In pictures: Ras Al Khaimah Zoo opens

A striped hyena seeks shade at the newly opened Rak Zoo. Sarah Dea / The National

One of the zoo's early visitors takes a look at a gray wolf. Sarah Dea / The National

In addition to this inhabitant, the zoo features African lions, white lions, white tigers, a rare golden tiger, panthers, wolves, deer and birds. Sarah Dea / The National

During the summer the animals will be kept in their own chilled isolation rooms to protect them from the unforgiving temperatures. Sarah Dea / The National

Visitors scramble to take photos of the various animals at the newly opened Rak Zoo in Ras Al Khaimah. Sarah Dea / The National

A worker completes a mural on an exterior wall at the newly opened Rak Zoo. Sarah Dea / The National

There are 45 different types of animals in the zoo. Sarah Dea / The National

A cheetah is one of the big draws at the new RAK Zoo. Sarah Dea / The National

A white lioness takes a rest at the newly opened Rak Zoo. Sarah Dea / The National

Ras Al Khaimah Zoo opened its doors for the first time yesterday, with its owner and residents confident it will help boost tourism in the emirate.

The zoo, located in Al Dagdaga, is owned by Jasim Ali, general commander of RAK Police, and the first phase of the project has so far cost Dh6 million.

The zoo features African lions, white lions, white tigers, a rare golden tiger, panthers, wolves, deer and birds.