Emirates Park Zoo in Abu Dhabi has become the first zoo in the Middle East to achieve accreditation from the US-headquartered Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), marking a significant triumph in pursuing excellence and animal welfare.
The milestone accolade positions Emirates Park Zoo as a global leader in the zoo industry, joining an elite group of zoological facilities worldwide that have earned exceptional AZA accreditation, often regarded as the gold standard in zoo management.
The rigorous AZA accreditation process, which takes place every five years, involves comprehensive evaluations across various facets of zoo operations, including animal care and welfare, veterinary programmes, conservation initiatives, educational programmes, and safety measures.
Thorough inspection
As part of the accreditation process, an AZA inspection team meticulously examines the facility and compiles detailed reports, which are then rigorously evaluated by the Accreditation Commission.
Dr Walid Shaaban, Director & CEO of Emirates Park Zoo, said: “I am proud of our team and their dedication to excellence at our zoo. Accreditation standards continuously evolve to ensure we achieve the highest standards for our animals and their well-being.
“At Emirates Park Zoo, we are proud of the valuable zoo experience we provide for our guests; from the breakfast with giraffes to the petting zoo, we have enabled animal interactions for everyone.
“This helps us to achieve our mission to promote appreciation of the natural world, wildlife education, and conservation awareness, and through this, we can help future generations to work towards saving wild species and spaces from extinction.”
Benefitting the UAE community
Dr Shaaban added: “This accreditation recognises the dedication of our team and partners in providing an incredible zoo experience for the UAE community.”
The AZA accreditation is a testament to Emirates Park Zoo’s dedication to maintaining the highest animal care and well-being standards while prioritising animal welfare, veterinary programmes, conservation efforts, education initiatives, and safety protocols.
Emirates Park Zoo is a leading zoological facility dedicated to the welfare and conservation of wildlife. The facility is situated in a picturesque environment and provides visitors with unique educational and entertaining experiences.
Representing more than 240 facilities across North America and overseas AZA is a nonprofit organisation that advances zoos and aquariums in conservation, education, science, and recreation.
