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Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo - Dive Into the Depths of the Ocean

I’m fortunate to have easy access to some of the city’s most iconic attractions, and the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo at Dubai Mall is definitely one of the top places to visit. During my visit, I was blown away by the sheer scale and beauty of the aquarium – the 270 degree glass tunnel provides an immersive experience, allowing you to feel like you’re walking beneath the waves as sharks, rays, and schools of fish swim above and around you.

I was also lucky enough to book the behind the scenes tour, which allowed me to learn about the aquarium’s operations, the conservation efforts, and how they care for over 33,000 marine animals. The Underwater Zoo on the top level is equally fascinating, especially the King Croc exhibit, where you can see one of the largest crocodiles in the world. For anyone in Dubai, this aquarium is an absolute must see.

 

History

  • Opened in 2008, Dubai Aquarium was one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world at the time. Located on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall, it was designed to showcase aquatic life from the Arabian Gulf and beyond, and it quickly became a major attraction for both tourists and locals.

  • The aquarium features an impressive 10 million liter tank and is home to over 33,000 marine animals, including whale sharks, stingrays, and giant groupers.

  • In addition to the aquarium itself, the Underwater Zoo on the second level of the Dubai Aquarium was added later, featuring more than 75 species of marine life, including exotic creatures like seahorses, jellyfish, and crocodiles.

Unique Facts

  • World’s Largest Acrylic Panel: The Dubai Aquarium houses the world’s largest acrylic panel, measuring 32.88 meters in length and 8.3 meters in height. This massive panel allows you to walk through the aquarium tunnel, offering a 270 degree view of marine life.

  • Shark Diving: One of the most unique experiences at Dubai Aquarium is the opportunity to go shark diving in the massive tank. If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, this experience allows you to swim with some of the ocean’s most fearsome creatures, under the supervision of a professional diver.

  • King Croc: The King Croc exhibit at the Underwater Zoo is home to one of the world’s largest crocodiles, a massive 5 meter long saltwater crocodile named Clyde, who weighs over 750 kilograms.

  • Behind the Scenes Tour: If you want an even more in depth experience, the behind the scenes tour takes you into the aquarium’s filtration and maintenance areas, where you’ll learn about the care and feeding of the animals. It’s a fascinating experience for anyone interested in marine biology or conservation.

Location

  • Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, UAE

 

Opening Hours

  • Daily: 10 AM – Midnight

 

Best Time to Visit

  • Weekday Mornings: For fewer crowds, I recommend visiting during the weekday mornings. This will allow you to fully appreciate the aquarium without the busy crowds of tourists, especially on weekends and public holidays.

 

Cost of Tickets

  • Basic Entry: AED 120 (includes access to the main aquarium tank).
  • Behind the Scenes Tour: Prices vary, but expect to pay around AED 250 – AED 400 depending on the experience.

Note: Prices are subject to change, and special packages or add ons like the Shark Dive or Glass Bottom Boat Ride may come with additional costs. It’s best to check the Dubai Aquarium’s official website for up to date prices.

 

Facilities Available

  • Aquarium Tunnels: The 270 degree glass tunnel offers an incredible view of marine life swimming all around you. It’s the highlight of the experience and perfect for a stunning photo taking.

  • Underwater Zoo: Located on the second level, the Underwater Zoo is home to various exhibits, including the King Croc, seahorses, and jellyfish. It’s also a great place to learn about conservation efforts and marine species from around the world.

  • Shark Diving: For the adventurous, the Shark Dive allows you to dive into the tank and swim with the sharks, rays, and other marine life. This requires additional booking and is not included with basic entry.

  • Glass Bottom Boat Ride: If you’re looking for a different perspective of the aquarium, the Glass Bottom Boat Ride allows you to float above the tank, watching the fish and sharks swim below your feet.

  • Dining Options: There are several cafes and restaurants within the Dubai Mall offering great food, perfect for refueling after exploring the aquarium. You can also enjoy a meal with views of the aquarium if you opt for certain dining spots.

Additional Insights

What to Do
  • Take the Behind the Scenes Tour: If you’re fascinated by marine life and how an aquarium operates, I highly recommend the Behind the Scenes Tour. You’ll get a unique glimpse into the aquarium’s operations, maintenance, and animal care.

  • Interact with the Penguins: If you have time, don’t miss the opportunity to see the Penguin Encounter, a favorite for kids and adults alike. You can learn about the penguins and see them up close in their specially designed habitat.

  • Shark Diving Experience: For thrill seekers, the Shark Dive is a once in a lifetime experience. It’s a safe and thrilling way to interact with one of the ocean’s most iconic predators.

What Not to Do
  • Skip the Weekends: The weekends and public holidays can get very crowded, which might affect your experience, especially if you’re visiting during peak hours. I’d suggest visiting during weekdays for a more relaxed atmosphere.

  • Ignore the Special Experiences: If you’re at the aquarium for more than just a regular visit, consider booking special experiences like the Shark Dive or Glass Bottom Boat Ride. These add a unique twist to your visit and make it even more memorable.

Personal Tips

  • Book in Advance: Some of the special experiences like the Penguin Encounter or Shark Diving tend to sell out quickly, so it’s always a good idea to book your tickets or activities in advance to secure your spot.

  • Combine With Other Attractions: Dubai Mall has so many attractions within close proximity, such as the Dubai Ice Rink and VR Park. I recommend combining your visit to the aquarium with other nearby attractions for a full day of fun.

  • Bring a Camera: The aquarium tunnel and the Underwater Zoo are filled with fantastic photo opportunities. Be sure to bring a camera or smartphone to capture some of the amazing underwater scenes.

Final Thoughts

The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is a truly spectacular experience, offering a mix of awe inspiring marine life and fascinating educational exhibits. Whether you’re interested in seeing sharks, penguins, or learning about marine conservation, there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to plan ahead, book your tickets in advance, and make the most of your visit by exploring all the unique experiences it offers.