Have you discovered the mesmerising Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo hidden within our very own Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai? As you descend a 48-metre long tunnel on underground, the Dubai Aquarium unfolds in front your eyes with its 10 million-litre tank , watch out for the sand tiger sharks! Our Thrillark tickets to Dubai Aquarium provide access to attractions like the Aquarium Tunnel, Underwater Zoo, Behind the Scenes Tour, Underwater Observatory, Submersible Simulator, Aquarium Glass Bottom Boat Ride, VRZoo 360, and Fish Feeding. Explore the many eco systems like the Rainforest, Rocky Shore, Living Ocean environments, and more on level 2. Encounter a diverse marine life range, from sharks and otters to catfish and jellyfish. You can even meet the famous crocodile and shark up close. For an extra thrill, opt for a glass-bottom boat ride and fish feeding. This immersive experience, blending the rainforest, zoo, and tunnel, offers a marine adventure second only to.. well nothing, unless you are a certain red haired Disney Princess from kingdom of Atlantica.
Things to do in Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Shark Walker (cage) : Step back and stand in awe of the 33,000 inhabitants of the vast 10-million-litre tank. But that’s not all, with these Aquarium tickets, you can swim alongside the planet’s supreme predators. Did you know? This aquarium stands is one of the globe’s largest suspended aquariums and is home to over 33,000 creatures from the depths of the ocean and the icy glaciers. Within the tank there are over 400 ferocious sharks and friendly manta rays, including the most exotic shiver of sand tiger sharks.
Cage Snorkelling : Here’s an opportunity for you to dive into the million-litre tank without the traditional diving gear weighing you down. Suitable for ages kids and no prior experience is required. You can experience the thrill of being at arms length from the 70 diffirent marine species that will be floating upto you all within a secure cage. It’s a weird and crazy experience when you think about how the tables are turned with this one, where you are in the cage and they come visit you! All you gotta do is don the snorkelling gear, enter the protective cage, and smile! The manta rays are super cute up close.
Scuba Diving : New to diving? take your next step here at PADI. Did you know that there’s a Scuba Diver program at Dubai Aquarium? In collaboration with Al Boom Diving, you can now dive into the wonders of scuba diving within this mesmerising setting. They’ve sessions in the afternoon and evening which includes theory, safety instructions, and skills in a secure enclosure. Master the art of diving as dive into this aquarium for an immersive experience.
Shark Diving : If you are a diver with an edge, at the Dubai Aquarium you can swim alongside Sand Tiger Sharks, Reef Sharks, Leopard Sharks, Tawny Nurse Sharks, Giant Groupers, Stingrays, and a diverse array of marine species during your diving adventure, offered in partnership with Al Boom Diving. With only three shark dive sessions available daily, each accommodating up to four divers, you’re in for an exclusive experience. A certified divemaster and dive instructor will be by your side, providing guidance and assistance throughout your underwater journey. The package includes a complete set of diving equipment, with the option to purchase swimsuits separately. Certified divers can dive right in with their recognised dive institution certification, while non-certified divers can partake in scuba adventures by completing a brief Discover Scuba programme in collaboration with the partner, Al Boom Diving.
VR Zoo : They have journeyed across the globe to record endangered species within their native environments using immersive VR technology. Become a part of a gorilla family in Uganda’s Great Impenetrable Forest, glide alongside massive whale sharks in the pristine Maldives waters, and trace the footsteps of elephants through the lush savannas of South Africa.
Experiences at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Aquarium Tank : Within the depths of The Dubai Aquarium reside a multitude of aquatic creatures, encompassing more than 140 different species. Housing over 300 sharks and rays, this tank is home to an extensive assembly of sand tiger sharks, constituting one of the most substantial collections worldwide. And you have various opportunities to engage with the primary aquarium tank, which has dimensions and height that makes you feel like you are inside a giant bubble deep under the ocean.
Aquarium Tunnel : On the lower level of Dubai Mall, this 48-metre tunnel offers a 270-degree panoramic perspective, situated 11 metres beneath the tank’s surface. This setting is ideal for capturing photographs as marine inhabitants gracefully swim directly above, creating an enchanting photo opportunity.
Underwater Zoo : Explore the Underwater Zoo and delve into the captivating realm of creatures that inhabit our rivers and oceans. Positioned on Level 2, just above the aquarium tank, the Underwater Zoo guides you across three distinct ecological zones: rainforest, rocky shore, and living ocean. Be on the lookout for these fascinating aquatic inhabitants within the Underwater Zoo: otters, piranhas, lionfish, giant spider crabs, seahorses, garden eels, archerfish, water rats, paddlefish, cichlids, and an array of other remarkable aquatic animals showcased in 40 separate aquatic displays.
Animal Encounters at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
King Croc Encounter: Meet a colossal 40-year-old crocodile, originally from Australia. It weighs a whopping 750 kilograms and stretches over 5 metres long. Initially just 2.4 metres long and considered a ‘problem’ by locals, it found a safer home in Queensland, Australia. With regular meals and a protected environment, this crocodile, now known as King Croc, became one of the planet’s most fearsome reptiles. And there’s more to come—King Croc is expected to grow even bigger over the next 50 years. He’s not alone; he shares his habitat with ‘Queen Croc,’ an impressive 80-year-old female companion. These creatures are true marvels of nature.
Penguin Encounter : Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is proud to host 16 charming Gentoo penguins, evenly divided between 8 males and 8 females. As part of the Aqua Nursery experience tickets, a visit to the “Penguin Cove” is included, serving as an introductory step until the upcoming “Penguin Encounter” opens in early August. This exciting new experience grants visitors the opportunity to enter the Penguin Cove habitat, getting up close and personal with the lively Gentoo penguin colony, all while gaining insights into their captivating natural behaviours.
Otter Encounter : The tiniest among the 13 otter species and originally from Asia, these otters are a unique feature at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Visitors have the opportunity to explore the otters’ living space with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour and engage with these adorable and charming creatures. Additionally, a special educational presentation on otters is available. The facility has also initiated an active otter breeding programme, demonstrating its dedication to their preservation and collaborating closely with conservationists, local communities, wildlife groups, and governmental bodies to support otter protection efforts.
Ray Encounter : At Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, you have the fantastic opportunity to interact with and feed 50 rays, experiencing the thrill of meeting these graceful creatures up close. Come to our specially crafted ray feeding platform, where you can hand-feed our fearless Eagle Rays and Cownose Rays. It’s a truly remarkable experience as these curious and gentle beings emerge from the water to accept fish from your hands. Rays are truly wondrous creatures, and feeding them is entirely safe and guaranteed to leave you with a delightful grin.
Shark Trainer Encounter : This family-oriented adventure provides an educational opportunity for guests to learn about various shark species and the meticulous care they receive at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. The informative content focuses on their habitat, feeding routines, and breeding behaviours. Moreover, visitors have the chance to gain insight into the behind-the-scenes efforts by assisting aquarium personnel in training bamboo sharks and leopard sharks. While wearing waterproof waders that immerse them up to their waist, guests can enter the tank for an exclusive “trainer” experience, engaging directly with the sharks.
Feeding Presentations : Dinner Time! Uh-oh, not for you, but for our ocean friends. Watch as they swim up to the windows at Underwater Zoo, Watch as the manta rays and sharks glide through the water to gobble up their meals from the hands of skilled divers during the daily Ray Feeding at 10:30 a.m. Dinnertime at the aquarium is anything but dull with the shark feeding spectacle at 2 p.m., where the fearless divers enter the 10-million-litre tank to nourish resident sharks. For the best view, grab an Aquarium Tunnel ticket, providing a vantage point 11 metres beneath the surface. Animal enthusiasts can engage with knowledgeable educators stationed throughout the facility for insights into otters and piranhas during their daily presentations at 02:30 pm and 02:45 pm, respectively. For a breathtaking underwater view, embark on a guided glass-bottom boat ride, offering a unique perspective of the 10-million-litre tank teeming with over 33,000 aquatic creatures, including sharks and rays. Rides depart from Underwater Zoo on Level 2 every 10 to 20 minutes, with a capacity of 10 passengers per boat. Departure times may vary based on availability.
Dubai mall is a little island of its own, from thrilling adventures to relaxing coffee dates. So the next time you are in Dubai, be prepared to escape into the world of thrills. Have we mentioned the the giant trampoline park ? the indoor park with a Dodge Ball area, Trailblazer, and Slackline?
Essential Information Before you visit Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
- Pets are not allowed inside the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
- There is no specific dress code for Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo; comfortable and casual attire is recommended for the best experience.
- Children under 2 years of age receive free admission, while those aged 2 and above are charged the adult fare.
- Pregnant women and children under 3 years old are not allowed to participate in activities like the Glass Bottom Boat ride or Shark Week exhibit.
- Explorer Pass is also not advised for pregnant women due to safety concerns.
- Please be aware that the last admission is permitted up to 30 minutes before closing time. Remember to bring your cameras to capture marine life during your visit to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo FAQs
How deep is the Dubai Aquarium?
The largest aquarium in Dubai is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, with a 10-million-litre tank and marine species! The 48-meter (157-foot) aquarium tunnel lets visitors observe and experience aquatic life.
Which Dubai aquarium is the largest?
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, with its 10-million-litre tank and teeming marine life, is Dubai’s biggest aquarium.
How long is the Dubai Aquarium tunnel ?
Visit Dubai Aquarium’s nearly 48-meter (157-foot) aquarium tunnel to appreciate the aquatic atmosphere.
What is the difference between the Dubai Aquarium and the Underwater Zoo?
The Dubai Aquarium comprises of vast tanks full of marine life, while the Underwater Zoo has interactive displays with otters, piranhas, penguins and more!
How long does it take to walk around Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo ?
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo takes about 2–3 hours to tour. However, personal preferences might affect length. Marine lovers and inquiring minds should visit this site for its fascinating and instructive experience.
