Dubai’s Oldest Giraffe Turns 25, Celebrates with Vegie Cake
Dubai Safari Park’s matriarch giraffe celebrates her 25th birthday with a veggie-filled cake and a legacy of calm leadership.
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Dalia, the oldest giraffe at Dubai Safari Park, just turned 25 — a rare age for her kind. Born on April 9, 2000, Dalia is a reticulated giraffe, a species listed as endangered with fewer than 11,000 left worldwide. Her birthday was marked with a special veggie cake made of her favorites: lettuce, carrots, cucumbers, and her usual feed.
Photos and videos from park staff show the giraffe calmly enjoying her treat, a quiet celebration for the animal that’s grown into the role of herd leader over the years.
From Dubai Zoo baby to park matriarch
Dalia was born at the old Dubai Zoo, in full view of curious visitors. Wildlife expert Dr. Reza Khan, who worked at the zoo at the time, remembers the moment clearly — from the baby giraffe’s dramatic birth to her mother cleaning her up as she tried to stand.
“She was born in front of everyone,” said Dr. Khan. “It’s a sight you never forget.”
Only one of two calves survived that day — and that was Dalia. Over the years, she moved from the former zoo to the more advanced and animal-friendly Dubai Safari Park, which is now home to over 3,000 animals.
Still active and leading the herd
Now considered the “grand lady” of the park, Dalia remains an important figure in the giraffe enclosure. Despite some age-related bone issues, park officials say she’s doing well, thanks to regular health checks and advanced monitoring systems.
“She has osteoporosis, like many elderly ladies,” said Dion, one of the park’s wildlife experts. “But she’s still in charge and aging gracefully.”
More than just a giraffe
Dalia’s longtime caretaker, Amos Ikere, has spent years building a bond with her. As one of the park’s Animal Care Specialists, he describes her as calm, intelligent, and even a mentor to younger giraffes.
“She teaches them how to behave around people,” he said. “She’s very gentle. We communicate through eye contact and small nudges — it’s a connection that took time and patience to build.”
Conservation, care, and quiet leadership
Dubai Safari Park is known for its conservation efforts and high standards of animal care. Dalia’s story is a symbol of how proper treatment and attention can give animals long, fulfilling lives.
As she steps into her 25th year, Dalia continues to inspire not just visitors, but also the people who work with her every day.
