The zoo needs to move as it is on land earmarked for the Haramain Railway project connecting Jeddah with the holy cities. The zoo was opened in 1985 by Wesmi Al-Wesmi.
“I have been managing this zoo for 25 years, and I have practically lived here. I’ve seen how it has grown, and I have added a museum to make it more exciting for visitors,” he said. Al-Wesmi is searching for land in north Jeddah to relocate the zoo.
“I’m looking for a bigger plot of land to transform the zoo into a safari park in northeast Jeddah but I cannot find a suitable place. All the land available is for rental, which is not suitable,” he said. “I want to own the land to ensure no one kicks me out later.”
Al-Wesmi also wants to add a horse stable, swimming pools and tennis courts.
Al-Wesmi is waiting for compensation from the government to start the relocation.
“It will be a long process to find land, hire engineering consultants and build it. You're talking about a huge space for animals, not buildings for people,” he said.
“Moving the animals from one place to another is a long process in itself. People working on this project might need to work round-the-clock to get things done within the year.”
Al-Wesmi insists that by owning a zoo he is doing a service to the country.
“Name one city in the world that does not have a zoo. You can’t, because it’s essential to have one for tourists and citizens to visit. Why can’t people see that it’s important?” he asked.
“The zoo is an educational institution for children and adults where they can learn about animals and creatures. Tourists can also come and see animals and creatures indigenous to Saudi Arabia.”
