# Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve (Al Areen Wildlife Park) (محمية محمد بن زايد الطبيعية (محمية العرين))

Desert & Nature · Al Areen · South Bahrain

Bahrain's first nature reserve, open to visitors since 1976, protects the Arabian oryx and the Bahraini reem gazelle in the desert near Zallaq.

Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve is the new name of Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve, Bahrain's best known wildlife site. It lies in the south west of the island near Zallaq, a short distance from Bahrain International Circuit. The reserve exists to protect, breed and study native and regional species, above all the Arabian oryx and the Bahraini reem gazelle, in a safe desert habitat.

The reserve is split into two parts. One section is set aside for specialists and researchers and is closed to the public. The other is a visitor area where you can see mammals, birds and reptiles alongside native plants such as marakh trees and date palms. Visits have traditionally included a guided bus tour past the larger animals, so you see them in open enclosures rather than cages.

The site opened in 1976 and has long been run under the authority that now forms Bahrain's Supreme Council for Environment. Captive breeding here has supported the release of animals elsewhere in the kingdom, including the Hawar Islands. In December 2025, to mark the UAE's 54th Union Day, King Hamad issued a royal order naming the reserve after UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.

The reserve suits families with children, school groups, birdwatchers and anyone who wants to see Arabian desert wildlife without a long trip. It pairs well with a morning at the Tree of Life, Jebel Dukhan or the circuit. Expect some signs and maps to still show the old Al Areen name while the new name settles in.

## Highlights
- Arabian oryx and Bahraini reem gazelle
- Bahrain's first nature reserve, opened 1976
- Separate public area and research area
- Native plants including marakh trees and date palms
- Renamed by royal order in December 2025
- Close to Bahrain International Circuit and Gravity Village

## Good to know
- Signs, maps and taxis may still use the old name, Al Areen Wildlife Park.
- Part of the reserve is closed to the public and reserved for researchers.
- Opening times listed on bahrain.com vary by day, with shorter hours on Fridays, so check before you go.
- Morning visits in the cooler months are more comfortable and animals are usually more active.

## Key facts
- Area: Al Areen
- Region: South-west coast
- Founded: 1976
- Renamed: December 2025
- Former name: Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve
- Best time: November to March, mornings
- Coordinates (approximate): 25.997, 50.488

## FAQ
**Is Al Areen Wildlife Park the same as Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve?**
Yes. Al Areen Wildlife Park and Reserve was renamed Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve by royal order in December 2025. The site, animals and location are the same.

**What animals can you see at the reserve?**
The reserve is known for the Arabian oryx and the Bahraini reem gazelle, along with other mammals, birds and reptiles. Native plants such as marakh trees and date palms grow there too.

**Where is the Mohamed bin Zayed Nature Reserve?**
It is in the south west of Bahrain near Zallaq, close to Bahrain International Circuit and Gravity Village.

**When was Al Areen Wildlife Park founded?**
The reserve opened in 1976 and is described as Bahrain's first natural reserve.

Page: https://bahrainsouth.com/desert-and-nature/al-areen-wildlife-park/