Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Located in the Dubai Mall, the aquarium and zoo is home to over 140 species of aquatic animals, making it one of the largest aquariums in the world. In this article, we will explore the history, design, and attractions of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
History and Design:
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo was opened in 2008 as part of the Dubai Mall’s expansion project. The aquarium was designed by a team of experts from around the world, including marine biologists, architects, and engineers. The aquarium is built in a cylindrical shape, with a height of 10 meters and a diameter of 32.8 meters.
The aquarium is home to over 10 million liters of water and features a 270-degree walkthrough tunnel, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with the marine life. The underwater zoo is located on the second level of the aquarium and features several exhibits, including the Rainforest, the Rocky Shore, and the Living Ocean.
Attractions:
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is home to over 140 species of aquatic animals, including over 400 sharks and rays. The aquarium offers a range of attractions and experiences for visitors of all ages, making it a popular destination for families and tourists.
One of the most popular attractions at the aquarium is the Shark Tunnel, a 48-meter walkthrough tunnel that takes visitors through the heart of the aquarium. The tunnel is home to several species of sharks, including the Sand Tiger Shark, the Blacktip Shark, and the Grey Reef Shark.
Another popular attraction at the aquarium is the Underwater Zoo, which is located on the second level of the aquarium. The zoo features several exhibits, including the Rainforest, which is home to a range of exotic animals, including snakes, spiders, and crocodiles. The Rocky Shore exhibit features several species of penguins, otters, and sea lions, while the Living Ocean exhibit is home to a range of colorful fish and corals.
The aquarium also offers several unique experiences for visitors, including the Shark Dive, a 30-minute underwater experience that allows visitors to swim with the sharks. The aquarium also offers a Glass Bottom Boat tour, which takes visitors on a tour of the aquarium’s main tank, providing a unique perspective of the marine life.
Conservation:
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is committed to conservation and sustainability, and has several programs in place to protect marine life and promote environmental awareness. The aquarium has a dedicated team of marine biologists and veterinarians who work to ensure the health and wellbeing of the marine animals.
The aquarium also has a breeding program in place for several species of marine life, including the Sand Tiger Shark and the Gentoo Penguin. The breeding program helps to ensure the long-term survival of these species and promotes genetic diversity.
In addition to its conservation efforts, the aquarium also promotes environmental awareness through its educational programs and exhibits. The aquarium has several interactive exhibits that teach visitors about marine life and the importance of conservation. The aquarium also offers educational programs for schools and groups, including guided tours and workshops.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai, offering visitors a range of attractions and experiences. With its impressive design, diverse range of marine life, and commitment to conservation and sustainability, the aquarium is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in marine life and environmental awareness.
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FAQ's
DO YOU ALLOW PHOTOGRAPHY AND VIDEO SHOOTING INSIDE DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO?
Yes. We do allow guests to take photographs and videos at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. We also have a professional photography service throughout the journey.However, please note that specific exhibits do not allow flash photography due to the health and safety of the animals. These are marked throughout your journey, and we urge you to respect the same.
CAN I STAY AS LONG AS I WANT?
Yes, you can.
WHAT ARE THE DAILY PRESENTATION TIMES?
We have presentations throughout the day; please ask a staff member for timings.
CAN I RE-ENTER?
No, you cannot. Your ticket is valid for one entry only.
HOW LONG WILL IT TAKE TO EXPERIENCE DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO?
The average time to visit the Aquarium Tunnel is approximately 15 to 30 minutes. Underwater Zoo, located on Level 2, takes about 45 mins – 1.5 hours. This time could increase should you wish to stay and watch presentations/shows. The Glass Bottom Boat ride lasts approximately 15 – 20 minutes. Guests are encouraged to book their Boat Ride before their journey to avoid a long waiting period, and bookings can be made at the entrance of the Glass Bottom Boat ride area on Level 2 at Underwater Zoo.
WILL YOU PROVIDE DISCOUNTS ON SCHOOLS, ORGANIZATIONS, FAMILIES AND EVEN DURING SPECIAL OCCASIONS SUCH AS EID HOLIDAYS, CHRISTMAS?
We offer different promotions throughout the year. Guests can contact our Ticketing staff for further information.
DO YOU HAVE SOUVENIRS THAT WILL BE GIVEN TO THOSE WHO WILL VISIT?
We have souvenirs available for sale at the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo Gifts & Souvenir store, which is located at the exit of Underwater Zoo. A range of T-shirts, gifts, and souvenirs are available for purchase.
DO YOU PROVIDE A TOUR GUIDE FOR THE GENERAL PUBLIC?
We currently do not have a guided tour for guests without prior bookings. Should this be requested, we may be able to accommodate it. We have several Educators available throughout the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo journey for guests to ask questions.Guests can arrange a private tour through our Bookings Officer. However, it is subject to availability, and additional charges apply.
DOES DUBAI AQUARIUM & UNDERWATER ZOO SUPPORT ANY CORRESPONDENCE MARINE COURSES?
Currently, we do not offer any marine courses. We do, however, provide internships for students 16 years and above. Interested applicants can contact interns@thedubaiaquarium.com for further information.


A life time experience at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. This is really beautiful. You get to see a wide variety of marine animals, insects, reptiles and even birds. I was really amazed to see all of these managed well inside the mall. It is beautiful and in Dubai do not miss this place. It is one of the best experiences you can have. I really enjoyed being here and hope to be back again.