Iguana – Majestic Herbivorous Reptile for Experienced Keepers in the UAE

The Green Iguana (Iguana iguana) is one of the most iconic and recognizable reptiles in the pet trade. Known for its large size, bright green coloring, and prehistoric appearance, the iguana is a species best suited to experienced reptile keepers who can provide the space, diet, and care it requires. In the UAE, iguanas are admired for their exotic appeal and commanding presence, especially when housed in custom-built indoor or outdoor enclosures.

At Sahara Exotics in Ajman, we provide captive-bred, juvenile iguanas that are healthy, acclimated, and ready for their forever homes in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, and across the Emirates. With proper care and a commitment to their needs, iguanas can be rewarding, long-lived companions.

Appearance and Size

Green Iguanas are large, muscular lizards that can grow up to 1.5 to 2 meters in total length, including their long, whip-like tail. They possess a distinctive dewlap (skin flap) under the chin, a row of spines running along the back, and a tall dorsal crest. Their skin is typically bright green in juveniles and may deepen to blue, orange, or brownish hues as they mature.

Their eyes are forward-facing and alert, with excellent vision and a keen awareness of movement. Males tend to be larger, with more pronounced dewlaps and cheeks, especially during breeding season.

Due to their eventual size and strength, iguanas require a significant long-term commitment in terms of space and handling.

Behavior and Temperament

While iguanas can become tame with consistent interaction, they are not naturally cuddly or docile. Their behavior ranges from calm and curious to territorial, especially during adolescence or mating season. Regular, gentle handling from a young age helps develop trust and reduce stress.

Behavioral characteristics:

• Diurnal – active during the day

• Arboreal – love to climb and bask at height

• Solitary – best housed alone

• Can become territorial as they mature

• Communicate through head bobbing, dewlap displays, and body posture

Iguanas are intelligent and observant reptiles but require a calm, consistent environment to prevent aggression or fear-based behaviors. Proper handling involves supporting their entire body and avoiding sudden movements.

Housing and Setup in UAE Homes

Due to their size and activity level, iguanas require large enclosures or free-roaming, supervised space. Indoor housing is preferred in UAE climates to maintain ideal temperatures and humidity.

Minimum housing for an adult:

• Size: 2 m x 1.5 m x 2 m (height is crucial for climbing)

• Enclosure type: Custom-built cage or large vertical terrarium

• Substrate: Newspaper, tile, or sealed wood (easy to clean)

• Decor: Branches, ledges, platforms, UVB-accessible basking areas

• Temperature:

  • Basking zone: 32°C to 36°C

  • Ambient: 26°C to 30°C

  • Night: No lower than 21°C

• Humidity: 60%–80%, maintained through misting and humidifiers

• Lighting: 12–14 hours of strong UVB and UVA lighting daily

Outdoor enclosures may be considered during mild months but must be escape-proof and predator-safe. Always monitor for dehydration during hot, dry periods indoors.

Diet and Nutrition

Green Iguanas are strict herbivores, and feeding them properly is essential to prevent health issues like metabolic bone disease.

Staple foods:

• Leafy greens: Collard greens, mustard greens, turnip greens, dandelion

• Vegetables: Squash, bell peppers, zucchini, green beans

• Occasional fruit: Papaya, mango, berries (as treats)

• Supplements: Calcium powder (without D3 for indoor use, with D3 for outdoor)

Never feed animal protein, insects, or dog food, as iguanas cannot process high-protein diets. Fresh, clean water must always be available in a shallow dish or offered by misting.

Feeding should be done daily, with varied, fresh ingredients to ensure balanced nutrition.

Lifespan and General Care

With the right conditions, iguanas can live 15 to 20 years or more in captivity. Their long lifespan, large size, and specific care needs make them best suited to committed reptile keepers.

Care tasks include:

• Daily feeding and misting

• Weekly enclosure cleaning

• Regular vet checkups, especially for growing juveniles

• Close monitoring of diet, weight, and behavior

• Regular handling to maintain tameness

At Sahara Exotics, our iguanas are carefully raised to adapt well to home life. We also provide the necessary lighting, enclosure accessories, and supplements for successful care in the UAE.