The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is one of the most exciting attractions in Dubai and a must-visit for anyone in the city.
It is located in the Dubai Mall, where you can see thousands of sea creatures at a very close distance. You can walk through a 48-meter glass tunnel with sharks, rays and colourful fish surrounding you. There is an underwater zoo, full of surprises, such as cute penguins around and the giant King Croc. And in case you are an adventure lover, you can go underwater swimming, dive with sharks and even take a ride in a glass-bottom boat.
It is a family-friendly and couple-friendly attraction in Dubai. The best time to visit is during the months of November to March, when the weather is favourable and ideal for visiting. It’s not just an aquarium, it’s an unforgettable experience.
Let’s look into it so you can plan your visit.
Where is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Located? (Map, Directions & Access)
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is right in the middle of The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai. If you are using the Dubai Metro, take the Red Line and get off at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station. From there, you can walk through an air-conditioned walkway that takes you straight into the mall.
If you are driving, just type Dubai Mall Aquarium into your GPS. There are many parking spaces available. You can also reach it by public bus; routes 27, 28, and 29 stop near the mall.
The aquarium is very close to famous places like the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, so you can see many sights in one day. It is one of the easiest attractions in Dubai to visit.
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Timings & Best Time to Visit 2025
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo timings usually vary between 10:00 AM and 11:00 PM during the weekdays (Sunday-Thursday), 12:00 PM during the weekends and Saturdays.
Want to avoid the crowds? Go there during weekday mornings when it is less busy and is more relaxed. When planning your trip to Dubai, the best time to visit Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is during November and March. The weather in these months is beautiful as it is mild, which makes it the best place to take a mix of indoor and outdoor activities in those areas, such as aquarium and desert safaris with beach trips. Besides, going at sunset will allow you to see the aquarium and then go outside to watch the amazing Dubai Fountain Show.
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Tickets, Prices & Packages
The best thing you can do is to use the internet and book Dubai Aquarium tickets online, it saves you time, sometimes money, and you do not have to spend long queues.
Normal entry costs approximately AED 179, and it comes together with Aquarium Tunnel and Underwater Zoo. The Explorer Experience at AED 239 includes the Penguin Cove and a Behind-the-Scenes Tour.
Want to skip lines? The Line Buster at AED 299 is the VIP line, together with a glass-bottom boat ride. AED 399 is the Ultimate Experience that includes all the attractions and feeding. An Aed 499 Annual Pass is unlimited and provided to frequent visitors. Many tourists are offered Combo Tickets (Dubai Aquarium + Burj Khalifa: AED 350) or the Dubai Pass with a multi-destination discount.
The Dubai Aquarium ticket prices mentioned here are the standard rate. For complete pricing and booking details, you can click here.
Top Attractions in Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo You Can’t Miss
The aquarium is filled with shocking Dubai Aquarium experiences. The Aquarium tunnel provides 270-degree views of underwater scenery, 48 meters long rays and sharks are seen swimming over. Snorkel with huge sand tiger sharks in the Shark Encounter viewing panel.
You can try Cage Snorkelling to roam among thousands of tropical fish without any accidents. Glass Bottom Boat Ride allows you to ride through the sea over sea creatures through glass floors. Visit the Underwater Zoo with otters, piranhas and giant crocodiles in different themed locations. Go to the cute Penguin Cove and observe the playing of Gentoo penguins, King Croc, a huge 5 meters with 750kg salt water crocodile. Explore the Rainforest Zone with exotic reptiles and amphibians. Play the latest VR Zoo deep-sea adventures.
Explore the Night Creatures Zone, which is a mystery zone with bioluminescent species. Each of the sections presents the memorable moments to be remembered in the best time to visit Dubai for adventure.
Unique Animal Encounters & Experiences at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Searching for the once-in-a-lifetime memories? The Penguin Encounter allows you to encounter cute Gentoo penguins in their chilly environment. The Thrill-seekers can use the Shark Dive, where they can swim in safe conditions with sand tiger sharks, fully equipped and under observation.
The Ray Feeding Experience allows you to hand-feed stingrays that are friendly to feed on with the guidance of the experts. Watch the king croc feeding to see this giant predator feed itself up.
Behind-the-Scenes Tour: Have a look at the behind the scenes to understand how thousands of animals are cared for by marine specialists every day. Children are fond of the Junior Aquarist Program, where marine biology is taught by practical work. Cage diving adventure invites an underwater adventure.
Attractions Near Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Once you have visited the Dubai Aquarium, there are numerous fun places to visit. You have the opportunity to climb the Burj Khalifa, the highest structure in the world, and have a spectacular view of the city in its observation deck. The Dubai Fountain Show is an evening performance of water dancing to music. It is even possible to skate at Dubai Mall Ice Rink, which is an Olympic-sized rink in the desert.
To have more adventure, go to VR Park Dubai, which contains more than 30 thrilling virtual reality experiences. Watch a performance at the Dubai Opera, a beautiful theatre in the shape of a dhow. Explore Souk Al Bahar, an Arabian traditional market adjacent to the water with excellent views of the Burj Khalifa.
Go on a leisurely stroll at Dubai Creek Harbour to enjoy a gorgeous skyline, or visit the Museum of the Future to view fantastic futuristic architecture. Burj Park is ideal to spend some time relaxing or picnicking with the Burj Khalifa in the background. All these attractions are within the proximity of the Dubai Mall, and therefore, you can spend a whole day without difficulties.
Hotels Near Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
The are many best family-friendly hotels in Dubai that are close to Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, which offers luxury, comfort, and convenience. For luxurious stays with beautiful views and direct access to the Dubai Mall: Address Downtown, Palace Downtown, Armani Hotel Dubai, Address Boulevard. For, stylish and budget-friendly options: Rove Downtown, Vida Downtown, Manzil Downtown. For 5-star comfort and modern luxury: JW Marriott Marquis, Taj Dubai, Swissôtel Al Murooj. These hotels cater to families, couples, and also for the solo travelers.
| Hotel Name | Distance from Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo |
| Address Downtown | 0.2 km (2-3 min walk) |
| Palace Downtown | 14 min (2.9 km) |
| Armani Hotel Dubai | 9 min (1.4 km) |
| Rove Downtown | 15 min (5.3 km) |
| Vida Downtown | 400 to 600 meters (5-8 min walk) |
| Manzil Downtown | 0.4 km (5-6 min walk) |
| Address Boulevard | 10 min (2.1 km) |
| JW Marriott Marquis | 11 min (4.0 km) |
| Taj Dubai | 11 min (4.5 km) |
| Swissôtel Al Murooj | 8 min (3.6 km) |
Dining & Shopping Near Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
The Dubai Mall offers unlimited food options. These dining options in Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo comprises of the best restaurants in Dubai. Cheesecake Factory serves huge portions with over 250 dishes, including legendary cheesecakes. Social House provides international cuisine and views of the Dubai Fountain. P.F. Chang’s features Asian-American dishes like orange chicken and lettuce wraps. Eataly blends Italian restaurants and gourmet marketplace shopping.
Din Tai Fung is famous for xiaolongbao soup dumplings. Tulum Restaurant offers Mexican flavors with city views. Texas Roadhouse serves hand-cut steaks and fall-off-the-bone ribs. Five Guys offers customizable burgers and fries. For shopping, Fashion Avenue has Dior, Gucci, Chanel, while Souk Al Bahar offers traditional crafts, jewellery, spices, and souvenirs.
Tourist Tips for Exploring the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
You can buy your tickets online in advance to save money and avoid long queues. Go on weekdays in the morning to have a quiet environment and take photographs easily. Explore the downtown areas with a Dubai Pass or a combo in order to save. Take a camera to the photogenic underwater tunnel. Plan 2-3 hours to visit the aquarium tunnel and underwater zoo. Feeding of sharks, rays, and divers shows. Walk in comfortable shoes, grip children by their hands in the busy places and go to the local places like Burj Khalifa and the Dubai fountain.
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is a lifetime experience for the family, tourists and adventure seekers. Marine life showcases and other nearby attractions, such as Burj Khalifa is a pleasant and stress-free environment that needs careful planning, ticketing, and visiting during the best season. Enjoy!
FAQs about Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Q: Where is the Dubai Aquarium located?
A: The Dubai Aquarium is located inside The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, near Burj Khalifa.
Q: What are the Dubai Aquarium timings?
A: Dubai Aquarium timings are 10 AM to 11 PM daily, midnight on weekends.
Q: How much are Dubai Aquarium tickets?
A: Dubai Aquarium tickets start from AED 179 for standard entry tickets.
Q: Is the Dubai Aquarium worth visiting?
A: Absolutely, it’s among the top family-friendly attractions in Dubai.
Q: Can I buy Dubai Aquarium tickets online?
A: Yes, online booking offers discounts and skips queues.
Q: How long should you spend at the Dubai Aquarium?
A: Plan 2-3 hours for a complete exploration experience.
Q: What animals can I see there?
A: Sharks, rays, penguins, otters, crocodiles, tropical fish, and many more.
Q: Is photography allowed inside?
A: Yes, photography is permitted except in restricted feeding zones.
Q: When is the best time to visit Dubai for adventure?
A: November to March offers perfect weather conditions and is the best time to visit Dubai for adventure.
Q: Are there restaurants near the Dubai Aquarium?
A: Yes, dozens of dining options throughout the Dubai Mall and near the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
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