Shamal reveal plans for "Urban Oasis" at historic Dubai Zoo site
The site of the historic Dubai Zoo is being converted into a low-rise development that honours its legacy.
The Dubai Zoo shut its doors in 2017, with all the animals moving to Dubai Safari Park, and was considered something of a landmark in the emirate.
Located in Jumeirah, the Dubai Zoo was originally built in 1967 and was home to more than 100 species of animals.
And now, investment firm Shamal is building a residential and lifestyle destination which has been inspired by the organic clusters and greenery that was once the Dubai Zoo.
The new development will prioritise walkability and open green space, including shared courtyards, a large central park and preserved mature trees.
The new space will respect the legacy of the old landmark through organic architecture, sustainable landscaping and community-led design.
Plans include an array of amenities for the eventual residents, including courtyards and a club house, a wellness area, a dedicated children's play area, a family pool, lounge and gym.
A new development at the site of the old Dubai Zoo (Credit: Shamal)
The 'Urban Oasis' will be made up of 90 meticulously designed residential units that blend in with the surrounding neighbourhood.
Abdulla Binhabtoor, Chief Executive Officer at Shamal, explained the plans to honour the site of the old zoo.
He said: 'This is more than a redevelopment; it is a profound reimagining of a beloved landmark that holds deep connections for countless individuals and the wider community.
'At Shamal, we aspire to deliver the extraordinary – not through scale alone, but through intention, care, and design that speaks to the soul of the city.
'Our vision is to respectfully honour the site's rich past and curate a progressive space for modern living.
'It is designed for people to live, connect, and thrive, fostering a personal, calm, and grounded lifestyle that blends heritage with the present.'
A new development at the site of the old Dubai Zoo (Credit: Shamal)
DXB Lab will partner with Shamal on the architecture of the site. Khalid Al Najjar of DXB Lab explained the design process of the old landmark.
He said: 'Our design process began with a deep exploration of the site's history and natural character.
'We were inspired by the organic clusters and greenery that once defined the Dubai Zoo, and we translated those elements into a geometric architectural language that feels both rooted and forward-looking.
'This project is a tribute to Jumeirah's legacy – an environment where memory and modernity coexist.'
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