World’s Leading Zoos and Aquariums

The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) is the global alliance of regional associations, national federations, zoos and aquariums, dedicated to the care and conservation of animals and their habitats around the world.

400 members
around the world

WAZA promotes cooperation between leading zoos, aquariums, national and regional associations, as well as with leading wildlife experts, academies, and universities. WAZA provides support for species-conservation management and husbandry of animals in human care, while encouraging the highest standards in member institutions.

Become a member

WAZA accepts membership applications in four categories: associations, institutions, affiliates and corporations. WAZA members must be committed to the principles of the global zoo and aquarium community.

The unifying organisation for the world's leading zoos and aquariums

WAZA’s vision is to be a globally recognised and trusted leader advancing conservation and animal welfare.

International Day for Biological Diversity 2026 – Species by Species: How Local Action Is Building a Global Future for Biodiversity

International Day for Biological Diversity 2026 Species by Species: How Local Action Is Building a Global Future for Biodiversity Posted: 22 May 2026 On this International Day for Biological Diversity, the global community pauses to celebrate nature. But this year’s

A Milestone Celebrated: Advancing the WAZA 2027 Population Management Goal

A Milestone Celebrated: Advancing the WAZA 2027 Population Management Goal Posted: 29 April 2026 WAZA has recently marked the formal recognition of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), the European Association of Zoos and Aquaria (EAZA), and the Zoo

WAZA and IZE extend strategic partnership to advance global conservation education

WAZA and IZE extend strategic partnership to advance global conservation education Posted: 24 April 2026 The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) and the International Zoo Educators Association (IZE) have renewed and extended their long-standing Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), reaffirming a strategic partnership

WAZA Welcomes New Member – Dubai Safari Park

WAZA Welcomes New Member – Dubai Safari Park Posted: 13 May 2026 The World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) welcomes Dubai Safari Park, based in the United Arab Emirates, as a new Institution Member. Dubai Safari Park is one of the largest wildlife parks

Zoos and aquariums are the third largest funder of conservation globally

WAZA and its members are committed to inspire and engage the more than 700 million people who visit zoos and aquariums every year – literally one-tenth of the world’s population – to take action for the conservation of species and nature.

Dedicated to change

WAZA and its members are committed to important goals regarding the environment and sustainability, and are engaged in issues of conservation and battling the illegal trade in wildlife like never before. Read the WAZA News Magazine and other publications to find out more.