Emirates Park Zoo in Abu Dhabi became the first zoo in the Middle East to achieve the prestigious accreditation from the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), underscoring its commitment to upholding the highest ethical and operational standards in the zoo and aquarium industry.

This 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 the revered 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 programs, conservation initiatives, educational programs, and safety measures.

Dr Walid Shaaban, Director & CEO of Emirates Park Zoo, said: "I am proud of our team and their dedication to delivering excellence at our zoo. Accreditation standards continuously evolve to ensure we are achieving the highest standard for our animals and their wellbeing.

“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."

The AZA accreditation is a testament to Emirates Park Zoo's unwavering dedication to maintaining the highest standards of animal care and well-being, said a statement.

This achievement reflects the zoo's dedication to wildlife conservation, education, and fostering an appreciation for the natural world, it added.

These standards prioritise animal welfare, veterinary programmes, conservation efforts, education initiatives, and safety protocols. The inspection team meticulously examines the facility and compiles detailed reports, which are then rigorously evaluated by the Accreditation Commission.

Walid Shaaban, Director & CEO, said: "Congratulations to Emirates Park Zoo and Resort for meeting this gold standard in zoo management and care. This accreditation recognizes the dedication of all our team and partners in providing an incredible zoo experience for the UAE community." – TradeArabia News Service