If you are searching for a unique and unforgettable experience in Dubai, you should visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Located in the heart of Dubai Mall, this attraction is one of the largest and most stunning aquariums in the world. It invites visitors to step into a mesmerizing underwater world filled with thousands of aquatic animals and incredible interactive experiences that thrill both children and adults alike.
In this article, you will discover everything that makes the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo so special, from the sheer size of its giant tank and the variety of marine life it houses to the unforgettable activities you can take part in and tips on planning your visit. Whether you are an ocean lover, a family looking for a fun day out, or simply curious about marine life, this guide will help you prepare for an amazing adventure.
What is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo?
At its core, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is home to a colossal tank holding 10 million liters of water. This enormous aquarium tank is one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world, measuring 51 meters long, 20 meters wide, and 11 meters high. Imagine a giant glass box filled with over 33,000 aquatic creatures, including a stunning collection of sand tiger sharks, which is the biggest gathering of these sharks anywhere on Earth.
However, it is not just about the size. The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo hosts more than 140 different species of sea life, including colorful tropical fish, majestic stingrays, enormous groupers, and fascinating sea jellies. This variety makes it a truly spectacular place to see marine diversity up close.
Walking Through the Underwater Tunnel
One of the most popular features of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is its 48-meter-long underwater tunnel. As you walk through this transparent tunnel, the aquarium surrounds you on all sides, making it feel as if you are strolling along the ocean floor. Sharks, rays, and thousands of fish swim overhead and beside you, creating a magical fish-eye view that you will not forget.
This tunnel experience allows visitors to observe the movements of marine animals in their habitat from a very close vantage point, making it a favorite spot for photographers and families wanting to create lasting memories.
Discover the Underwater Zoo
Beyond the main aquarium tank lies the Underwater Zoo, a fascinating section that extends the aquatic adventure by showcasing a variety of other animals. This part is home to creatures that you might not expect in a typical aquarium, such as giant otters, piranhas, and an impressive giant crocodile named King Croc, weighing over 750 kilograms and measuring more than 5 meters long.
The zoo also houses several species of exotic fish, insects, amphibians, and reptiles, giving visitors a broader perspective on life beneath and near the water’s surface. It is an educational journey that helps visitors understand how diverse and interconnected aquatic ecosystems really are.
Unique Experiences You Cannot Miss
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo offers much more than just observing animals behind glass. It has a range of exciting activities designed to bring you closer to marine life in unforgettable ways.
Visitors can enjoy a glass-bottom boat ride that lets them glide over the aquarium tank on a boat with a clear glass bottom, offering a fresh and exciting viewpoint of the fish swimming beneath them.
There is also a mermaid experience, perfect for kids or anyone who has ever dreamed of being a mermaid. Guests can get a mermaid makeover and pose for photos, adding a magical twist to the visit.
For the adventurous, there is a snorkeling cage experience that lets you snorkel safely inside a cage surrounded by sharks and other sea creatures in the main tank. It is an exhilarating way to feel truly immersed in the underwater world.
For the ultimate adventure, visitors can take the shark dive. Equipped with an oxygen tank, you can dive right into the tank and swim alongside the sand tiger sharks. It is safe, guided, and unforgettable.
These hands-on experiences provide visitors with unique memories and deeper connections to the ocean’s wonders.
Planning Your Visit: Ticket Prices and Options
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo offers a variety of ticket options depending on how much you want to explore and what activities you want to enjoy. Here is a quick overview of ticket pricing to help you plan.
Standard entry tickets give you access to the main aquarium and the underwater zoo. Prices typically start at around AED 199 on weekdays and AED 209 on weekends.
The ultimate experience ticket is for those wanting the full adventure. It includes access to all the activities like shark diving, snorkeling, and the glass-bottom boat ride. The price is about AED 299 per person.
Tickets can be bought on-site at Dubai Mall, but it is highly recommended to book online in advance to avoid long queues and secure the best prices. Booking online also gives you more flexibility in choosing the package that best suits your interests and schedule.
How to Get to Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Getting to this incredible attraction is very easy due to its prime location inside Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping and entertainment centers. Here are some convenient ways to reach the aquarium.
By metro, take the Dubai Metro Red Line and exit at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station. From there, it is just a short walk to Dubai Mall, with clear signs directing you to the aquarium.
Several bus routes serve the area around Dubai Mall, including numbers 27, 28, 29, 30, 50, and 81. If you are coming from a popular attraction like Dubai Frame, the nearest bus stop is Al Jafiliya, within walking distance to the mall.
If you prefer driving, Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) leads directly to Dubai Mall. The mall offers ample parking space with clear signs to designated parking areas. Once inside, follow the directions to Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
Other Nearby Attractions You Can Visit
Since the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is located inside Dubai Mall, you have easy access to some of Dubai’s most famous landmarks.
Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is right next door, offering incredible panoramic views from its observation decks.
The Dubai Fountain is a spectacular water, music, and light show located outside the mall, providing a perfect way to end your day.
Dubai Opera is nearby on Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard and hosts world-class performances.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium, located at Atlantis The Palm, offers a different theme and an immersive marine experience.
For those looking for the ultimate underwater thrill, Deep Dive Dubai is the world’s deepest diving pool and offers diving experiences for all skill levels.
Why Should You Visit Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo?
There are many reasons to include the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo in your travel plans. For one, it is not just an aquarium but a full-scale marine adventure offering educational insights, thrilling activities, and a chance to see rare and fascinating animals up close.
Families will love the variety of experiences suited for children of all ages. Marine enthusiasts will be amazed by the diversity and scale of the collection, especially the unique sand tiger sharks. Photographers and social media lovers will find countless stunning photo opportunities.
Above all, it is a place that sparks curiosity and respect for marine life, inspiring visitors to appreciate and protect the underwater world.
Tips for a Great Visit
To make the most out of your trip, here are some handy tips.
Buy tickets online ahead of time to avoid waiting in line and possibly save money.
Visit on weekdays to enjoy a less crowded and more relaxed experience.
Plan for at least two to three hours to explore the aquarium and zoo fully.
Wear comfortable shoes since there is a fair amount of walking involved.
Bring a camera or smartphone because the aquarium offers many beautiful scenes and memorable moments.
Check weather and opening hours before your visit, especially if you plan on combining this with other outdoor activities.
Conclusion
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is a standout attraction in Dubai, offering visitors a chance to dive into the wonders of the marine world without leaving the city. From the massive main tank filled with thousands of creatures to the exciting interactive experiences, it is a place where both education and entertainment come together beautifully.
Whether you are visiting Dubai for the first time or are a returning traveler, do not miss the chance to explore this amazing underwater world. Book your tickets, gather your family or friends, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
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