Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort: Conserving the desert - one of the world's last wild places

As part of the United Arab Emirates’ drive to set and achieve world-renown sustainability standards, the Al Ain Zoo is undergoing an extensive expansion and redevelopment; AldrichPears Associates is excited to be designing the interpretive experience.

His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan was a progressive environmentalist who recognized the profound connection of the people of Al Ain to the desert. He founded the zoo in 1968 to encourage both the preservation of natural heritage, and the intangible cultural heritage of his people, for today and for generations to come.

Committed to Sheikh Zayed’s legacy, president Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan pledged his full support and 2.6 billion dollars US to transform the existing zoo into the Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort (AWPR) –– an internationally respected wildlife park with a unique combination of world-class conservation and education facilities and recreational leisure experiences. The first phase of the projected is slated to open in 2010 with future phases scheduled for opening in 2012.

AWPR’s renewed mandate focuses on engaging local people, especially families, in natural immersive surroundings where they will discover the desert and the traditions of people living harmoniously with this place. The Park is divided into distinct areas, each with their own experiences: five distinct world desert zoos, a conservation and breeding centre, safari experiences and overnight safari encampments, as well as economic ventures including a resort hotel, retail development and residential homes.

With conservation in mind, this 800-hectare project is incorporating leading-edge technologies in sustainable design. Every building on site is designed to have lowest environmental impact possible. Retail and resort hotel development will provide economic support to the Park, ensuring that AWPR’s conservation and education facilities are maintained well into the future.

Guided by AWPR’s mandate, AldrichPears is focused on creating immersive, authentic exhibits that will foster a sense of pride in each of the Park’s visitors. Every aspect of the design reveals the desert as a vibrant place with thriving communities and resilient wildlife.

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