Crested Gecko – Unique, Climbing Reptile for Modern Pet Enthusiasts in the UAE

The Crested Gecko (Correlophus ciliatus), also known as the “eyelash gecko,” is a fascinating arboreal lizard native to New Caledonia. Its soft skin, expressive eyelashes, and gentle behavior make it one of the most sought-after pet reptiles worldwide. Crested Geckos are particularly well-suited to UAE reptile keepers looking for a low-maintenance, interactive, and visually stunning lizard that thrives in a vertically designed habitat.

At Sahara Exotics in Ajman, we offer healthy, captive-bred Crested Geckos in a variety of color morphs. Whether you’re in Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi, or anywhere in the Emirates, our geckos are ready to add charm and uniqueness to your collection.

Appearance and Size

Crested Geckos are named for the soft, hair-like crests that run from above their eyes down the sides of their body. These “eyelashes” give the gecko a distinctive look and contribute to their expressive appearance.

They typically grow between 20 to 25 cm in length, including their prehensile tail, and weigh around 35 to 55 grams as adults. Their skin is soft and comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns—ranging from flame and harlequin to dalmatian and pinstripe morphs. Their toes and tail are equipped with specialized pads that allow them to climb glass, plants, and enclosure walls effortlessly.

Unlike Leopard Geckos, Crested Geckos can regenerate their tail only once, and in captivity, many adults are found without it. A tailless gecko, however, remains perfectly healthy and active.

Behavior and Temperament

Crested Geckos are calm, curious, and easy to interact with. Though they may jump when startled (especially juveniles), they quickly adapt to regular gentle handling.

Key behavioral traits:

• Nocturnal – active in the evening and night

• Excellent climbers, preferring vertical space

• Quiet and clean – no strong odor or sound

• Do not require intense interaction but tolerate it well

• Best kept solo, unless breeding

Their gentle nature and ease of care make them ideal for beginners, families, or even apartment dwellers in the UAE who want an exotic yet low-demand pet.

Housing Setup for UAE Conditions

Crested Geckos prefer a vertical enclosure that mimics the tropical forests of their native habitat. Their housing must maintain humidity and temperature levels, which are easily controlled indoors in UAE environments.

Recommended enclosure:

• Size: 45 cm x 45 cm x 60 cm (tall enclosure is key)

• Substrate: Coconut fiber, orchid bark, or bioactive setups

• Decor: Branches, vines, cork bark, live or artificial plants

• Hideouts at various levels

• Water dish with shallow clean water

• Temperature range: 22°C to 27°C; avoid above 29°C

• Humidity: 50% to 80%, with regular misting (twice daily)

UVB lighting is optional but can be beneficial for vitamin D3 synthesis and natural behavior. Provide a consistent day-night cycle of 12 hours light and 12 hours dark.

Feeding and Nutrition

Crested Geckos are omnivores. In captivity, their diet is simple and commercially supported.

Recommended diet:

• Specially formulated Crested Gecko diet powders mixed with water

• Occasional live insects like crickets or dubia roaches (2–3 times a week)

• Occasional fruit puree (mango, banana, papaya – no citrus)

Feeding is done every other day for adults and daily for juveniles. Always remove uneaten food the next day to maintain enclosure hygiene.

Clean, dechlorinated water should be provided in a small dish and also via regular misting, which they often lick from surfaces.

Lifespan and General Care

Crested Geckos can live 15 to 20 years with proper care. They are a long-term commitment, but one that doesn’t demand daily intensive maintenance.

Care guidelines:

• Spot-clean enclosure daily

• Full substrate change every 4–6 weeks

• Monitor humidity and misting routine

• Check for consistent shedding and behavior

• Provide vet checkups as needed

At Sahara Exotics, our Crested Geckos are raised on proper diets, handled gently, and are well-acclimated to indoor habitats, ensuring a smooth transition into your home.