About Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, Dubai Mall
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is a world-class oceanarium located inside The Dubai Mall. Opened on 4 November 2008 , it became one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world. Its giant central tank spans about 51m×20m×11m (10 million litres) and is home to tens of thousands of creatures (over 140 species, including 300+ sharks and rays) . The viewing panel is a Guinness-record acrylic “window” 32.88 m wide and 8.3 m high , designed to hold back all that water while giving visitors panoramic underwater views. The venue is operated by Emaar (Emaar Entertainment) and was envisioned as “a gift to Dubai” celebrating the region’s connection to the sea . As a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums, it meets international animal welfare standards (CITES, WAZA) in its design and operations.
Events and Programming
Although not a performance theatre, the aquarium runs a rich program of animal experiences and activities. Daily “feeding presentations” draw crowds – for example, trained staff feed sharks at 2:00 PM, otters at 1:30 PM, and even sloths at 4:00 PM . Guests can sometimes see rays leaping out to grab food or divers hand-feeding fish in the 10M-litre tank . Beyond the usual displays, visitors can purchase special encounters and adventures. These include behind-the-scenes tours, penguin and reptile meet-and-greets, and hands-on animal feeding experiences. Thrill-seekers can sign up for scuba-diving programs: a PADI “Discover Scuba Diver” session (no prior certification needed) lets you breathe underwater among the fish , and certified divers have multi-dive “Specialty” packages. Alternatively, guests as young as 8 can try cage snorkelling – a secure underwater cage — alongside rays and sharks . The complex even offers a glass-bottom boat tour through the main tank . For families, there are special events like birthday party packages (themed games and tours) and occasional promotions – for example, a recent “sleepover with the fishes” contest turned the acrylic tunnel into a luxury bedroom for two fathers and sons . Educational school tours and conservation talks are also arranged, especially during holidays.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets are required and can be booked online via the aquarium’s or Emaar’s sites, or purchased at the aquarium’s box office in the mall. General admission tickets are tiered: a basic “Silver” ticket (tunnel + zoo entry) starts at around AED 209 . Upgraded packages add extras – for example, a “Gold” ticket (around AED 269) adds fish-feeding opportunities and discounts on encounters, and a “Platinum” pass (around AED 399) includes nearly all activities plus souvenirs and meal vouchers . Special combo deals (e.g. 4-for-3 or annual passes) and discounts for UAE residents or children may be available. Infants under 2 years enter free , and children (approximately 2–11 years) have reduced fares (often listed on the ticketing page). Major holidays and weekends can get busy, so it’s wise to buy tickets ahead and reserve any special experiences in advance (many encounters and dives require booking a specific time).
Seating and Layout
This is a free-roam exhibit, not a seated venue. There are no fixed seats; instead, visitors stroll along a 48-metre underwater tunnel at about 11 m below the surface, giving a 270° view of marine life. The tunnel (an acrylic walk-through) is the highlight for most – sharks and rays swim overhead as you walk through. Around the tunnel and aquarium are viewing platforms plus the “Underwater Zoo” galleries above. The Underwater Zoo (an upper level) is divided into zones (Rainforest, Rocky Shore, Living Ocean) with animals like otters, sloths, penguins, crocodiles, jellyfish and more . The layout is intuitive: you enter at the mall level, descend (or ride escalators) into the main tank level to access the tunnel, then ascend to the zoo exhibits. Glass viewing panels outside the ticketed area allow a free peek at one side of the tank, but the tunnel and most exhibits require a ticket. For best photo angles, the underwater tunnel is unbeatable; some visitors also snap shots from outside or near the aquarium tank wall (accessible without a ticket if only seeing through the mall corridor). The facility is brightly lit and acoustically quiet (mostly the sound of water and muted voices), so sightlines are generally good from anywhere in the tunnel or adjacent platforms.
Getting There and Parking
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is located inside The Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai (exact address: 1 Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard ). By car, exit Sheikh Zayed Road at the Financial Center Road interchange to Dubai Mall. Parking is extensive: follow signs for Dubai Mall (you may be directed to Fashion or Media Office parking, then walk to the mall). The nearest parking level to the aquarium is Basement 2 (P2). Parking is paid after the first few hours – typically the first 3 hours are free, then about AED 10 per hour (capped at ~AED 80/day) . Valet parking is also available at the Mall. For public transit, the Dubai Metro (Red Line) has a “Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall” station; from there it’s a short (air-conditioned) walk or shuttle bus to the mall entrance. Multiple city buses stop at Dubai Mall, including routes 27, 29, 87, 88 and X23 which connect from major bus terminals . Taxis and ride-shares can drop you off at the Dubai Mall main entrance; from inside the mall, follow signs to the Aquarium. Pedestrians can also walk from nearby attractions like the Burj Khalifa (about 1 km away) or use the floating footbridges. Uber/Careem and Dubai Taxi are easy to reach the mall – once inside, signage or interactive mall maps will guide you to the aquarium entrance on the lower level.
Inside the Venue
On arrival you’ll go through a simple ticket check; large bags are discouraged. The interior is air-conditioned and dimly lit (for the animals), with the ethereal blue-green glow of the tanks. You’ll start at the central aquarium and tunnel, where watching fish is the main focus. A variety of marine-themed murals and information panels explain the ecosystems. Restrooms are available near the exhibit entries (on each level of the Underwater Zoo). There is a themed cafe inside called “Poseidon Café” – a relaxing space with large aquarium walls where you can grab snacks, coffee or lunch . A gift shop nearby sells souvenirs (toys, T-shirts, stuffed animals, and marine-themed postcards) if you want mementos. Storage lockers and coat-check are generally not offered (Dubai’s climate usually means light clothing), so it’s best to travel light. Most areas have benches along the zoo pathways (especially near penguins and interactive touch pools). Free mall Wi-Fi often reaches into the venue, and cell signal is normally available. Emergency exits and first-aid points follow Dubai Mall procedures (ask staff if unsure). Smoking is strictly forbidden inside. Most visitors spend time peering through every exhibit; lines can form at popular spots during show times. Overall, the atmosphere is family-friendly and educational, with children’s voices, soft background music and animal sounds audible near enclosures.
Nearby Amenities
Dubai Mall is one of the world’s largest shopping and entertainment complexes, so you’re surrounded by amenities. For pre- or post-visit meals, you have hundreds of restaurants and cafes under one roof – from fast food to upscale dining. There are casual food courts and sit-down options serving international, Middle Eastern and Asian cuisine. If you want a drink, there are several bars and lounges in the Mall and nearby Souk Al Bahar (across the fountain) – just walk a short distance via the Waterfront Promenade. If you’re staying overnight or making a longer trip, several top hotels flank the area: The Address Downtown, Armani Hotel (in Burj Khalifa), Burj Al Arab, Raffles, and others are within a few blocks. The famous Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa are next door, so many visitors combine attractions. Aim to arrive an hour or two before your visit for a leisurely lunch or to watch one of the fountain shows (they run in the afternoon and evening). For late-night transport, taxis and ride-shares operate 24/7 in Downtown Dubai. The Mall’s entrance and exits have taxi drop zones that remain open after attractions close.
What Makes This Venue Special
Aside from sheer size, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is a marvel of theme-park engineering and education. It set multiple world records (largest indoor shopping mall aquarium by volume and the largest acrylic panel on display) . Architecturally, housing a 10-million-litre ocean environment in a landlocked desert mall required cutting-edge design – special curved acrylic tunnels, advanced life support systems, and “lunar-cyclic” lighting that simulates day-night cycles in the tank . Culturally, it has become one of Dubai’s signature attractions: it attracts millions of visitors each year, contributing to tourism and family recreation in the city center. Many see it as putting Dubai on the map for marine conservation awareness in the region. The aquarium’s collection is unique in the Middle East – it hosts one of the world’s largest schools of Sand Tiger and reef sharks and the only captive sloths and numerous exotic creatures under one roof. VIPs and celebrities occasionally visit (it’s common in Dubai for new film shoots or events to feature the aquarium). For all these reasons – size, design, and the close encounters it enables – both locals and foreign tourists rave about the experience. It’s often cited as a “must-visit” Dubai highlight and a fun learning adventure for kids, and many repeat visitors return just for the sense of wonder the facility provides.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: The aquarium is fully wheelchair and stroller accessible. Elevators and wide ramps connect all levels, and families with small children or wheelchairs can easily navigate the exhibit areas . Photography: You are welcome to take photos or video for personal use, but be mindful not to use flash near the tanks (flash photography is restricted to avoid disturbing the animals) . Attire: Dress comfortably. The interior is air-conditioned, so a light jacket might help if you tend to feel cold. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for walking through the tunnel. What to Bring: Pack a camera or smartphone with enough battery (there are usually plugs in the cafe area if needed). Small backpacks are fine, but check with staff if unsure. Outside food and drink are not allowed beyond bottled water. Best Times to Visit: To avoid crowds, try visiting early in the morning on weekdays; weekends, school holidays, and late afternoons can be busier. Weekday entrances can be quieter than weekend evenings. Plan at least 1.5–2 hours for a full experience . If you want to see animal feedings, check the schedule on arrival (shark feed is daily at 2pm, otters 1:30pm, sloths 4pm ) and position yourself in the tunnel ahead of time. Tickets: Buying tickets online in advance is recommended for any busy day to skip the line. If visiting multiple attractions (e.g. Burj Khalifa next door), look for joint tickets or promotions. Etiquette: Please do not tap on glass or tease the animals. Keep children close on the walkways. Observing quietly and staying behind marked lines makes the experience better for everyone. Finally, remember nearby the famous Burj Khalifa and Fountain shows – many visitors combine the aquarium with evening fountain-viewing (the fountains are free and have shows every 30–60 minutes in the evenings). Allow extra time for photo ops in these nearby sights when planning your evening.
What are the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo opening hours?
The Aquarium is open daily from 10:00 AM. On weekdays (Sun–Thu) it closes at 11:00 PM (last entry around 10:15 PM) and on weekends (Fri–Sat) it stays open until midnight (last entry ~11:15 PM) . Always check for any holiday schedule changes before you go.
Where exactly is the aquarium located?
The aquarium is inside The Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai. Its official address is 1 Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Dubai Mall . Look for signage or ask at a mall directory to find the Ground/Lower Ground area where the aquarium entrance is located.
How do I get to the aquarium using public transportation?
By metro, take the Dubai Metro Red Line to the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station. From there you can either walk through the air-conditioned Underground Link Bridge into the mall or catch a free mall shuttle towards the West Entrance. City buses (such as routes 27, 29, 87, 88, X23) also stop near Dubai Mall from major stations . For taxis or Ubers, request drop-off at Dubai Mall, then follow signs to the aquarium.
Is parking available at Dubai Mall, and what are the costs?
Yes – Dubai Mall has a huge parking garage. The first few hours are free (often the first 3 or 4 hours on weekdays), after which a nominal fee applies (~AED 10 per hour, with a daily cap around AED 80) . Enter the mall parking garage and follow signs to Parking P2 for closest access to the aquarium. Valet parking is also offered at select mall entrances.
How much do tickets cost, and where can I buy them?
Ticket prices vary by package. A basic adult ticket (“Silver”) is about AED 209 . More inclusive packages (Gold, Platinum) cost roughly AED 269 and AED 399, respectively , and include extra activities or vouchers. Children 2–11 have discounted rates, and toddlers under 2 usually enter free . Tickets can be purchased online (official aquarium or Dubai attractions sites) or at the aquarium’s ticket office inside the mall. Weekend and holiday tickets often sell out, so it’s a good idea to reserve online in advance.
Are children allowed and do they get discounts?
Yes, children of all ages are welcome. Kids aged 2–11 pay a reduced ticket price (exact age brackets are at the ticket counter), and infants under 2 enter for free . Family-friendly facilities (wide aisles, elevators, baby changing) make it easy. Note that some special experiences (like animal encounters or diving programs) have minimum age or height requirements for safety. Always check those requirements when booking those extras.
Does the aquarium host feeding shows or special animal presentations?
Yes. The aquarium schedules daily feeding presentations. For example, trained staff feed sharks at about 2:00 PM, otters around 1:30 PM, and even sloths at 4:00 PM . You can watch rays being hand-fed at other times as well. These shows are included with admission – just arrive at the main tank tunnel at the listed times. The schedule may vary on holidays, so check the posted times upon entry or ask staff.
Can I swim, snorkel or dive in the aquarium’s tank?
Yes – but only through organized programs. The aquarium partners with professional dive instructors to offer programs like “Discover Scuba” (where you can try scuba diving without already being certified) . They also offer cage-snorkeling sessions for non-divers (minimum age 8) where you enter a metal cage in the tank among sharks and rays . These are controlled experiences that must be booked and paid for separately from normal admission. Casual swimming (e.g. free diving or snorkeling outside these programs) is not allowed.
Is the Underwater Zoo included in the ticket, and what animals can I see there?
Yes. A standard ticket covers both the aquarium and the Underwater Zoo sections. The Underwater Zoo (on the upper level) is arranged into habitat zones – Rainforest, Rocky Shore, Living Ocean, etc. . Here you can see Asian small-clawed otters, a Southern two-toed sloth, piranhas and reptiles in the “Rainforest” zone; Gentoo penguins in a climate-controlled “Penguin Cove” (Rocky Shore); and King Croc (a large saltwater crocodile), jellyfish and other deep-sea creatures in the “Living Ocean” section. It’s a mix of tropical and cold-water species organized in walk-through exhibits.
Are outside food and drinks allowed inside the aquarium?
No. Dubai Mall policies (like most attractions) do not permit bringing outside meals into the aquarium area. You should finish any large snacks or meals before entry. Small sealed water bottles are generally fine, but check with staff. Inside the venue, you can eat and drink at the in-house café (Poseidon Café) or at nearby eateries in the mall once you leave for a break.
Is the aquarium wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Absolutely. The facility is fully accessible. Wide ramps and elevators connect the levels, and pathways are spacious . Wheelchairs and strollers are welcome, making it easy for families and visitors with mobility needs to cover the aquarium tunnel and zoo exhibits. If in doubt, guest services can assist with any special arrangements.
Are pets allowed inside the aquarium?
No. Only service animals (properly trained and identified) are permitted inside according to Dubai Mall rules. Apart from service dogs, pets and animals of any other kind are not allowed in the aquarium or mall premises.
Is photography or videography allowed inside?
Yes. Visitors are free to take photos and videos with personal cameras or phones. Flash photography is restricted (and usually blocked by the glass) to protect the animals’ eyes. Be mindful of other guests when composing shots, but otherwise feel free to capture your visit. (Selfie sticks are typically allowed, but check signage in case any are temporarily prohibited during feeding shows for safety.)
What is the best time to visit to avoid crowds?
Weekday mornings are generally quietest. Try to arrive right at opening time, especially on Sunday–Thursday, to see popular exhibits before tour groups and school visits peak. Late evenings (an hour before closing) on weekdays can also be calm. Weekends, public holidays, and Dubai school vacations tend to be busier. Plan around feeding schedules (e.g. avoid 1–2pm if you want to dodge midday crowds) to optimize your experience.
How long should I plan to spend inside the aquarium?
Most visitors spend roughly 1.5 to 2.5 hours exploring both levels at a leisurely pace . If you’re doing extra activities (animal encounters, scuba dive, boat tour) or traveling with young children, you might take longer. If you’re just zipping through for photos, it could be done in about an hour. Plan sufficient time to enjoy the tunnel view and the zoo zone without rushing, and factor in any waiting at showtimes.
Are there lockers or coat checks available?
No, the aquarium does not provide luggage lockers or coat check (since Dubai is warm year-round, most visitors dress lightly). You should carry smaller bags on you. The museum staff recommends traveling light – only essential items – to move easily through the exhibits. For larger shopping bags or strollers, you can use the mall’s general cloakroom or luggage services if needed.
Is there a cafe or restaurant inside the aquarium?
Yes. Inside the aquarium complex is the Poseidon Café – an ocean-themed cafe with a huge aquarium window for ambiance . It offers sandwiches, salads, ice cream, coffee and light meals. Prices are moderately higher than a food court, but it’s very convenient. Otherwise, dozens of other restaurants (casual and fine dining) are scattered throughout The Dubai Mall a short walk away for fuller meals.
Can I see any part of the aquarium for free?
Yes. The Dubai Mall corridor outside the aquarium has a large viewing window into the main tank, and you can watch the fish there at no charge. However, this free view is limited to that one panel from outside; access to the underwater tunnel, zoo, and most exhibit areas requires a paid ticket.
