Inside Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo — Downtown Dubai's Giant Marine Experience
Stand beneath a wall of living water in The Dubai Mall and watch sharks cruise overhead through a 270-degree tunnel. The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo packs big marine encounters, accessible design, and keeper talks into a three-hour city attraction.
The Experience
Before You Go
Visit early or late
Arrive right at opening or after 7pm to avoid peak crowds and get clearer tunnel views.
Avoid flash photography
Flash can stress animals and ruins glass reflections—use a steady hand or tripod and raise ISO instead.
Check feeding times
Keeper talks and feedings are scheduled and worth planning around for close-up action and education.
Hydrate between indoors and outdoors
Dubai’s heat hits when you step outside; keep a reusable bottle and rehydrate after the cool galleries.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Stand in the center of the acrylic tunnel for uninterrupted overhead passes during quieter hours
- •Cross the bridge to Souk Al Bahar at dusk for framed photos of the tank with Burj Khalifa in the background
Wildlife
- •Sharks (various species)
- •Cownose and other rays
Conservation Note
The aquarium emphasizes education and species care; visitors are encouraged to follow rules that reduce stress on animals and support the facility’s conservation messaging.
Designed by Peddle Thorp and opened as part of The Dubai Mall project, the attraction was built to offer a large-scale marine exhibit in the heart of Downtown Dubai.
Photographer's Notes
- • Center of the acrylic tunnel for overhead action
- • Upper-level viewing gallery for full-tank panoramas
- • Souk Al Bahar bridge for skyline-plus-tank compositions
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
You’ll be on your feet moving between galleries and the tunnel floor.
Phone or camera with good low-light performanceEssential
Interior lighting is dim—higher ISO or low-light modes capture better photos through glass.
Reusable water bottle
Hydration is important in Dubai’s heat when moving between indoor exhibits and the outdoors.
Light layer or sweater
The galleries are air-conditioned and can feel chilly compared with outdoor temperatures.
Common Questions
How long should I plan for a visit?
Allocate about three hours to see the main aquarium tank, walkthrough tunnel, and the Underwater Zoo exhibits without rushing.
Are tickets mobile or paper?
Mobile tickets are accepted; bring the confirmation on your phone for instant entry.
Is the aquarium wheelchair and stroller accessible?
Yes—the facility is wheelchair and stroller accessible with elevators and ramps throughout the public galleries.
Can I book a behind-the-scenes tour?
Behind-the-scenes access is sometimes available through the venue—check the aquarium’s site or ask staff for current experiences and bookings.
Is the aquarium suitable for young children?
Yes—exhibits are family-friendly with clear viewing panels, but always supervise small children near glass and water features.
Can I photograph or use flash?
Photography is allowed, but flash is discouraged to avoid stressing the animals and creating reflections in the glass.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Dubai, Dubai
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly walking and standing on flat, accessible surfaces
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