Emirates Park Zoo & Resort's Dr Walid Shaaban honoured as 'The CEO of the Year'

Zoo

Dr. Walid Shaaban, Group CEO of Emirates Park Zoo & Resort, has been awarded 'The CEO of the Year' at the 23rd edition of The Middle East Business Leader of the Year awards. This prestigious recognition highlights Dr. Shaaban's exceptional leadership and dedication to excellence, which has propelled Emirates Park Zoo & Resort to the forefront of wildlife conservation, education, and community engagement in the UAE.

Under Dr. Shaaban's visionary leadership, Emirates Park Zoo & Resort has effectively merged education with entertainment to promote environmental stewardship and sustainability. His strategic initiatives have aligned the zoo's mission with the UAE's vision of becoming a global leader in sustainable tourism. Dr. Shaaban's efforts have led to the implementation of numerous conservation and edutainment programs that engage the community and foster a deeper understanding of wildlife preservation.

Expressing his gratitude, Dr. Shaaban stated, "It is a great privilege to be recognized 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, 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."

The zoo's recent achievements include attaining full memberships with both the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA), making it the first zoo in the Middle East to receive accreditation from both institutions. Additionally, Emirates Park Zoo & Resort was recognized as the best zoo operator in the Middle East. These accolades underscore the zoo's commitment to maintaining the highest standards in animal care and conservation.

As a member of the WAZA family, Emirates Park Zoo & Resort joins nearly 400 leading institutions worldwide, forming a global community dedicated to conservation, animal welfare, and public education about biodiversity. This membership further solidifies the zoo's role in global conservation efforts and highlights its dedication to 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, providing stunning views of the zoo and access to complimentary activities such as animal talk sessions and magic performances. Visitors can enjoy memorable animal encounters, including breakfast with giraffes, lunch with big cats, and dinner with elephants, each offering an educational and engaging experience.

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

Dr. Shaaban's recognition as 'The CEO of the Year' is a testament to his transformative impact on Emirates Park Zoo & Resort and his unwavering commitment to conservation, education, and sustainable tourism.