Cairo's historic Giza Zoo to reopen in 2026 as world-class attraction

CAIRO - 28 August 2025: The Giza Zoo, one of the oldest and largest in the Middle East, is undergoing a comprehensive renovation to restore its historic grandeur and establish it as a leading global eco-tourism destination. Spanning 112 acres, the zoo is a landmark in Cairo, a historic and recreational hub for Egyptians and tourists since its founding in 1891.

With the first phase of its development approved by the African Association of Zoos and Aquaria, the zoo is set to officially reopen in 2026. This ambitious project aims to offer visitors a unique experience that blends the zoo's rich history with modern, international standards, making it a prominent tourist destination.

The project is led by the National Alliance for the Development of the Zoo and Orman Garden, which aims to restore the zoo's international ranking. Its vision is to transform the zoo into a fully integrated educational, cultural, and recreational platform.

In an official statement, Mohamed Kamel, Chairman of "Hadaeq" (Gardens) Company, the firm overseeing the project, described the renovation as a radical shift in Egypt's eco-tourism concept. He explained that the project goes beyond a simple facelift, aiming to create a comprehensive experience that balances entertainment with conservation and education for all ages.

Kamel noted that the renovations included building modern, safe, and healthy enclosures for the animals, adhering to the highest standards of animal welfare. All internal pathways have been redeveloped while preserving the architectural and historical character of the zoo's eight main landmarks.

These include the famous Eiffel Bridge, the Japanese Kiosk, the Royal Hall, the Tea Island, the Grotto, and the Zoological Museum. All have undergone meticulous restoration to ensure they remain an integral part of the zoo's identity.

A promotional video from the National Alliance also announced a first-of-its-kind experience for visitors: nighttime tours. This will allow guests to observe animals in a different, quieter environment and attend cultural and artistic events. This innovative approach is expected to attract new tourist segments and establish the zoo as a key tourist attraction.

The alliance emphasized its full commitment to applying the highest international standards in veterinary care. The project leveraged local and international expertise to provide the best possible care for the animals, including a comprehensive veterinary department that conducts daily health monitoring, regular vaccinations, and precise examinations in cooperation with the Animal Health Institute and the Agricultural Research Center.

The renovation also includes a host of new activities designed to enhance the visitor experience. These feature live shows with sea lions and birds, an interactive lemur exhibit, a glass dome for meerkats, and an underwater viewing experience for hippos, all designed to mimic the animals' natural habitats. The nighttime tour is a particularly notable innovation, as it is the first of its kind in the Middle East, offering a unique educational and tourist experience.

As part of the development plan, authorities are fast-tracking the import of 362 new animals from abroad to be integrated into the new exhibits. Some of these animals will be used to support other zoos in different governorates, a strategy aimed at spreading development and enhancing animal diversity across the country.

This national project represents a significant leap forward in eco-recreation in Egypt. It serves as a modern model for integrated zoos that balance educational, cultural, and recreational aspects. With the new zoo's opening approaching, it is anticipated to be one of the most significant achievements in the development of recreational facilities, in line with Egypt's Vision 2030 for sustainable development and improved quality of life.