Al Ain Zoo is hosting a summer camp packed with animal encounters, nature activities and outdoor fun for young explorers

Children can soon swap screen time for sand dunes, animal encounters and survival skills at the new summer camp programme at Al Ain Zoo. Called Legacy of the Desert, the camp is designed for young explorers aged six to 12 and promises a packed few days of outdoor fun, creativity and wildlife experiences. f you are already wondering how to keep the kids busy this summer, here is one idea worth bookmarking.

Al Ain Zoo

Image supplied

This is not your average summer holiday activity. One minute kids are learning about desert animals, the next they are getting hands-on with conservation activities, nature challenges and interactive games inside one of the UAE’s best-loved wildlife parks.

Al Ain Zoo says the programme is all about connecting children to the region’s natural heritage while keeping them active and curious during the school break. There is also a strong focus on teamwork, confidence building and outdoor discovery, which means children leave with more than just photos on a parent’s camera roll.

The setting itself adds to the experience. Spread across a huge natural landscape at the foot of Jebel Hafeet, Al Ain Zoo is home to hundreds of animals including Arabian oryx, giraffes, big cats and endangered species from across the region.

For parents trying to keep children entertained over the long summer holidays, this feels like one of those activities that actually gets kids away from tablets and into the real world. Dusty shoes, sun hats and stories about feeding animals included.

The camp costs Dhs 525 per child. Families registering siblings can receive discounts for up to three children.