Planning a visit to Dubai Aquarium can feel confusing at first. There are different ticket types, animal encounters, diving experiences, and combo options.
Many visitors wonder if it is worth the price, how long it takes, and whether it is suitable for children. Based on official information, ticket details, and safety rules, this guide explains exactly what you get, what is included, and how to choose the right option.
I have carefully reviewed the pricing structure, age requirements, and experience breakdown to help you avoid common mistakes.
Quick Takeaways
- Features a 10 million litre tank
- Home to 33,000+ marine animals including 300+ sharks and rays
- Includes a 48 metre Aquarium Tunnel with 270 degree views
- Average visit time: 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- Basic tcket start from around AED 209
- Free viewing available from outside glass panel
- Animal encounters and diving experiences cost extra
- Fully indoor and air conditioned
Main Attractions Inside Dubai Aquarium
The Massive Aquarium Tank
The main tank holds 10 million litres of water and recreates a natural ocean habitat. It includes sand tiger sharks, giant groupers, stingrays, and many other marine species.
The size of the tank allows larger predators to swim freely, which makes the viewing experience realistic and impressive.
It is home to more than 33,000 marine animals, including over 300 sharks and rays. The size and scale of the tank make it one of the most photographed attractions inside The Dubai Mall, especially for first time visitors to Dubai.
From the outside, visitors can see the tank for free through the glass panel facing the mall. However, free viewing is limited to the front glass panel only, and access to the Aquarium Tunnel and Underwater Zoo requires a paid
ticket. Inside, the experience becomes more immersive as you walk closer to the marine life.
Aquarium Tunnel
The Aquarium Tunnel is 48 metres long and offers a 270 degree curved view around you. As you walk through, sharks and rays swim above and beside you. The lighting is designed to create a deep sea atmosphere while still allowing clear photos.
The tunnel runs through the main 10 million litre tank. At certain points, it feels like you are standing about 11 metres below the water surface. Access to the tunnel is included in standard aquarium entry tickets.
The tunnel is often the highlight for most visitors because it gives the feeling of standing underwater without getting wet.
Because the tunnel is included in standard entry tickets, it is one of the most visited sections of the attraction, especially for families and tourists looking for the classic Dubai Aquarium experience.
Underwater Zoo Zones
The Underwater Zoo is divided into three main zones: Rainforest, Rocky Shore, and Living Ocean. The Underwater Zoo is located on Level 2 above the main aquarium tank.
The Rainforest zone features creatures such as piranhas, amphibians, and also includes animals such as Asian small clawed otters and a sloth.
The Rocky Shore zone includes penguins, coastal animals and is home to Gentoo penguins inside Penguin Cove.
The Living Ocean zone focuses on species found in deeper marine environments and features King Croc, one of the largest saltwater crocodiles in captivity, along with jellyfish and other large marine species.
Each zone explains the habitat and behavior of the animals, which makes it educational for children and adults.
The layout makes it easy for school groups and families to move between habitats while learning about different ecosystems in a structured way.
Animal Highlights
Some of the most popular animals include sand tiger sharks, giant rays, Gentoo penguins, and the famous King Croc. King Croc is one of the largest reptiles in captivity. He weighs around 750 kilograms and measures over 5 metres in length.
Other animals include otters, jellyfish, lionfish, and seahorses. The variety makes the visit more engaging as you move from one habitat to another.
The aquarium also hosts daily feeding sessions for selected species such as sharks, rays, and otters. Feeding times are displayed at the venue and may vary depending on the day.
Watching a feeding session gives visitors a better understanding of animal behavior and marine conservation. Feeding sessions are especially popular with children and school groups.
Animal Encounters at Dubai Aquarium
Animal encounters allow visitors to interact with selected species under supervision. These experiences are guided by trained staff and follow safety rules.
Penguin Encounter
The Penguin Encounter lets visitors meet Gentoo penguins in a controlled setting. You can learn about their feeding habits and habitat. The session usually includes close viewing and educational guidance.
Basic Penguin Cove access is included in most standard tickets. However, upgraded experiences allow closer interaction and educational sessions with trainers.
Availability depends on time slots, and advance booking is recommended during peak seasons.
- Penguin Encounter Price: AED 130 per person for adults and children aged 2 years and above
- Age Requirement: Children under 15 must be accompanied by an adult
Visitors get the opportunity to observe around 16 Gentoo penguins inside Penguin Cove, which is maintained in a carefully controlled environment that reflects their natural cold habitat.
King Croc Encounter
This encounter focuses on the massive saltwater crocodile known as King Croc. Visitors learn about crocodile behavior, lifespan, and conservation efforts.
You get the chance to see Jock, the male King Croc weighing around 750 kg and measuring over 5 metres long, along with Missy, known as the Queen Croc, in a guided session.
- King Croc Encounter Price: AED 130 per person for adults and children above 120 cm in height
- Height Requirement: Minimum 120 cm
- Other Requirements: Guests must be able to use stairs; not suitable for pregnant guests
This encounter allows visitors to observe one of the largest saltwater crocodiles in captivity from a close and safe viewing area.
It provides clear information about crocodile care, feeding habits, and how the aquarium maintains a controlled habitat for such a large reptile.
Otter Encounter
The Otter Encounter introduces Asian small clawed otters. These animals are known for their playful nature and social behavior, often solving puzzles and interacting with each other in playful ways.
In this experience, you get to meet the otters up close and learn about their habits and characteristics from trained staff.
- Otter Encounter Price: AED 130 per person for adults and children aged 2 years and above
- Age Rules: Children under 2 years enter free; children under 15 years must be accompanied by an adult (15+)
- Accessibility: This encounter is wheelchair and stroller accessible
This experience is designed to be interactive and informative, giving visitors a chance to see how these intelligent otters behave and interact in their environment.
Ray Encounter
The Ray Encounter allows visitors to observe rays up close and learn how they move and feed. During this experience, guests can hand-feed rays under the supervision of trained staff.
The session includes information about ray behavior, diet, and habitat inside the aquarium.
- Ray Encounter Price: AED 100 per person
- Height Requirement: Minimum height of 140 cm
- Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant guests
This experience is supervised and takes place in a controlled environment to ensure safety for both guests and animals.
Birds Encounter
This session includes exotic birds found in rainforest environments. It explains their diet and survival methods, with guides providing information about how these birds live and adapt to different habitats.
The experience usually includes close observation of birds and learning about their behavior and natural diet.
- Birds Encounter Price: AED 100 per person
- Age Rules: Children under 2 years generally enter free; children under 15 years must be accompanied by an adult (15+ years)
Birds in this encounter are usually from habitats similar to rainforest conditions, and the session aims to help visitors understand their feeding patterns and survival techniques.
Reptile Encounter
The Reptile Encounter focuses on snakes and other reptiles. Staff members explain how these animals adapt to their surroundings.
You get to see a range of cold-blooded animals, such as pythons, chameleons, and other reptiles, and learn about their behavior and survival traits.
- Reptile Encounter Price: AED 50 per person for adults and children aged 2 years and above
- Age Rules: Children under 15 years must be accompanied by an adult aged 15+
- Not Applicable: Children under 2 years are not permitted in this experience
- Accessibility: Not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers
- Safety Note: Mobile phones are not allowed inside the exhibit for safety reasons
This encounter gives visitors practical insight into how reptiles live, how they adapt to their environment, and how they interact with their surroundings.
Sloth Encounter
The Sloth Encounter offers a rare chance to meet a sloth up close and learn about its slow metabolism, diet, and rainforest habitat.
In this experience, guests observe how these animals move, sleep, and digest their food while trained staff explain their behavior.
- Sloth Encounter Price: AED 100 per person for adults and children aged 2 years and above
- Age Rules: Children under 2 years old are not permitted; children under 15 years must be accompanied by an adult aged 15 or above
- Safety Rule: Mobile phones may not be allowed inside the encounter area for safety
This encounter gives visitors direct insight into how sloths live and behave in a setting that reflects their natural environment without extra descriptive or promotional language.
Diving Experiences in Dubai Aquarium
Some diving and underwater experiences have minimum age requirements and require a signed medical declaration form.
Certified dives require a valid diving certification, while beginner experiences are supervised by trained instructors. Participants should check safety requirements before booking.
Shark Dives
Certified divers can join shark dives with professional instructors inside the main tank. The session takes place with sand tiger sharks, reef sharks, tawny nurse sharks, rays, groupers, and other marine species. A dive master and instructor guide all divers during the activity.
Shark dives are offered by the aquarium in partnership with diving professionals, and they require certification or a short refresher if you have not dived recently.
- Shark Dive Price: AED 790 per person for certified divers
- Certification Requirement: Must be a certified diver (PADI or equivalent)
- Age Requirement: Minimum age 10 years for participants
- Pre-Booking: Booking at least 48 hours in advance is recommended to secure your slot
- Arrival Time: Divers should arrive about 60 minutes before the scheduled dive for a safety briefing and preparation
- Safety Restrictions: Pregnant guests and those with mobility limitations may not be permitted; a signed medical form is required before diving
Shark dives give certified divers the chance to swim in the same water as some of the aquarium’s largest sharks and other marine life. The instructors handle all equipment and guide you through the experience safely.
Cage Snorkelling
Cage snorkelling is suitable for beginners who do not have a diving certification. In this experience, participants enter a secure cage placed inside the main tank and snorkel while sharks, rays, and other fish swim around.
Trained staff guide you and make sure the activity is safe throughout the session.
This activity takes place inside the aquarium’s 10 million litre tank, where you can see more than 300 sharks, rays, and other marine life up close without needing prior diving skills.
- Cage Snorkelling Price: AED 370 per person
- Minimum Age Requirement: 8 years and older
- Swimming Ability: Basic swimming skills are recommended, even though you are in a cage
- Arrival Time: Arrive at least 30 minutes before the session starts to check in and get fitted with gear
- Safety Restrictions: Not suitable for pregnant guests or those with serious medical conditions
This setup allows visitors who are new to underwater environments to experience the tank in a controlled and supervised setting.
Shark Walker Cage
The Shark Walker Cage allows non-swimmers to walk underwater inside the main aquarium tank while wearing a special oxygen helmet.
This experience does not require a diving certification and gives participants direct views of sharks, rays, and other marine life in their environment.
This activity takes place in the 10-million-litre tank that holds thousands of marine creatures, including one of the largest collections of sand tiger sharks and rays in the world.
- Shark Walker Cage Price: AED 620 per person
- Minimum Age Requirement: 12 years and above
- Age/Guardian Rule: Guests under 18 may need a parent or guardian to sign liability forms on site
- Arrival Time: Arrive at least 45 minutes before your scheduled session for a safety briefing and preparation
- Height/Body Requirements: Minimum height of around 150 cm and shoulder width requirements apply to fit the helmet securely
- Safety Restrictions: Pregnant guests and those with mobility impairments are typically not permitted; a medical form may be required before the experience
Shark Walker Cage sessions are usually scheduled in half-hour slots throughout the afternoon and evening, and trained staff are present to assist with equipment and ensure participants follow all safety procedures.
Specialty Dives
Specialty Dives is a multi-dive programme designed for PADI certified divers. It includes three structured dives that focus on underwater swimming, photography practice, and observing shark feeding from a safe viewpoint.
This experience is suited for divers who already have certification and want to explore the aquarium from different depths.
This programme is separate from regular aquarium entry and is offered with professional guidance throughout all dives.
- Specialty Dives Price: AED 2,100 for the full three-dive programme (often discounted to around AED 1,680)
- Certification Required: PADI Open Water or higher certification is needed to participate
- Minimum Age: Divers must be at least 10 years old to take part
- Arrival Time: Arrive at least 45 minutes before the first dive session for briefing and equipment setup
- Inclusions: Equipment provision and professional dive support are included in the programme
- Scheduling: The three dives can be done on the same day or scheduled over different days based on availability and diver preference
This programme lets certified divers improve their skills, practice underwater photography, and witness shark feeding behaviour up close in a guided environment.
Scuba Diving
Scuba programs at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo let both beginners and certified divers go underwater in the big tank.
Beginners can try a supervised introductory dive to learn basic breathing and diving skills. Certified divers can join deeper dives with a professional instructor.
The experience takes place in the aquarium’s 10-million-litre tank with marine life all around.
- Discover Scuba Diving Price: AED 1,210 per person for the introductory scuba experience
- Minimum Age Requirement: Must be at least 10 years old to take part
- Health and Safety: Participants should be in good health and not be pregnant
- Arrival Time: Arrive early before the session starts for briefing and gear setup
- Certification: Beginners without certification are guided throughout; certified divers use their existing dive credentials.
This scuba experience gives visitors a chance to breathe underwater and see marine life close up under the supervision of trained dive instructors, even if they are not yet certified divers..
Dubai Aquarium Tickets Price & Packages
Dubai Aquarium offers different ticket types based on what you want to see and do. Prices may change depending on the season or promotions, so always check the official website before you buy.
Here is a simple comparison to help you choose.
| Ticket Type | Adult Price | What’s Included | Best For |
| Silver Pass | AED 209 | Aquarium Tunnel, Underwater zoo, Penguin Cove, AED 20 voucher | First-time visitors |
| Gold Pass | AED 269 | Silver Benefits, Fish Feeding, 30% Discount on Animal Encounters | Visitors wanting more value |
| Platinum Pass | AED 399 | All Main Experiences, Mini Souvenir, Play DXB Voucher, & More | Premium visitors |
| UAE Resident Offer | AED 178 | Silver Pass With Resident Discount | UAE residents |
| 4 for 3 Pass | AED 627 | 4 Silver Pass Tickets For Price of 3 | Families and groups |
| Annual Pass (Adult) | AED 500 | Unlimited Entry For 1 year & 15-50% Discounts on Encounter, Experiences and More. | Frequent visitors |
| Annual Pass (Child) | AED 400 | Unlimited Entry For 1 year & 15-50% Discounts on Encounter, Experiences and More. | Families with kids |
Children aged 2 to 11 have separate pricing. Infants under 2 years usually enter for free. Diving and animal encounters cost extra and are not included in standard entry tickets.
If you just want to see the tunnel and zoo, the Silver Pass is enough. Families can save with the 4 for 3 Pass. Residents should check for discounts before booking.
Combo Ticket Options
If you plan to visit more than one attraction in Downtown Dubai, combo tickets can save money compared to buying separate tickets.
| Combo Ticket | Approx. Price (Adult) | Includes | Best For |
| Dubai Aquarium + At The Top | From AED 279–339 | Aquarium & Underwater Zoo + At The Top (Burj Khalifa Level 124 & 125) | Visitors wanting city views and marine life in one visit |
| Dubai Aquarium + Sky Views | AED 229 | Aquarium & Underwater Zoo + Sky Views Observatory | Visitors looking for views and adventure together |
Combo prices vary depending on time slot and season, so checking the website before purchasing is recommended.
Dubai Aquarium Timings
- Opening Time: 10:00 AM daily
- Closing Time (Sunday to Wednesday): 10:00 PM
- Closing Time (Thursday to Saturday): 11:00 PM
- Last Entry: Usually 1 hour before closing time
- Special Schedule Changes: Timings may change during Ramadan, public holidays, and special events
How To Get To Dubai Aquarium?
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is located on the Ground Floor of The Dubai Mall.
The nearest metro station is Burj Khalifa Dubai Mall Station on the Red Line. From there, a covered walkway connects directly to The Dubai Mall.
The walk from the metro station to the mall usually takes around 10 to 15 minutes through the air conditioned Metro Link Bridge.
If you are driving, you can park in the Dubai Mall parking areas. The closest parking zones are near the Grand Parking area, which provides easier access to the aquarium section. Parking is generally free for a limited time, depending on mall policies.
Taxis, Careem, and Uber can drop you directly at the main entrance of The Dubai Mall. Several RTA bus routes also stop at The Dubai Mall.
Accessibility & Visitor Facilities
Dubai Aquarium is wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly. Elevators connect different levels of the attraction.
Restrooms and baby changing facilities are available inside The Dubai Mall. Outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the attraction.
Tips Before You Visit Dubai Mall Aquarium
- Book tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in line
- Arrive early in the day to avoid peak crowds, especially on weekends and during tourist season
- Check the daily feeding schedule if you want to watch animal feeding sessions
- Confirm encounter timings at the entrance if you plan to join a specific experience
- Keep your camera ready, but avoid using flash photography to protect the animals
Things to Do Near Dubai Aquarium
After visiting, you can explore nearby attractions such as The Dubai Fountain or go up to the At The Top observation deck at Burj Khalifa. The Dubai Fountain shows run daily in the evening and is free to watch.
The Dubai Mall also offers an ice rink, cinemas, KidZania and hundreds of restaurants. The mall features more than 1,200 retail stores for shopping, and all major attractions are within walking distance inside Dubai Mall and the surrounding Downtown Dubai area.
Frequently Asked Question
Is Dubai Mall Aquarium Worth Visiting?
Yes, especially for families and tourists who want to see marine life in a safe indoor setting. The large tank and tunnel create a memorable experience.
Can You See Dubai Aquarium For free?
You can view the main tank from outside without buying a ticket. However, access to the tunnel and zoo requires paid entry.
How Long Do You Need in Dubai Aquarium?
Plan for at least 1.5 to 2 hours to explore both the Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
Is There a Dress Code?
There is no strict dress code, but modest clothing is generally recommended in public spaces in Dubai.
Do You Need Tickets in Advance?
Advance booking is recommended during weekends and peak tourist season to avoid waiting in line.
Are There Resident Discounts?
Yes, UAE residents can receive promotional offers when booking through official website.
Final Words
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo offers more than a simple walk through experience. With a 10 million litre tank, structured animal encounters, and certified diving programs, it is designed for families, tourists, residents, and adventure seekers.
The key is choosing the right ticket based on your time, budget, and interest level.
After reviewing the official details, pricing, and safety requirements, it is clear that planning ahead makes the visit smoother and more enjoyable.
When you understand what is included and book the right experience, Dubai Aquarium becomes a well organized and memorable attraction in the heart of Downtown Dubai.
