Qatar plans to open a new “world-class” zoo by 2020 that will feature drive-through safaris, an elephant walk-way over Al Waab Street and a claimed to be seven-star tree-top hotel. The development was announced by a senior Ashghal executive during the Qatar - Tourism in Tomorrow’s World conference.
The zoo is to be located on a 71 hectare site in Al Waab and will link with the Aspire Park and Villagio mall via a cable car, dedicated tram system and a custom-built walk-way.
Public works authority Ashghal planner Gregory Clarkson outlined the concept and vision of the new mega attraction, which is expected to help to elevate Qatar to being a global tourist destination.
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Clarkson, whose prior experience includes Hong Kong Disneyworld, said the zoo would be split into zones and would feature animal attractions including gorillas, giraffes, lions, tigers, rhinos and an elephants’ walkway.
He added that the zoo will also include drive-through African and Asian Safari zones, walk-through African and Asian safari areas, a mountain experience and a tropical rainforest environment.
The planned inclusion of a tree house hotel will see the resort nestled in mature trees, with boardwalks throughout the tree canopy. This will include the claimed seven-star property alongside a five-star rainforest hotel and a four-star Montane family resort.
“We want to create a world-leading model for integrated nature conservation and visitor experience. It will be a unique and memorable attraction,” Clarkson added.
A key attraction to the plans includes the Village, which will feature strong influence from Qatari heritage and culture with architecture, themed cafes and restaurants and a traditional souq.
Once the development is complete and open to the public, the developers expect it will receive 1.3 million visitors to the village and around 950,000 to the zoo itself.
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