
Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre
Discover native UAE wildlife, including the Arabian leopard, in a conservation-focused mountain setting. Educational and family-friendly.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid midday heat, see more active animals.

Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre
Best Time
Avoid midday heat, see more active animals.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover native UAE wildlife, including the Arabian leopard, in a conservation-focused mountain setting. Educational and family-friendly.
"A wonderful spot for children to relax and learn about nature, both educational and fun."

🚗 Easy Drive from Dubai
About 1.5 hours from Dubai, making it a great day trip. Closed on Mondays!
💰 Affordable Entry Fees
Adults AED 15, kids under 12 FREE. Great value for money!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Arabian Leopard Encounter
Outdoor Enclosures
Spot the critically endangered Arabian leopard, a majestic symbol of the Hajar Mountains.

Indoor Exhibit Wonders
Indoor Exhibits
Get up close with fascinating desert dwellers like snakes, lizards, and scorpions.

Mountain & Desert Species
Various Enclosures
Discover 30 native species, including wolves, hyenas, and the graceful Arabian tahr.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Focus on Native Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Drive from Dubai
About 1.5 hours from Dubai, making it a great day trip. Closed on Mondays!
💰 Affordable Entry Fees
Adults AED 15, kids under 12 FREE. Great value for money!
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
Visit early or late to avoid extreme heat; indoor areas offer respite.
🚶♀️ Golf Cart for Exploration
Use the golf cart service to easily navigate outdoor enclosures.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Drive from Dubai
About 1.5 hours from Dubai, making it a great day trip. Closed on Mondays!
💰 Affordable Entry Fees
Adults AED 15, kids under 12 FREE. Great value for money!
☀️ Beat the Summer Heat
Visit early or late to avoid extreme heat; indoor areas offer respite.
🚶♀️ Golf Cart for Exploration
Use the golf cart service to easily navigate outdoor enclosures.
☕ Cafe with a View
Enjoy a coffee overlooking the gazelle enclosure.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre for its focus on native wildlife and educational value, especially for families. The reasonable entry fees and engaging exhibits are highlights, though summer heat can impact animal activity. Some wish for a wider variety of species or more extensive cafe/gift shop options.
"Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre, located in the stunning city of Kalba, offers an exceptional experience for nature lovers, families, and school groups alike. Nestled between the rugged mountains and pristine landscapes, this conservation area is a true sanctuary, where visitors can learn about local wildlife and environmental preservation in an engaging and educational setting.
The centre offers a unique opportunity for children to experience the wonders of nature up close. With its informative displays, interactive exhibits, and guided tours, Al Hefaiyah makes learning fun and accessible for all ages. Kids will be captivated by the variety of animals on display, including native species like the Arabian leopard and various birds of prey. The educational aspect of the centre is incredible, ensuring that the younger generation grows up with a strong understanding of conservation efforts and wildlife protection.
The staff at Al Hefaiyah are exceptionally welcoming and knowledgeable. They go above and beyond to create an enriching experience for visitors, answering questions, providing insights into the conservation work being done, and making everyone feel at ease. The entrance fee is very reasonable, with children under 12 entering for free. The special pricing for school and university trips makes this a perfect destination for educational outings.
With its breathtaking views, friendly atmosphere, and informative displays, Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre is a must-visit spot in Kalba. Whether you’re a family looking for a fun outing or a school group aiming to expand your knowledge on environmental preservation, this place has something for everyone."
Mallika Thapa Magar
"Great Place for Kids and Nature Lovers!
Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre is a wonderful spot for children to relax and learn about nature. It has a calm and clean environment with special species of animals that you won’t usually see. It’s both educational and fun – a perfect place for a family visit to explore wildlife and enjoy some peaceful time in nature. Highly recommended for kids and school trips!"
Vinek C
"Visited in July around 2 pm — it was really hot, and most animals were sleeping in the heat. I recommend avoiding summer afternoons. There’s an air-conditioned indoor area to see some animals, but others are outside. A golf cart takes you around, which makes it easier to explore."
Abdulhafid Hassan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The center is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Dubai. Follow signs towards Kalba. Many visitors use their own cars for this journey.
While public transport to Kalba is possible, reaching the center directly might be challenging. Renting a car or using a taxi from Kalba is recommended for convenience.
From Sharjah city, head towards Kalba. The drive is scenic and takes about an hour. The center is well-signposted once you are in the Kalba area.
Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre is located near Khor Fakkan and Fujairah, making it accessible for visitors coming from those emirates as well.
The center offers a golf cart service to help you navigate the outdoor enclosures, which is particularly useful during hotter months.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Adults typically pay AED 15 plus 5% tax. Children under 12 years old get free admission. School students pay AED 2, and university students pay AED 5.
The center is open from Tuesday to Thursday, 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM. On Fridays, it opens from 2:00 PM to 6:30 PM. Weekends (Saturday and Sunday) are from 11:00 AM to 6:30 PM. It is closed on Mondays.
During summer, the ticket office closes at 5:30 PM. It's advisable to arrive before this time to ensure you have enough time to explore.
Information on online booking is not widely available. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the center.
Yes, there are special discounted rates for school and university trips, making it an excellent educational destination.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The center focuses on 30 native mountain and desert species, including the Arabian leopard, wolves, hyenas, Arabian tahr, snakes, lizards, and scorpions.
Absolutely! It's a great place for kids to learn about nature and wildlife in a calm, clean environment. The indoor exhibits and educational displays are particularly engaging for younger visitors.
The center features both indoor exhibits with smaller creatures like reptiles and hedgehogs, and outdoor enclosures for larger animals such as leopards and wolves. Many indoor areas offer views of outdoor habitats.
While not explicitly stated as a daily offering, the knowledgeable staff are available to answer questions and provide insights, enhancing the educational experience.
The center is thoughtfully designed with shaded areas and viewing decks. A golf cart service is available for outdoor exploration, and indoor exhibits allow for close-up views.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cafe with large windows offering views of animal enclosures, such as the gazelle enclosure.
The cafe offers refreshments and is a pleasant spot to relax. While the menu might be limited, it provides a convenient option for visitors.
While not explicitly mentioned, it's generally advisable to check with the center's management regarding outside food policies. Picnic areas are not widely advertised.
Kalba city offers various local eateries and restaurants. You can explore these options before or after your visit to the conservation center.
The cafe is family-friendly and provides a comfortable space to rest. The views of the animals add to the dining experience for all ages.
📸 📸 Photography
The viewing decks and areas overlooking animal enclosures, especially the gazelle enclosure, offer great photo opportunities. The natural mountain backdrop is also picturesque.
Photography is generally allowed, but it's always good practice to be mindful of other visitors and avoid flash photography, especially near sensitive animals.
You can capture close-ups of native species like the Arabian leopard and tahr, as well as smaller reptiles and birds. The natural habitat settings provide authentic backdrops.
No specific restrictions are widely mentioned, but standard etiquette applies. Be respectful of the animals and other visitors.
Early morning or late afternoon light can be softer and more flattering for photography, and animals may be more active during these cooler times.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the animals, the educational aspect is strong, making it a fun learning experience. The availability of a golf cart service helps little legs navigate the outdoor enclosures, and the on-site cafe provides a convenient spot for a break. Visiting during cooler parts of the day is recommended to ensure the animals are active and the heat is manageable.
📚 School & Educational Groups
The combination of indoor and outdoor exhibits, coupled with knowledgeable staff, provides a comprehensive understanding of the region's biodiversity and the importance of protecting endangered species like the Arabian leopard. The center's focus on native animals makes it a relevant and impactful educational resource.
🌿 Nature & Wildlife Enthusiasts
The center's dedication to conservation and rehabilitation provides a deeper appreciation for the region's unique ecosystem. It's a place to learn about the challenges faced by local wildlife and the efforts being made to protect them, offering a more meaningful experience than a typical zoo visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conservation Efforts & Native Species
Among the 30 species housed here are Arabian wolves, hyenas, and the sure-footed Arabian tahr. The center's design emphasizes creating naturalistic habitats that mimic the animals' native environments, providing them with ample space and enrichment. This approach not only benefits the animals' well-being but also offers visitors a more authentic and educational viewing experience. The indoor exhibits showcase smaller, often overlooked creatures like various snakes, lizards, hedgehogs, and scorpions, highlighting the biodiversity of the region.
This commitment to local conservation makes Al Hefaiyah a significant site for ecological education. It serves as a vital resource for understanding and preserving the unique natural heritage of the UAE. The center's work is essential for ensuring that these magnificent creatures continue to thrive in their natural habitat for generations to come.
Visiting Experience & Amenities
For exploring the outdoor areas, a golf cart service is available, which is a thoughtful addition, especially for families or those who prefer not to walk long distances under the sun. This service makes it easier to access different viewing points and animal feeding areas. The center also boasts a cafe with large windows that provide scenic views, including overlooks of gazelle enclosures, making it a pleasant spot to relax and refuel.
While the center focuses on native species rather than a vast collection, the thoughtful design, educational content, and available amenities contribute to a rewarding visit. The reasonable entry fees and free admission for young children further enhance its appeal as a family-friendly destination.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit