Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Located inside The Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is one of the world's largest suspended aquariums and a top family-friendly attraction. Visitors can view a massive aquatic habitat from the Aquarium Gallery, walk through a long acrylic tunnel, explore themed zoo levels housing freshwater and marine species, and book optional experiences such as cage snorkeling, shark dives, and glass-bottom boat rides.
Location
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Duration
Typical visit: 1–2 hours for the Gallery + Underwater Zoo. Add 2–4 hours if you include premium experiences (dives, boat rides, behind-the-scenes tours).
Best Time to Visit
Open year-round (indoor attraction). Best times: weekday mornings or late evenings to avoid Dubai Mall peak crowds. Cooler months (October–April) are popular in Dubai overall, but the aquarium itself is climate-controlled.
Pricing
Approximate pricing (subject to change):
- Basic Aquarium Gallery & Tunnel: AED 100–150 per adult.
- Underwater Zoo (combined with gallery): AED 150–220 per adult.
- Premium experiences (shark dive, cage snorkeling, glass-bottom boat, behind-the-scenes): AED 350–900 depending on experience.
- Children/senior discounts and combo/family tickets often available. Prices vary by season and vendor; book online in advance for best rates.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Massive suspended aquarium: view from the Aquarium Gallery with a huge acrylic viewing panel.
48-metre acrylic tunnel: walk-through tunnel giving 270° views of sharks, rays and schools of fish.
Themed Underwater Zoo: habitats such as Rainforest, Rocky Shore and Living Ocean with interactive exhibits.
Optional adventure experiences: cage snorkeling, shark diving, glass-bottom boat rides and behind-the-scenes tours.
Great for families & photographers: close-up encounters and photo opportunities with diverse marine life.
Itinerary
Arrival & tickets
Collect pre-booked tickets or buy at counter. Check schedules for any timed experiences.
Aquarium Gallery & Tunnel
View the main tank through the gallery and walk the long acrylic tunnel for immersive 270° views.
Underwater Zoo
Explore themed zones (Rainforest, Rocky Shore, Living Ocean). Good spot for kids and interactive displays.
Optional experiences (book in advance)
Cage snorkeling, shark dive, glass-bottom boat or behind-the-scenes tours; durations and age/health restrictions apply.
Exit & nearby attractions
Combine visit with The Dubai Mall attractions, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Fountain shows in Downtown Dubai.
Safety Requirements
Follow staff instructions and posted safety signage at all times.
Supervise children closely—some areas have low barriers and viewing platforms.
Diving/snorkeling experiences have medical and age restrictions; disclose any health conditions and follow pre-dive briefings.
Do not tap on the acrylic or attempt to feed animals.
Accessibility: many areas are wheelchair accessible; ask staff for assistance if needed.
Tips
Buy tickets online and reserve timed experiences in advance to secure slots and save money.
Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and get better photo opportunities.
Combine your trip with Burj Khalifa tickets or a visit to Dubai Fountain for a full Downtown Dubai day.
Bring a camera with a polarizing filter or clean lens to reduce reflections on acrylic panels.
Check height/age limits and fitness requirements before booking adventure experiences.
Allow extra time if you plan to shop or dine in The Dubai Mall after the visit.
