailed Agama
The Spiny Tailed Agama (also called Dhab in local language) changes colors according to its fluctuating body temperatures. During a fight, it defends itself with its muscular, rock-solid tail. It is strictly vegetarian.
5. Horned Vipers
The Arabian horned viper remains wide awake and active during the night. Its poison is fatal as its consequences can be seen within 100 seconds. And of course, who would not be captivated by the unique appearance of this horned snake!
6. Honey Badger
It is one of the most notorious desert animals that can attack anyone and anything for its survival. A fun fact about honey badger is that it is tireless in a fight and eats everything from honey to large poisonous snakes. The honey badger is among the few most intelligent species that can use tools as well for its escape.
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Qatar is a treasure trove of unique experiences for every traveler. Besides enjoying cultural exploration and the beauty of Qatar, you must not miss the amazing species of wildlife inhabiting the country. With the beauty of diverse animal life and its jaw-dropping characteristics, zoos in Qatar will bring out the hidden cameraperson in you. Here, not only do you enjoy a visual treat but also get a chance to indulge in immense pleasure and joy through different activities. If you are planning to visit one of these astounding spots, book from our bestselling Qatar tour packages for a memorable experience. Well, there is no harm in visiting all though!
Zoos in Qatar - FAQs
The best time to visit the zoos in Qatar is during the cooler months from November to early April. The weather during this period is mild and comfortable, ideal for outdoor exploration.
The Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve is home to a diverse animal species, including Arabian oryx, Arabian wolf, Barbary sheep, deer, ostrich, camels, emus, and cat species like cheetahs, tigers, and lions that can be spotted during the excursion of the park.
Visitors can do so many things at Al Khor Zoo Park, from spotting wildlife to having family picnics. The Park has an aviary, well-maintained green parks, a miniature golf course, a battery-operated train, cafes, sitting areas, a basketball court, a playground, and a skating area, which offer more than just a zoo experience.
Apart from the wildlife reserves and zoos, Qatar has many places that cater to the interests of every kind of traveler. Souq Waqif, the Museum of Islamic Art, Katara Cultural Village, the National Museum of Qatar, Aspire Park, and Pearl Island are some of the top attractions to see in Qatar.
Irkaya Farm is located about 53.2 km away from Doha city, which takes about 41 minutes to reach by car or taxi.
Yes, there are two zoos in Qatar where you can enjoy unmatched safari experiences. These are Al Wakra Safari Zoo and Al Dosari Zoo and Game Reserve.
Yes, some zoos in Qatar are family-friendly because they offer a variety of activities and educational opportunities for all age groups. Families can visit Al Khor Family Park & Zoo and Doha Zoo for a perfect outing.
You can visit Baladna Park any day of the week. However, the timings may differ for each day. From Sunday to Thursday, the park is open between 10 AM and 7 PM. On Friday, visiting hours are from 12 PM to 8 PM and 10 AM to 8 PM on Saturday. Kindly check the schedule before heading out to Baladna Farm.
Al Khor Park Zoo is famous for being one of the largest zoos in Qatar, which boasts incredible animal diversity, beautiful landscapes, and various family-friendly activities.
The best souvenirs to buy during your trip to Qatar are Traditional Al-Sadu weavings, Arabic perfumes, authentic Qatari dates, intricate handcrafted jewelry, incense and burners, and Dallah coffee pots.
