DUBAI – June 05, 2024: Dr. Walid Shaaban, Group CEO of the globally acclaimed Emirates Park Zoo & Resort, a premier destination for wildlife enthusiasts in the UAE, has been honoured as “The CEO of the Year” at the 23rd edition of The Middle East Business Leader of the Year awards. The award recognises his exceptional leadership and dedication to excellence, putting Emirates Park Zoo & Resort at the forefront of wildlife conservation, education, and community engagement in the UAE.

Dr. Shaaban's visionary leadership has been instrumental in driving Emirates Park Zoo & Resort’s mission forward. Under his helm, the zoo has successfully combined education with entertainment to successfully promote environmental stewardship and sustainability. Through his guidance, the zoo has implemented various initiatives focused on conservation, edutainment, and community engagement in alignment with the UAE's vision of becoming a leading global destination for sustainable tourism.

Dr. Shaaban expressed his gratitude for the honour, stating, 'It is a great privilege to be recognised by The Business Leader of the Year program. This award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire team at Emirates Park Zoo & Resort. We remain committed to promoting sustainable tourism, and wildlife conservation, and providing unique and educational experiences for our visitors. This recognition inspires us to continue our efforts in driving positive change and contributing to the growth and welfare of the community.'

Most recently, the zoo attained full memberships with both the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), becoming the first zoo in the Middle East to be accredited by both institutions. Emirates Park Zoo & Resort was also recognized as the best zoo operator in the Middle East. These accolades highlight the zoo’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards in animal care and conservation.

As an institutional member of the WAZA family Emirates Park Zoo & Resort takes its place among nearly 400 leading institutions worldwide, forming a global community of zoos, aquariums, regional and national associations, and private corporations. The membership reinforces the zoo’s commitment to conservation, animal welfare, and contributing to global efforts in preserving biodiversity and educating the public about the importance of preserving the natural world.

Emirates Park Zoo & Resort offers a unique blend of entertainment and wildlife experiences for families and visitors. The facility features air-conditioned chalets with traditional Arabian designs, offering stunning views of the zoo and access to complimentary activities such as animal talk sessions and magic performances. Visitors can enjoy animal encounters, including breakfast with giraffes, lunch with big cats, and dinner with elephants, each providing an educational and memorable experience.

The Business Leader of the Year program is a distinguished initiative that has been celebrating excellence in leadership for over two decades. An independent jury evaluates nominees based on various criteria, including corporate social responsibility (CSR), business competencies, and overall impact on growth and welfare. The program aims to honour professionals who exhibit exemplary leadership and drive significant advancements within their industries.