Are you looking for a thrilling and unforgettable experience in Dubai? Do you want to explore the wonders of the underwater world and get up close and personal with some of the most amazing creatures on the planet? If yes, then you must visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, one of the most popular and spectacular attractions in the city.
Located in the heart of the Dubai Mall, the largest shopping mall in the world, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is a must-see for anyone who loves marine life and adventure. It is home to over 140,000 aquatic animals, including sharks, rays, crocodiles, penguins, otters, and more. You can witness the beauty and diversity of the marine life in the world’s largest suspended aquarium tank, walk through the 270-degree acrylic tunnel, and explore the three zones of the Underwater Zoo, each with its own unique theme and inhabitants.
But that’s not all. The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo also offers a range of exciting and immersive activities and experiences that will make your visit even more memorable and fun. You can dive with the sharks, snorkel in a cage, feed the rays, ride a glass-bottom boat, go behind the scenes, and more. You can also enjoy the VRZOO, a virtual reality experience that lets you interact with endangered animals in their natural habitats.
Whether you are a family, a solo traveller, a couple, or a group of friends, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo has something for everyone. It is a perfect destination for a day of learning, entertainment, and adventure. In this article, we will give you a complete guide to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, including its features, activities, prices, timings, location, and tips. Read on to find out everything you need to know before you visit this amazing attraction.
Why Visit Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is not just an ordinary aquarium. It is a world-class attraction that showcases the marvels of the marine world and offers a variety of experiences that will make you feel like you are part of it. Here are some of the reasons why you should visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo:
1. It is one of the largest and most diverse aquariums in the world, with over 140,000 aquatic animals, representing over 300 species, including rare and endangered ones.
2. It holds the Guinness World Record for the largest acrylic panel, measuring 32.88 metres wide, 8.3 metres high, and 750 mm thick, which gives you a stunning view of the aquarium tank and its inhabitants.
3. It offers a unique opportunity to walk through the aquarium tunnel, which is 48 metres long and 11 metres high, and surrounded by 10 million litres of water. You can see the marine life from all angles and feel like you are underwater yourself.
4. It has a three-level Underwater Zoo that showcases the different ecosystems and habitats of the aquatic animals, such as the UAE’s Night Creatures, the Rainforest, and the Living Ocean. You can see and learn about the animals that live in these environments, such as the Arabian carpet shark, the giant spider crab, the piranha, the otter, the penguin, and more.
5. It has a King Croc exhibit that features one of the largest crocodiles in the world, named King Croc. He is over 5 metres long, weighs over 750 kg, and has a bite force equivalent to 14,000 newtons. You can see him and his female companion, Queen Croc, in their enclosure, and learn more about their biology and behaviour.
6. It has a VRZOO that allows you to experience the wildlife in a virtual reality setting. You can travel to different habitats, such as the African savannah, the Arctic, and the Amazon, and meet the animals that live there, such as the elephant, the polar bear, and the jaguar. You can also interact with them and learn more about their conservation status and threats.
7. It offers a range of activities and experiences that let you get closer to the marine life and have a more immersive and adventurous visit. You can choose from diving, snorkeling, feeding, boating, touring, and more, depending on your preference and skill level. You can also customize your package and combine different activities for a more personalized experience.
8. It is a great place to learn about the marine life and the environment. You can discover the facts and stories behind the animals and their habitats, and learn about the importance of protecting and preserving them. You can also participate in some of the educational and conservation initiatives that the aquarium and zoo offer, such as animal adoption, research, and volunteering.
What to Expect at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is a place where you can see, learn, and do a lot of things. Here are some of the main attractions and experiences that you can expect at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo:
Aquarium Tank
The aquarium tank is the heart and soul of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. It is the world’s largest suspended aquarium tank, measuring 51 metres long, 20 metres wide, and 11 metres high. It holds 10 million litres of water and houses over 140,000 aquatic animals, including over 300 sharks and rays.
The aquarium tank is a sight to behold, with its massive size and variety of marine life. You can see the animals from different perspectives, such as from the ground floor of the Dubai Mall, from the aquarium tunnel, or from the glass-bottom boat. You can also see the animals in action, such as during the feeding sessions, which take place daily at 11 am and 3 pm.
The aquarium tank is also a place where you can have a more hands-on and thrilling experience, such as diving and snorkeling. You can choose from different diving options, such as the Shark Dive, the Cage Dive, the Ray Dive, and the Specialty Dive, depending on your skill level and interest. You can also opt for the Cage Snorkeling, which allows you to snorkel in a cage and see the marine life from a safe distance.
Aquarium Tunnel
The aquarium tunnel is one of the most unique and exciting features of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. It is a 270-degree acrylic tunnel that runs through the aquarium tank, giving you a panoramic view of the marine life. You can walk through the tunnel and see the animals from all angles, such as above, below, and beside you. You can also feel the water pressure and temperature, and hear the sounds of the animals and the water.
The aquarium tunnel is a great way to experience the underwater world and feel like you are part of it. You can see the animals in their natural behaviour and interaction, such as swimming, hunting, and playing. You can also see some of the rare and exotic animals, such as the sand tiger shark, the zebra shark, the bowmouth guitarfish, and the giant grouper.
The aquarium tunnel is also a great place to learn more about the marine life and the aquarium. You can find information panels and screens along the tunnel that provide facts and stories about the animals and their habitats. You can also find staff members and guides who can answer your questions and share their knowledge and insights.
Underwater Zoo
The Underwater Zoo is the second level of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, where you can explore the different ecosystems and habitats of the aquatic animals. It is divided into three zones, each with its own theme and inhabitants. The three zones are:
UAE’s Night Creatures: This zone showcases the animals that are native to the UAE and that are active at night, such as the Arabian carpet shark, the Arabian toadfish, the Arabian lungfish, the fruit bat, the barn owl, and the desert hedgehog. You can see how these animals adapt to the dark and harsh conditions of the desert and the sea.
Rainforest: This zone showcases the animals that live in the tropical rainforests, such as the piranha, the electric eel, the archerfish, the otter, the caiman, and the giant spider crab. You can see how these animals survive and thrive in the diverse and dense environment of the rainforest.
Living Ocean: This zone showcases the animals that live in the open ocean, such as the clownfish, the seahorse, the jellyfish, the penguin, the sea turtle, and the sea dragon. You can see how these animals adapt to the vast and dynamic environment of the ocean.
The Underwater Zoo is a place where you can see and learn about the animals that live in different environments and how they are connected to each other and to us. You can also interact with some of the animals, such as feeding the otters and the rays, and touching the starfish and the sea cucumber.
King Croc
The King Croc is one of the most impressive and intimidating exhibits of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. It features one of the largest crocodiles in the world, named King Croc. He is over 5 metres long, weighs over 750 kg, and has a bite force equivalent to 14,000 newtons. He is estimated to be over 40 years old, and can live up to 100 years.
You can see King Croc and his female companion, Queen Croc, in their enclosure, which replicates their natural habitat in Australia. You can see them resting, swimming, and feeding, and learn more about their biology and behaviour.
VRZOO
The VRZOO is one of the most innovative and immersive experiences of the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. It is a virtual reality experience that lets you travel to different habitats and meet the animals that live there. You can choose from six different scenarios, such as the African savannah, the Arctic, the Amazon, the coral reef, the mangrove forest, and the desert.
You can wear a VR headset and a backpack, and use a controller to interact with the animals and the environment. You can see, hear, and feel the animals and their surroundings, such as the elephant, the polar bear, the jaguar, the dolphin, the flamingo, and the camel. You can also learn more about their conservation status and threats, and how you can help them.
The VRZOO is a great way to experience the wildlife in a realistic and engaging way. You can have fun and learn at the same time, and discover the beauty and diversity of the natural world. The VRZOO is suitable for all ages and skill levels, and lasts for about 15 minutes.
How to Book Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Tickets
If you are interested in visiting the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, you will need to book your tickets in advance. You can book your tickets online through their official website, which is the easiest and most convenient way to secure your spot and enjoy the best deals and discounts.
You can choose from different ticket options, depending on your preference and budget. The ticket options are:
Basic: This ticket gives you access to the aquarium tank, the aquarium tunnel, and the Underwater Zoo. It costs AED 120 per person, and is valid for one day.
Explorer: This ticket gives you access to the aquarium tank, the aquarium tunnel, the Underwater Zoo, the glass-bottom boat ride, and the submersible simulator. It also includes a behind the scenes tour and a souvenir photo. It costs AED 175 per person, and is valid for one day.
VIP: This ticket gives you access to the aquarium tank, the aquarium tunnel, the Underwater Zoo, the glass-bottom boat ride, the submersible simulator, and the VRZOO. It also includes a behind the scenes tour, a souvenir photo, and a priority entry. It costs AED 210 per person, and is valid for one day.
You can also add some of the activities and experiences to your ticket, such as the diving, snorkeling, feeding, etc. The prices and availability of these activities vary depending on the type and the date.
How to Reach Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is located in the Dubai Mall, which is one of the most accessible and convenient locations in the city. You can reach the attraction by different modes of transport, such as metro, bus, taxi, or car. Here are some of the directions and tips on how to get to the attraction:
Metro:
The nearest metro station to the attraction is the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station, which is on the Red Line. You can take the metro from any station in the city, and get off at the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station. From there, you can take the feeder bus or walk for about 15 minutes to reach the Dubai Mall. The metro operates from 5 am to 12 am on weekdays, and from 10 am to 1 am on weekends.
Bus:
The nearest bus stop to the attraction is the Dubai Mall bus stop, which is served by several bus routes, such as 27, 29, 50, 81, 88, and F13. You can take the bus from any bus station in the city, and get off at the Dubai Mall bus stop. From there, you can walk for about 5 minutes to reach the Dubai Mall. The bus operates from 6 am to 11 pm on weekdays, and from 6 am to 12 am on weekends.
Taxi:
The easiest and fastest way to reach the attraction is by taxi, which is available throughout the city. You can hail a taxi from the street, or book one online or by phone. You can tell the driver to take you to the Dubai Mall, which is well-known and easy to find. The taxi fare depends on the distance and the traffic, but it usually ranges from AED 20 to AED 50. The taxi operates 24/7.
Car:
If you have your own car or a rental car, you can drive to the attraction and park your car at the Dubai Mall parking lot, which has over 14,000 spaces. You can enter the parking lot from Sheikh Zayed Road, Financial Centre Road, or Al Khail Road. You can follow the signs and directions to reach the Dubai Mall. The parking is free for the first four hours, and then AED 10 per hour. The parking operates 24/7.
Tips and Tricks for Visiting Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
To make the most of your visit to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, here are some tips and tricks that you should keep in mind:
The best time to visit the attraction is in the morning or in the evening, when it is less crowded and more pleasant. You can also avoid the peak hours, which are from 4 pm to 8 pm, especially on weekends and holidays.
The dress code for the attraction is casual and comfortable, but you should also respect the local culture and customs, and avoid wearing anything too revealing or offensive. You should also wear appropriate clothing and footwear for the activities and experiences that you choose, such as diving, snorkeling, etc.
The photography rules for the attraction are that you can take photos and videos for personal use only, and not for commercial or promotional purposes. You should also respect the privacy and safety of the other visitors and the animals, and not use flash, tripods, or drones. You should also follow the instructions and guidelines of the staff and the guides, and not touch or feed the animals without permission.
The food options for the attraction are that you can find a variety of restaurants and cafes in the Dubai Mall, which cater to different tastes and budgets. You can also bring your own food and drinks, but you should not consume them inside the attraction, and dispose of them properly. You should also avoid bringing any alcoholic beverages, as they are prohibited in the attraction and in the mall.
The nearby attractions for the attraction are that you can find many other things to see and do in the Dubai Mall, such as the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, the Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest choreographed fountain, the Dubai Ice Rink, the Olympic-sized ice skating rink, and the KidZania, the interactive edutainment centre for children. You can also find many shops, cinemas, and entertainment venues in the mall, which will keep you busy and entertained for hours.
The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is one of the most amazing and exciting attractions in Dubai, and a must-visit for anyone who loves marine life and adventure. It is a place where you can see, learn, and do a lot of things, and have a memorable and fun-filled day. You can book your tickets online through our platform, and enjoy the best deals and discounts, and a hassle-free and smooth entry to the attraction. You can also reach the attraction easily and conveniently by different modes of transport, and find many other attractions and amenities nearby. You can also follow our tips and tricks to make the most of your visit, and have a great time at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the ultimate marine adventure in Dubai. Book your tickets now and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
