Al Ain: For the first time in its 40-year history, Al Ain Wildlife Park and Resort has launched an all night zoo and has invited people to observe the nocturnal behaviour of animals.

The park will open its gates from 9pm to 2am during Ramadan, giving an opportunity to the public to watch a demonstration where penguins are fed. There will be other demonstrations at the Arabian and African mixed exhibits, said an official of the park yesterday.

The visitors will also be able to see birds of prey in action during a show. Visitors can feast on a traditional Suhoor meal at the restaurant located within the zoo - all with the majestic Jebel Hafeet in the backdrop.

Majid Al Mansouri, managing director of the park, said: "Ramadan is a family occasion, and a time for people to spend time with their loved ones in a peaceful and welcoming environment".

He said the park had carefully selected the late-night hours.

"This is the time of night when families and friends come together to socialise. Now they can spend the early hours of the night interacting with wildlife from around the world," he said.

The visitors, said Al Mansouri, will be able to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience the nocturnal behaviour of animals such as the endangered Arabian Oryx, lions and giraffes.