English
العربية
Discover The Green Planet, an indoor zoo and garden in Dubai's City Walk area. With over 3,000 plants and animals in a stunning bio-dome, this tropical paradise is a must-visit attraction. Learn about its unique features, diverse wildlife, and conservation efforts. Opened in 2016, this attraction is a testament to Dubai's commitment to blending modernity with nature.
The Green Planet: A Tropical Oasis
The Green Planet boasts an impressive collection of over 3,000 plants and animals. Situated within its artificial tropical rainforest, it provides a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of the natural world in a controlled environment. The key highlights of this captivating destination are as follows:
The Bio-Dome Wonder
The bio-dome structure is a masterpiece in itself, standing proudly as an expansion of CityWalk on Al Wasl Road. Covering a vast 60,000 square feet, the building is a visual marvel. Its exterior is divided into two distinct parts: one cylindrical with glass panels and the other adorned with small circular apertures, allowing natural light to filter through, creating a mesmerizing ambiance.
At the heart of the bio-dome stands an awe-inspiring 82-foot tall tree with an artificial trunk. A small bridge connects to this tree, offering a unique vantage point to observe the lush surroundings. However, this bridge can only accommodate up to four people at a time, making it an exclusive experience. The bio-dome is further enhanced by an enchanting artificial waterfall that adds to the overall tropical atmosphere.
The Journey Within
Visitors to The Green Planet begin their adventure on the fourth floor via a lift. From there, they embark on a captivating journey, descending through the bio-dome using a spiral slope. For those who prefer a more traditional approach, a lift and stairs are also available to access the basement level.
As you explore each level, you'll encounter reptiles on display, with informative exhibits providing insights into these fascinating creatures. From slithering anaconda snakes to the graceful Seba bats, every level offers a new perspective on the animal kingdom.
A Unique Overnight Experience
For the truly adventurous, The Green Planet offers the opportunity to camp overnight within this tropical paradise. Imagine falling asleep to the sounds of the rainforest, with exotic creatures as your neighbors. It's an experience like no other, allowing you to connect with nature in an extraordinary way.
Meet the Extraordinary Residents
The Green Planet is home to a diverse array of wildlife. Let's meet some of the fascinating creatures you can encounter during your visit:
Chicken - The Umbrella Cockatoo
Umbrella Cockatoos are a rare and endangered species in the wild, facing rapid population declines. Named after their crest of feathers that resemble an open umbrella, these birds use this unique feature for communication with their peers. Your encounter with them is a rare opportunity to support conservation efforts.
Fluffy - The Bearcat
Binturongs, often referred to as Bearcats, are considered vulnerable due to a 30% population decline over the last three decades. They face threats such as habitat destruction, hunting, and capture for the pet trade. Conservation laws in India, Malaysia, and China aim to protect this extraordinary species.
Goldie - The Blue and Gold Macaw
Blue and Gold Macaws are a vibrant presence in the rainforests of Mexico, Central America, and Northern South America. These herbivores possess an intriguing ability - they use their beaks as a "third foot" to navigate the dense canopy, allowing them to access food and shelter with ease.
Kendrik - The Lemur
Ring-tailed lemurs, native to the dry forests of Madagascar, are unique among their lemur counterparts. They spend more time on the ground than in the trees, making them the most terrestrial of all lemur species. Observing their behavior at The Green Planet offers valuable insights into this remarkable adaptation.
Lemon - The Sloth
The Green Planet's sloths are known as 'two-toed sloths,' featuring two front toes and three rear ones. Lemon, one of the beloved residents, has a penchant for grapes and lightly steamed sweet potatoes. Observing these slow-moving creatures is a lesson in tranquility and the beauty of unhurried living.
Thatcher - The Anteater
Tamanduas, cousins to sleepy sloths and armadillos, are equipped with a 40cm long, worm-like tongue. This remarkable adaptation helps them access small spaces when foraging for food. Their presence at The Green Planet showcases the diversity of life in the rainforest.
FAQs
Q: Can I touch the animals at The Green Planet?
A: No, the animals at The Green Planet are kept in open environments but should not be touched to ensure their safety and well-being.
Q: How can I camp overnight at The Green Planet?
A: The Green Planet offers the unique experience of camping overnight within the bio-dome. You can inquire about availability and make reservations in advance.
Q: What is the significance of the "umbrella" crest on Umbrella Cockatoos?
A: The crest of feathers on Umbrella Cockatoos resembles an open umbrella and serves as a form of communication among these unique birds.
Q: Why are Binturongs considered vulnerable?
A: Binturongs face a 30% population decline due to threats like habitat destruction, hunting, and capture for the pet trade.
Q: What do Blue and Gold Macaws use their beaks for?
A: Blue and Gold Macaws use their beaks as a "third foot" to navigate the dense canopy of rainforests.
Q: Are Ring-tailed lemurs primarily arboreal or terrestrial?
A: Ring-tailed lemurs are more terrestrial than arboreal, spending more time on the ground than in the trees.
Q: What do sloths like Lemon eat?
A: Sloths, like Lemon, enjoy a diet of grapes and lightly steamed sweet potatoes.
Q: How do Tamanduas use their long tongues?
A: Tamanduas use their long tongues, which can reach up to 40 cm in length, to access small spaces when foraging for food.
Conclusion
The Green Planet is more than just an indoor zoo; it's a captivating journey into the heart of a tropical rainforest. With its stunning bio-dome, diverse wildlife, and commitment to conservation, it's a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts and families alike. So, the next time you're in Dubai, immerse yourself in this extraordinary oasis and experience the magic of The Green Planet.
