Tucked inside one of the largest shopping malls in the world, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo offers a mesmerizing experience like no other. Located in The Dubai Mall, this world-class marine attraction is more than just a giant fish tank β it’s a gateway into the mysteries of ocean life, combining awe-inspiring visuals with education, conservation, and family fun.
Whether you’re a curious traveler, a marine enthusiast, or a family with kids, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is one of the top indoor attractions in the UAE.
ποΈ What Makes It Unique?
At the center of the experience is the 10-million-liter tank β one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world β housing over 140 species and 33,000 aquatic animals, including:
- π¦ Sand tiger sharks
- π Giant groupers
- π’ Sea turtles
- π Rays and exotic reef fish
- π Crocodiles
- π§ Penguins
Spanning two levels of the Dubai Mall, the aquarium includes:
- The Main Aquarium Tank
- The 48-meter-long Aquarium Tunnel
- The Underwater Zoo on Level 2
- Interactive exhibits and animal encounters
π Highlights of the Experience
1. The Aquarium Tunnel
Walk through a 270-degree acrylic tunnel, where sharks and rays glide above and around you. Itβs a truly immersive experience that gives you a diverβs-eye view β without getting wet.
2. Underwater Zoo
Above the aquarium, the zoo introduces three ecological zones:
- Rainforest Zone β Home to piranhas, crocodiles, frogs, and snakes
- Rocky Shore Zone β Featuring penguins, sea otters, and spider crabs
- Living Ocean β Full of jellyfish, seahorses, lionfish, and clownfish
The zoo emphasizes education and conservation, with signage, touchscreens, and trained guides available to enhance your understanding.
3. King Croc
Meet one of the largest crocodiles in the world β over 5 meters long and weighing 750+ kg. Originally from Australia, King Croc is a massive saltwater crocodile living in a custom-designed habitat alongside his female companion.
π§ Interactive Experiences
Dubai Aquarium offers several optional interactive and behind-the-scenes activities:
| Experience | Description |
|---|---|
| π§βπ¬ Behind-the-Scenes Tour | Learn how the aquarium operates, from feeding to filtration |
| π Glass Bottom Boat Ride | Float across the surface of the main tank |
| π§ Penguin Cove Encounter | Visit a colony of Gentoo penguins in their icy habitat |
| π¦ Shark Encounter | Safely cage dive with sharks (no diving license required) |
| π€Ώ Shark Dive Experience | For certified divers only β an unforgettable adrenaline rush |
| 𦦠Otter Encounter | Feed and play with these adorable animals up close |
Tip: These encounters must be booked in advance and often fill up quickly on weekends.
π Conservation & Education
Dubai Aquarium is deeply committed to:
- Marine conservation awareness campaigns
- Sustainable animal husbandry practices
- Public education on ocean life and environmental threats
Through workshops, student programs, and partnerships with conservation bodies, the aquarium promotes responsible ocean exploration and marine protection.
π· Photo Opportunities
Youβll find plenty of Instagram-worthy moments:
- Sharks swimming overhead in the tunnel
- Close-ups with penguins or crocs
- Moody, glowing jellyfish tanks
- Professional photo zones and gift shop souvenirs
ποΈ Dining & Shopping
Being inside The Dubai Mall, visitors can pair the aquarium visit with:
- World-class restaurants and food courts
- Ice rink, cinema, KidZania, VR Park, and Burj Khalifa
- Direct access to The Dubai Fountain and Dubai Opera
Itβs a perfect day out β especially for families, tourists, and school groups.
π Plan Your Visit
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| π Location | Ground & Level 2, The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai |
| π Opening Hours | 10:00 AM β 11:00 PM (daily) |
| ποΈ Ticket Price | Starting from AED 199 (Explorer Package) |
| π Website | thedubaiaquarium.com |
| βοΈ Contact | +971 4 448 5200 |
Tip: Combo passes with VR experiences or Burj Khalifa are also available.
π¬ Final Thoughts
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is more than an attraction β it’s an oceanic adventure in the heart of the desert. From sharks to penguins, tunnels to touchpoints, it’s one of the few places where education, thrill, and family fun come together so effortlessly.
If youβre planning a Dubai itinerary, donβt leave this off your list.
