Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: What Most Visitors Don't Know [2025 Guide]

The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo houses a staggering 10 million liters of water and over 33,000 aquatic animals, making it one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world. When I first visited, I was completely mesmerized by the 48-meter-long tunnel that allowed me to walk through an underwater world teeming with marine life.

What many visitors don't realize about the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is that it's home to some truly remarkable features. For instance, its massive acrylic panel holds the Guinness World Record for being the largest of its kind globally, weighing an impressive 245,000 kg. Additionally, the facility showcases more than 140 species, including approximately 300 sharks and rays, all within the world's largest shopping mall.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything from the three distinct biological zones (Rainforest, Rocky Shore, and Living Ocean) to unique experiences like shark diving and cage snorkeling that many visitors overlook. We'll also share practical tips about ticket options, starting at AED 199, and the best times to visit to maximize your 2-3 hour experience at this underwater wonder.

What makes Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo unique

Stepping into the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo feels like entering another dimension. This magnificent attraction stands out as one of the most extraordinary aquatic displays in the United Arab Emirates and beyond.

One of the world's largest suspended aquariums

The sheer magnitude of this aquatic wonder is breathtaking. The Dubai Aquarium features a colossal 10-million-liter tank that currently holds the title of being the largest suspended aquarium in the world. This architectural marvel measures an impressive 51m x 20m x 11m in size, creating a truly immersive underwater experience.

What makes this structure even more remarkable is its acrylic panel, which once held the Guinness World Record for being the largest of its kind. This massive viewing panel measures 32.8m x 8.3m x 750mm and weighs more than 245,000 kg. As I walk along the exterior, the crystal-clear visibility through this engineering masterpiece allows for unobstructed views of the aquatic life swimming gracefully inside.

Over 140 species and 33,000 marine animals

The biodiversity within the Dubai Aquarium is truly astounding. The facility houses more than 140 different aquatic species, creating a vivid tapestry of marine life that few other aquariums can match. Altogether, approximately 33,000 aquatic creatures call this place home.

Perhaps most impressive is the shark collection. The aquarium boasts nearly 400 sharks and rays, making it home to one of the world's largest collections of Sand Tiger Sharks. Furthermore, the diversity extends beyond just sharks:

• Majestic rays gliding through the water
• Colorful schools of pelagic fish
• Fascinating moray eels hiding among the rocks
• Various other exotic marine species

Each zone of the aquarium offers a different glimpse into underwater ecosystems, with every area carefully designed to showcase the natural behaviors of its inhabitants.

Located inside Dubai Mall

Surprisingly, this entire underwater kingdom exists within the Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping centers. This strategic location makes the Dubai Aquarium & Dubai Underwater Zoo uniquely accessible to visitors on any Dubai trip. Essentially, you can go from shopping for luxury brands to standing face-to-face with sharks in just minutes.

The Aquarium Dubai forms a central feature in the mall's 'Waterworld' area, creating a stunning focal point surrounded by shops and restaurants. This unusual juxtaposition of retail therapy and marine exploration is distinctly Dubai – combining the extraordinary with the everyday in spectacular fashion.

The location within Dubai Mall consequently makes it easy to combine your aquarium visit with other nearby attractions, including Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain, creating an unforgettable day of exploration in downtown Dubai.

You can discover more in our Dubai travel guide.

Top attractions you shouldn’t miss

Exploring the Dubai Underwater Zoo is an adventure filled with jaw-dropping sights. During your trip to Dubai I've discovered several must-see attractions that create unforgettable memories.

Aquarium Tunnel: 48-meter immersive walk

The centerpiece of any visit is undoubtedly the 48-meter tunnel that offers a 270-degree view of marine life. As I walked through this transparent passage, sharks glided silently overhead while colorful fish darted around me. The tunnel's design creates the illusion of being underwater without getting wet, making it perfect for visitors of all ages.

Underwater Zoo: Rainforest, Rocky Shore, Living Ocean

Beyond the main tank, the Underwater Zoo showcases three distinct ecological zones. The Rainforest area features otters and piranhas, while the Rocky Shore hosts penguins and other cold-water species. Meanwhile, the Living Ocean section displays jellyfish and various tropical fish. Each zone recreates natural habitats through meticulous environmental controls and expert aquascaping.

King Croc: One of the world's largest reptiles

The legendary King Croc measures over 5 meters long and weighs more than 750 kg! This massive saltwater crocodile came from Australia and now resides in a specially designed habitat. Standing before this prehistoric-looking creature, I was awestruck by its sheer size and powerful presence.

Penguin Cove: Gentoo penguins in a temperature-controlled habitat

The Penguin Cove houses adorable Gentoo penguins in a carefully maintained environment kept at a chilly 4°C. These charismatic birds waddle about, dive, and swim with surprising agility. Their feeding sessions are particularly entertaining as they dash for fish with remarkable enthusiasm.

Glass Bottom Boat Ride

For a different perspective, the Glass Bottom Boat Ride lets you float above 33,000 marine animals while staying completely dry. The clear panel beneath your feet offers views of sharks, rays, and countless fish species swimming just inches away – a thrilling experience that provides unique photo opportunities.

VR Zoo and interactive exhibits

The VR Zoo takes the experience to another level with cutting-edge technology that lets you "swim" alongside virtual marine creatures. Interactive touch pools allow hands-on encounters with starfish and other gentle sea creatures, while educational stations throughout explain marine conservation efforts and ecosystem relationships in engaging ways.

These attractions combine to create an immersive Dubai tour through aquatic worlds that appeals to both wildlife enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Each offers a distinctive experience that showcases different aspects of marine life, making the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo much more than just a standard aquarium visit.

Hidden experiences most visitors overlook

Beyond the main exhibits that dazzle most visitors, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo harbors several extraordinary experiences that remain hidden gems. These lesser-known attractions offer intimate encounters with marine life that truly elevate your trip to Dubai.

Behind-the-scenes tour of aquarium operations

Most visitors don't realize that nearly half of any aquarium is dedicated to back-of-house facilities. The behind-the-scenes tour reveals fascinating operational areas including life support systems that maintain water quality, quarantine facilities, and food preparation zones. I was amazed to discover coral growing tanks, seahorse breeding areas, and sea jelly cultivation during my tour. This exclusive look at marine conservation efforts provides educational insights that deepen your appreciation for the aquarium's mission.

Feeding sessions: sharks, rays, otters, and piranhas

Daily feeding presentations offer captivating glimpses into animal behaviors. The schedule includes:

• Shark Presentation: daily at 14:00
• Otter Presentation: daily at 13:30
• Sloth Presentation: daily at 16:00

The ray feeding experience stands out as truly special—you can hand-feed gentle Eagle Rays and Cownose Rays while wearing provided waders and gloves. These interactive sessions run at 11:00, 13:00, 15:00, 17:00, and 19:00.

Shark Dive and Cage Snorkeling for non-certified divers

For certified divers aged 10 and above, shark dives offer close encounters with Sand Tiger, Reef, Leopard, and Tawny Nurse sharks. Not certified? No problem. A short Discover Scuba program prepares you for this thrilling experience.

Alternatively, cage snorkeling welcomes adventurers as young as 8 years old. Up to four people can snorkel in a secure cage out marine conservation. These educational experiences combine hands-on exploration with thought-provoking discussions about protecting ocean ecosystems. Moreover, the aquarium's educational programs offer students and guests dsimultaneously, experiencing the thrill of swimming among 300+ sharks and rays without scuba certification.

Shark Walker: Stay dry while walking underwater

Perhaps the most remarkable hidden experience is the Shark Walker. Wearing an oxygenated helmet, you can walk along the transparent acrylic floor of a purpose-built cage suspended in the aquarium. This experience requires no certification and is available to anyone over 12 years old. Sessions run at 13:00 and every half hour from 15:00 to 19:30 daily.

Touch tanks and educational zones

The interactive Touch Tank allows visitors of all ages to gently handle sea creatures while learning about marine conservation. These educational experiences combine hands-on exploration with thought-provoking discussions about protecting ocean ecosystems. Moreover, the aquarium's educational programs offer students and guests deeper insights into marine habitats and conservation efforts.

Planning your visit: tips and ticket options

To make the most of your Dubai Aquarium adventure, proper planning is essential. After exploring numerous attractions in this underwater paradise, I've gathered practical tips to help you navigate your Dubai tour smoothly.

Best time to visit to avoid crowds

For a more peaceful experience, plan your trip to Dubai during weekday mornings when visitor numbers are significantly lower. The Dubai underwater zoo tends to be busiest between 5 PM to 6 PM, so avoiding these peak hours is advisable. The winter months from November to March offer pleasant weather, though this is also peak tourist season in Dubai. If you're visiting during summer, try entering the aquarium early in the morning or late evening to dodge the crowds.

The Aquarium Dubai operates 365 days a year with consistent hours: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM Monday through Friday, while Saturday and Sunday hours extend until midnight. The last admission is typically 45 minutes before closing.

Ticket types: Basic, Explorer, Penguin Cove

Several ticket options cater to different preferences:

• Regular Pass (AED 199): Includes access to the aquarium tunnel, Underwater Zoo, and Penguin Cove
• Ultimate Experience Package (AED 269-299): Adds penguin interaction, glass boat tour, and animal feeding experiences

Children under two years enter free, making this an affordable family outing.

Accessibility and age restrictions

The Aquarium Dubai is wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators available for visitors with mobility challenges. Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult, and pregnant women may be prohibited from certain activities due to safety reasons. All visitors must show valid ID proof before entering.

How to get there: metro, bus, car

The aquarium is conveniently located in Dubai Mall, with multiple transportation options:

First, the Dubai Metro's Red Line stops at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station, approximately a 5-10 minute covered walk from the mall. Second, busses 27, 28, 29, and 50 drop passengers at Dubai Mall bus stop, just two minutes from the entrance. Finally, if driving, free parking is available at the Financial Center Road entrance.

Nearby attractions: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain

Given the central location, several iconic attractions are within walking distance. The Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, offers breathtaking views from 585 meters up. Meanwhile, the Dubai Fountain performs spectacular water shows synchronized with music every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM. Both attractions are perfect companions to your aquarium visit, creating a full day of unforgettable experiences in Downtown Dubai.

There are Many More Things to Do in Dubai, Inquire Now and Plan Memorable Dubai Tours!

FAQs

1. How long should I plan for my visit to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo?

 Plan for about 2-3 hours to fully experience the attraction. The Aquarium Tunnel takes 15-30 minutes, while the Underwater Zoo can take 45 minutes to 1.5 hours. Additional time may be needed for presentations, shows, and activities like the Glass Bottom Boat ride.

2. Is the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo suitable for families? 

Absolutely! The aquarium offers a range of experiences suitable for all ages, including interactive exhibits, feeding sessions, and educational zones. Children under 2 enter for free, making it an affordable family outing. However, children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult.

3. What unique experiences does the Dubai Aquarium offer? 

The aquarium offers several unique experiences, including shark diving for certified divers, cage snorkeling for non-certified visitors, and the Shark Walker experience where you can walk underwater while staying dry. There are also behind-the-scenes tours and interactive feeding sessions with various marine animals.

4. What should I wear when visiting the Dubai Aquarium? 

Casual, appropriate clothing is allowed during the tour. Beachwear is not permitted. Comfortable shoes are recommended as you'll be walking and standing for extended periods.

5. How does the Dubai Aquarium compare to other aquariums? 

The Dubai Aquarium stands out for its sheer size and diversity. It houses over 140 species and 33,000 marine animals in one of the world's largest suspended aquariums. Its location inside Dubai Mall, coupled with nearby attractions like Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain, makes it a unique and convenient experience for visitors on any Dubai tour.