When it comes to Dubai’s must-see attractions, few places combine shopping, adventure, and marine life quite like the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Located in the iconic Dubai Mall, this world-famous attraction is not just an aquarium — it’s a massive underwater world showcasing thousands of aquatic animals, thrilling experiences, and interactive exhibits for all ages. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Dubai or a local looking for an unforgettable day out, this guide covers everything you need to know — from things to do to special experiences and visiting tips.
🌊 Why Visit Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo?
The Dubai Mall Aquarium is one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world, holding over 10 million liters of water and housing over 33,000 aquatic animals. It’s also home to one of the world’s largest collections of sand tiger sharks.
The experience is split into two main parts:
- Dubai Aquarium Tank – A massive viewing panel and a 48-meter-long Aquarium Tunnel where you can walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and tropical fish.
- Underwater Zoo – Located above the main aquarium, this section takes you on a journey through different ecological zones, including Rainforest, Rocky Shore, and Living Ocean.
🐟 Highlights & Attractions
Here’s a breakdown of the main experiences you’ll find inside the Dubai Mall Underwater Zoo:
- The Aquarium Tunnel
Walk through a 270-degree glass tunnel and watch sharks, giant groupers, and rays swim overhead. This is one of the most photographed spots in the Dubai Mall. - Underwater Zoo
Explore three ecological zones:
• Rainforest – Home to piranhas, freshwater stingrays, and giant catfish.
• Rocky Shore – See penguins, otters, and Humboldt penguins up close.
• Living Ocean – Meet jellyfish, seahorses, and various coral reef species. - King Croc
One of the largest reptiles in the world, this 750 kg, 5-meter-long crocodile is a star attraction in the Underwater Zoo. - Penguin Cove
Watch adorable Gentoo penguins in a specially designed icy habitat that replicates Antarctic conditions. - Glass-Bottom Boat Rides
Float above the aquarium in a glass-bottom boat and watch marine life from a unique perspective. - Shark Dives & Cage Snorkeling
For the adventurous, you can dive with sharks or try cage snorkeling for a close encounter without scuba certification. - VRZoo Experience
A 360-degree virtual reality experience where you can “swim” with whale sharks or go on wildlife adventures.
📸 Instagram-Worthy Moments
The Dubai Aquarium is one of the most photographed attractions in the city. Popular photo spots include:
• The massive viewing panel at the mall’s ground floor.
• Inside the aquarium tunnel with sharks overhead.
• The penguin habitat in the Underwater Zoo.
• Next to the King Croc enclosure.
🕒 Opening Hours
• Sunday–Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
• Thursday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – Midnight
Last entry is typically 1 hour before closing.
📍 Location & How to Get There
• Address: Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, UAE.
• By Metro: Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station and walk through the air-conditioned bridge.
• By Taxi/Car: Dubai Mall has massive parking areas with valet services available.
🍴 Dining Options Nearby
Being inside Dubai Mall, you have endless dining choices:
• Family-friendly restaurants like Cheesecake Factory and Rainforest Café.
• Quick bites such as Shake Shack, Five Guys, and Starbucks.
• Fine dining with Burj Khalifa views at restaurants in Souk Al Bahar, just outside the mall.
🛍 Shopping & Souvenirs
Inside the attraction, you’ll find a gift shop selling:
• Marine-themed plush toys.
• Educational books.
• T-shirts and eco-friendly accessories.
• Souvenirs with sharks, penguins, and jellyfish designs.
🎯 Best Time to Visit
• Morning visits are quieter than evenings.
• Weekdays are less crowded than weekends.
• Visiting during Dubai Shopping Festival or DSF 2025 means extra entertainment in the mall.
🏷 Tips for Visiting
- Book Online in Advance – Avoid queues and get better prices.
- Bundle with Other Attractions – Combine with Burj Khalifa At The Top tickets for savings.
- Wear Comfortable Shoes – Dubai Mall is huge; you’ll walk a lot.
- Check Feeding Times – Penguin, shark, and otter feeding times are worth catching.
- Bring a Camera – But avoid flash photography near animals.
🐬 Why Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is Perfect for All Ages
This attraction is designed to engage both kids and adults:
• Families love the educational exhibits and interactive areas.
• Couples enjoy a romantic stroll through the tunnel.
• Solo travelers can easily explore at their own pace.
• Adventure seekers get their adrenaline rush from diving experiences.
🌍 Sustainability & Conservation Efforts
Dubai Aquarium participates in several conservation initiatives, including:
• Breeding programs for endangered species.
• Partnerships with global marine conservation organizations.
🌊 Dive into Magic at the Dubai Mall Underwater Zoo!
Discover glowing jellyfish, graceful sea turtles, and the wonders of the ocean — all in the heart of Downtown Dubai. Beat the summer heat with this cool indoor escape, surrounded by world-class shopping and dining.
✨ Skip the lines and explore hassle-free with Golden Adventure Tourism — your key to a seamless, unforgettable Dubai experience.
📲 Book now and make your adventure unforgettable,.
