Explore Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Talk about Dubai, and the first things that comes to mind are the Desert Safari and the Burj Khalifa, but in reality Dubai has much more in store. One such interesting attraction is the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Nestled at the hub of Dubai Mall, this captivating spectacle is abode to 30,000 plus aquatic animals. Famed for bagging the Guinness World Record for the largest Acrylic Panel in the world, visiting the aquarium is one of the finest things to do in Dubai Mall.

Getting to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Reaching the Dubai underwater zoo and aquarium is a breeze as Dubai offers smooth modes of transportation.

• Car/Taxi- One may reach the destination easily from Dubai’s city centre as it is merely about 2.3 kilometers away. Ideally, it will take about 5 to 10 minutes to reach.
• Metro- With the easy accessibility of metros, reaching the Dubai Mall Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is not a hassle. Dubai Mall Station, the nearest station, is merely 450 meters away from the destination, and if one wishes to walk, they can reach in 6-7 minutes.
• Bus- To reach Dubai Mall by bus, the famous routes are 81, 50, 30, 29, 28, and 27. The closes bust stop to Dubai Mall is AI Jafiliya, merely within walking distance. One may board the bus that heads towards Burj Khalifa or Dubai Mall. Along with exploring this underwater zoo and aquarium, you may also plan your visit to The Burj Khalifa which is not far away. To avoid the queue, book the Burj Khalifa tickets online and also do not forget to follow the effective tips for visiting Burj Khalifa for an ultimate experience.

Dubai Aquarium Tickets

The basic Dubai Aquarium ticket price per individual is AED 120 which comprises the Aquarium Tunnel & Underwater Zoo. For an explorer experience at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, it is AED 175 per individual. The other choices that lets one explore all delights comprise the VIP experience. The Dubai Aquarium tickets are available directly at Dubai Aquarium’s ticket counter. Besides, one may also book online on their official website to avoid queues. Annual passes are also available that offers 365 days of unlimited entry. Its benefits comprise no black-out dates, priority entry, ample discounts, and above all, unlimited admission to Behind the Scenes and Underwater Observatory.

Dubai Aquarium Timings

10am-11pm (Weekdays)
10am-Midnight (Weekends)

3 Key Sections

1. Aquarium Tank :

Home to over 140 species of interesting aquatic animals, this tank is amongst the world’s biggest suspended aquarium tanks. The mesmerizing world is inhabited by rays, sharks, and diverse other lively marine creatures that make little ones scream in glee. Besides, this tank has also created a niche for having the world’s largest assortment of Sand Tiger sharks.

2.Aquarium Tunnel :

This walk-through tunnel measuring 48 metres is an exciting means of being a part of the stirring marine life and clicking the same through one’s camera.

3.Underwater Zoo :

Placed on level 2 over the aquarium tank, it lets one to explore the wonderful aquatic animals range through forty varied display tanks. Boasting 3 diverse ecosystems – Living Ocean, Rocky Shore and Rainforest, here is one’s opportunity to come up close to wonderful creatures namely Lionfish, Otters, Giant Spider Crabs, African Dwarf Crocodile, Piranha, Humboldt Penguin, amid others.

Best Activities and Experiences

Discover a range of activities and experiences at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Let’s take a close look at each:

• Shark Encounter- One can get up close with sharks but in enclosed and safe diving cage. The key attraction here is the sand tiger shark. The icing on the cake is, to experience this there is no mandate for any diving experience.
• Cage Snorkelling- This is one of the most interesting activities here. Through cage snorkeling one gets an opportunity of getting a close meet up with 70 plus marine species, which also comprise 300 sharks & rays.
• Shark Dives- One can dive into a 10-million depth water-liter tank for a thrilling and awe-striking experience of facing the highest Sand Tiger collection. Under the guidance of expert supervision, anyone can take pleasure in the wonderful Shark Dive activity.
• Underwater Zoo- The chief attraction here is none other than the King Croc. Having a length of 5m and weighing 750kgs, this is one of the largest reptiles here. Besides, there is a host of other water animals too which ensures an enticing trip.
• UAE’s Night Creatures- One can be a part of the captivating, diverse, and fascinating Arabian wildlife here. The various night creatures include Ornate Spiny Tail Lizards, Scorpions, Giant Camel Spiders, Fruit Bats, and Arabian Toads.
• Glass-Bottom Boat Ride- For those who wish to discover the breathtaking sight of the aquarium, this is a must-try activity. This lets one to ride on the surface and take pleasure of the views of diverse fish species coupled with the scope of familiarizing about marine life under the guidance of an expert.
• Daily Presentations- At the time of this activity, one can observe how penguins, piranhas, otters, crocodiles, rays, and sharks are fed dinner.
• VRZOO- This is a chance of getting immersed in an exciting and wild world of amazing animals with the help of the VRZOO experience. Uganda’s gorillas, South Africa’s elephants, and Maldives’ whale sharks are some of its key highlights.
• Penguins’ Meet and Greet- Gentoo penguins were introduced for the very first time in Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo in 2010. These lovely Gentoo penguins stay in the Underwater Zoo in a colony where visitors have the opportunity of meeting and greeting them. Seeing the penguins swimming and waddling in their pool is a beautiful sight.
• Scuba Diving- For all those who desire to learn scuba diving, there cannot be a better gateway than at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Along with a brief theoretical analysis, one will be equipped with the essential equipment. They are then ready to dive and experience the beautiful marine life.

Beyond a Recreational Spot

Apart from being a highly sought-after recreational spot, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo also plays an imperative part in marine education and conservation. With a series of initiatives and educational programs, travelers are highly encouraged to gain a better understanding of the significance of conservation efforts and the marine ecosystem. Right from instructive exhibits to interactive workshops throwing light on the various pressing ecological issues, this facility indeed endeavors to turn guests into marine life protectors and ocean stewards.

Things to Know

• Carry valid ID proof
• Get stroller and wheelchair accessibility
• Kids below 12 should be accompanied by guardians/parents
• Tickets are a mandate for all aged 2 years plus
• Reach at least 30 minutes prior to scheduled booking time
• Flash photography is restricted in a few places to prevent harm to animals
• Avoid shouting on premises
• Tickets are non-exchangeable and non-refundable

Takeaway

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo undoubtedly stands apart as a beacon of exploration and wonder. It is not merely a tourist spot but also acts as a channel for conservation, education, and admiration of a marine world. You get to explore the best aquariums in the world. In short, it ensures an unforgettable escapade underneath the waves.

Frequently Asked Questions