Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: A Mesmerizing Marine Adventure

Dubai is known for its luxurious attractions, but one of its most fascinating experiences is the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Located in The Dubai Mall, this world-class marine exhibit offers a breathtaking glimpse into the ocean’s depths, making it a must-visit for tourists and marine enthusiasts alike.

The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world, featuring a 10-million-liter tank that houses over 140 marine species, including sharks, rays, and exotic fish. The Underwater Zoo, located above the main tank, offers a closer look at fascinating creatures like penguins, otters, crocodiles, and jellyfish.

Location: Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo , Second Floor,Dubai Mall

Opening hours : Open Daily: 10 am to 2 am | Last admission at 1.30 am

Table of Contents

• Key Attractions and Experiences
• Exciting Animal Encounters
• Thrilling Diving Experiences
• Tickets & Passes
• How to Get to Dubai Aquarium
• Frequently asked questions

Key Attractions and Experiences

1. The Massive Aquarium Tank

The main attraction is the huge tank, which is 51 meters long, 20 meters wide, and 11 meters high. It is home to thousands of aquatic animals, including the largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks in the world. Visitors can marvel at the aquatic life through the world’s largest acrylic viewing panel or take a stroll through the 48-meter-long underwater tunnel, offering a 270-degree view of marine life.

2. Underwater Zoo

The Underwater Zoo is divided into three ecological zones:

• Rainforest Zone: Features unique creatures such as piranhas, tree frogs, and snakes.
• Rocky Shore Zone: Home to fascinating marine animals like sea stars and giant spider crabs.
• Living Ocean Zone: Showcases awe-inspiring marine species, including jellyfish and seahorses.

Exciting Animal Encounters

Penguin Encounter

Meet the coolest colony in town as these adorable, pint-sized creatures interact, dive, and waddle with comical charm. Don’t miss the chance to meet Rain, the brave and cheeky penguin with a heart full of adventure!

King Croc Encounter

Come face-to-face with King Jock and Queen Missy, the mighty royal croc duo, and witness the lives of these living legends up close.

Otter Encounter

Meet our charismatic and intelligent Otter family, including Diego, the grandfather of all otters. Watch him solve puzzles, juggle pebbles, and perform his acrobatics!

Ray Encounter

Touch, hand-feed, and come face-to-fin with these gentle and sociable creatures under the guidance of our expert team. Marvel at their graceful movements in this up-close experience.

Shark Trainer Encounter

Step into the world of shark experts and uncover the mysteries of shark behaviour. Get an up-close look at their feeding habits and discover the fascinating world of these apex predators.

Feeding Presentation

Ever wondered how Dubai Aquarium keeps its sharks and rays well-fed? Witness marine feeding sessions and learn about their diets in this interactive presentation.

Thrilling Diving Experiences

Shark Dives

Take the plunge with our expert instructors and glide alongside majestic sharks, schools of groupers, elegant rays, and other vibrant marine life in our captivating big blue tank.

Cage Snorkeling

Perfect for ages 8+, cage snorkeling offers a thrilling way to experience 70 different marine species, including 300 sharks and rays, all from the safety of a secure cage.

Shark Walker Cage

No scuba certification needed! Put on a special helmet that lets you breathe underwater and come face-to-face with sharks and other fascinating marine life.

Specialty Dives

For certified divers, embark on three immersive dives featuring vibrant marine life, a shark feeding frenzy, and stunning underwater photography opportunities.

Discover Scuba Diving

Tickets & Passes

General Tickets

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is open 365 days a year. Visitors can purchase tickets at the counter or skip the line by booking online. Choose from a variety of ticket options:

• Basic Pass (AED 199.00): Access to the Aquarium Tunnel, Underwater Zoo, and Penguin Cove, plus a 20 AED voucher for the shop.
• Ultimate Experience (AED 269.00): Includes everything in the Basic Pass, plus a glass boat tour, fish feeding, and discounts on animal encounters and dining.
• VIP Ticket (AED 399.00): Enjoy skip-the-line access, a guided tour, and a complimentary animal encounter, along with all Ultimate Experience perks.
• Dubai Aquarium + At the Top Combo (AED 275.00): Experience both the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and At the Top, Burj Khalifa in one package.

Annual Passes

For frequent visitors, annual passes provide year-round access and exclusive benefits:

• Annual Pass Adult (AED 500.00): Unlimited access, one free animal encounter, and 25% off for up to four family members or friends.
• Annual Pass Child (AED 400.00): Unlimited access, one free animal encounter, and discounts on experiences, parties, and more.

Add-Ons (AED 100.00 each)

Enhance your visit with these unforgettable add-ons:

• Penguin Encounter: Meet and interact with adorable penguins, including the adventurous Rain.
• Ray Encounter: Hand-feed and interact with gentle and graceful rays.
• King Croc Encounter: Witness King Jock and Queen Missy up close.
• Otter Encounter: Be entertained by Diego, the playful and intelligent otter.
• Shark Trainer Encounter: Learn from experts and observe shark behavior in an immersive experience.

How to Get to Dubai Aquarium

Dubai Metro

Board the Dubai Metro Red Line and get off at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station. Exit and walk to Dubai Mall, then follow signs to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo inside the mall.

Bus Routes

Several RTA buses stop at Dubai Mall, including routes 27, 28, 29, 30, 50, and 81. If you're coming from Dubai Frame, the closest stop is Al Jafiliya, which is within walking distance. Board a bus heading towards Dubai Mall or Burj Khalifa to reach your destination. The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is an unforgettable experience that brings the wonders of the ocean to life in the heart of Dubai. Whether you’re a marine life enthusiast, a thrill-seeker, or looking for an educational trip with family, this attraction offers something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much time do I need to explore the entire attraction?

A visit to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. However, if you’re participating in special experiences like Shark Dives or Animal Encounters, you may want to allow extra time.

2. Do I need to book my tickets in advance?

It is not mandatory, but booking online in advance is highly recommended to skip the queue and secure your preferred experience. Online tickets also offer discounted rates on select packages.

3. Is Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo suitable for children?

Yes! This attraction is family-friendly and designed for all ages. Children will love the interactive exhibits, Penguin Cove, and Otter Encounter. However, children under 3 years old can enter for free, and kids under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

4. Can I take photos and videos inside the aquarium?

Yes, photography and videography are allowed. However, flash photography is prohibited as it may disturb the marine animals. Professional photos with animals are available for purchase at the venue.

5. Are there any dining options inside Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo?

While the attraction itself does not have a restaurant, Dubai Mall offers a variety of dining options nearby. For a unique experience, you can book a Shark Dive or Cage Snorkeling, which includes an immersive marine encounter.