Diving into Wonder: Exploring the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Situated within the vibrant Dubai Mall in the bustling Downtown Dubai area is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Found at ground level, this attraction features a walk-in aquarium spanning a 48-metre tunnel. Observe the captivating display of exotic marine species in the colossal 10 million-litre tank, renowned for housing one of the largest sand tiger shark collections worldwide. Dubai Aquarium tickets grant access to multiple sections of the zoo, including the Aquarium Tunnel, Underwater Zoo, Behind the Scenes tour, Underwater Observatory, Submersible Simulator, Aquarium Glass Bottom Boat Ride, VRZoo 360, Underwater Observatory, and Fish Feeding experiences. On the second level, visitors encounter the rainforest, Rocky Shore Living Ocean environments, and the Underwater Zoo. This diverse ecosystem is home to a variety of creatures, including sharks, otters, catfish, jellyfish, and an astonishing array of fish. It’s a remarkable fusion of human ingenuity and natural habitats, offering a near-authentic experience of underwater life reminiscent of actual scuba diving encounters. Don’t miss the chance to encounter the famous crocodile and massive sharks. For an extra fee, you can also partake in a glass-bottom boat ride and witness fish feeding. The combination of the rainforest, zoo, and tunnel provides an unparalleled marine adventure, second only to being submerged in the actual sea.

Aquarium Tank : The Dubai Aquarium features a massive 10-million-litre tank that ranks among the globe’s biggest suspended aquariums. Within its depths 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. Visitors have various opportunities to engage with the primary aquarium tank, which boasts dimensions of 51 metres in length, 20 metres in width, and 11 metres in height.

Aquarium Tunnel : Positioned on the lower level of Dubai Mall, the 48-metre walk-through 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.

Shark Feeding : Experience an intimate encounter with these captivating predators, immersing yourself in a mix of fear, excitement, and thrill as you get remarkably close to the sharks. Dubai Aquarium and the underwater zoo provide an exceptional opportunity for a close-up shark feeding encounter. Witness the feeding frenzy unfold as divers entice the sharks with buckets of fish. Safely ensconced in your enclosure, you’ll have the chance to observe the sharks from just a few centimetres away. This exhilarating underwater escapade, lasting 30 minutes, is followed by an exclusive peek into the shark feeding programme at Dubai’s aquarium and underwater zoo.

Shark Walker (cage) : Engage in a personal and intimate encounter with the 33,000 inhabitants of the vast 10-million-litre tank. Join us daily at the Dubai Mall Aquarium for a unique opportunity to stroll alongside the planet’s supreme predators while wearing an oxygen-infused helmet that enables underwater breathing. This aquarium stands as one of the globe’s largest suspended aquariums and serves as the residence for over 33,000 creatures. Within the tank dwell upwards of 400 sharks and rays, including the most extensive assemblage of sand tiger sharks globally.

Cage Snorkelling : Participate in the Cage Snorkelling Experience, which offers a chance for visitors to immerse themselves in the immense 10 million-litre tank without the need for traditional diving gear. No prior experience is required, and this activity is accessible to individuals aged 8 years and older. For those who prefer not to engage in full-scale diving, a similar sense of excitement can be enjoyed within a secure cage environment. Simply don snorkelling equipment, enter the protective cage within the aquarium, and observe more than 70 distinct marine species, including a diverse array of 300 sharks and rays, up close and personal.

Scuba Diving : If you’re intrigued by diving but new to it, PADI’s Discover Scuba Diver program is tailor-made for you. Partnering with Al Boom Diving, you can embark on an exciting journey within the mesmerising Dubai Aquarium. Uncover the marvels of Discover Scuba Diving amid the breathtaking Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo setting. Sessions begin at 1:00 p.m., 3:00 p.m., and 5:00 p.m. Following a concise theory session, your dive instructor will guide you through essential safety guidelines and skills while inside a secure enclosure. Once you’ve mastered these basics, you’ll venture into the expansive 10 million-litre aquarium for your immersive dive.

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.

Animal Encounters : Encountering the King Croc stands out as a standout moment within the zoo. Weighing an impressive 750 kg and measuring over 5 metres in length, this remarkable creature has been transported all the way from Queensland, Australia, to Dubai. Witness this colossal predator in its habitat, an experience bound to send shivers down your spine. Delve into the world of the UAE’s Nocturnal Creatures, a 200-square-meter exhibit designed as an educational journey through the indigenous species of the UAE. Witness desert inhabitants like oversized camel spiders, bats, toads, and more, offering a unique opportunity to observe these creatures up close.

• Pets are not permitted within the aquarium premises.
• The operating hours of the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo are MON–THU: 10:00 AM–11:00 PM; FRI–SUN: 10:00 AM–12:00 AM.
• There is no specific dress code for the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
•  It’s recommended to dress comfortably and casually for the best experience.
• Children under the age of 2 can enter the venue for free.
• For guests aged 2 and above, the charges are the same as the adult fare.
• Activities like the Glass Bottom Boat Ride and Shark Week Exhibit are not accessible to pregnant women or children under 3 years.
• Explorer Pass and VIP Pass are advised against for pregnant women due to safety considerations.
• Please be aware that the last entry is permitted 30 minutes prior to the closing time.
• Remember to bring your cameras to capture the captivating marine life at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
• Keep in mind that Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo tickets are non-refundable. 
• Once purchased, they cannot be canceled. 
• However, you have the flexibility to plan your visit within 6 months from the date of purchase.

What are the operating hours of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo?

The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is open from Monday to Thursday, 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., and from Friday to Sunday, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m.

Is there a dress code for visiting the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo?
No, there is no specific dress code. It’s recommended to dress comfortably and casually for an enjoyable experience.

Are pets allowed inside the aquarium?
No, pets are not allowed within the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo premises.

Is there an entry fee for children under 2 years of age?
Children under 2 years of age can enter the venue for free.

How much do guests above the age of 2 need to pay for admission?
Guests above the age of 2 are charged the same fare as adults.

Can pregnant women and children under 3 years participate in all activities?
Pregnant women and children under 3 years old are not permitted to partake in activities such as the Glass Bottom Boat Ride and Shark Week Exhibit.

Are the Explorer Pass and VIP Pass recommended for pregnant women?
No, due to safety reasons, pregnant women are advised against using the Explorer Pass and VIP Pass.

What is the last admission time for visitors?
The last admission is allowed 30 minutes prior to the closing time.

Can visitors bring cameras inside the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo?
Yes, visitors are encouraged to carry cameras to capture the marine life, making their experience memorable.

Are tickets for the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo refundable?
No, the tickets are non-refundable once purchased. However, visitors can plan their visit within 6 months from the date of purchase.