Nestled in the heart of the world’s largest shopping and entertainment destination, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo at Dubai Mall is an awe-inspiring marvel that blends education, entertainment, and marine conservation. Housing more than 33,000 marine animals, including the world-renowned Sand Tiger sharks, this attraction is one of the largest suspended aquariums globally and a must-visit for tourists and residents alike.
In this guide, we’ll explore everything you need to know about the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: the unique experiences offered, detailed ticket pricing, flexible payment options including Tabby and Tamara, best times to visit, and a breakdown of each section in the attraction. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a family with children, or a couple looking for a memorable experience, this comprehensive resource will help you plan the perfect visit.
What is the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo?
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is a world-class marine exhibit located on the Ground Level and Level 2 of the Dubai Mall. The main attraction is the 10-million-liter tank, which measures 51 meters in length, 20 meters in width, and 11 meters in height. It houses thousands of aquatic animals from over 140 species. The Underwater Zoo, located just above the main aquarium, expands the marine experience by showcasing a variety of ecological environments and species.
What makes the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo so unique is not just its size or location—it’s the wide variety of experiences it offers. From the famed Aquarium Tunnel to the educational Underwater Zoo and interactive experiences like Penguin Cove, there’s something here for everyone.
Dubai Mall Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Experiences
1. The Aquarium Tunnel
The Aquarium Tunnel is a 48-meter walkthrough tunnel that offers a captivating 270-degree view of the massive tank. As you walk through the tunnel, you’ll see majestic Sand Tiger sharks, graceful rays, and colorful schools of fish swimming above and around you. It’s the perfect spot for photography and gives you a feeling of being completely immersed in the ocean.
2. The Underwater Zoo
Located above the main tank, the Underwater Zoo is an interactive educational exhibit that takes you on a journey through three distinct ecological zones:
- Rainforest: Home to piranhas, frogs, and other rainforest dwellers.
- Rocky Shore: Featuring playful otters and other creatures that thrive in tidal environments.
- Living Ocean: Focused on marine life from the open seas like jellyfish and seahorses.
This area is rich in educational content and ideal for children and adults alike who want to learn more about aquatic life and marine conservation.
3. Penguin Cove
One of the most popular sections of the Underwater Zoo is Penguin Cove. Home to a charming colony of Gentoo penguins, this exhibit recreates their natural icy habitat. Visitors can enjoy watching these playful birds waddle and swim through their frigid enclosure. The Penguin Encounter also allows for a more interactive and guided experience with these lovable animals.
Ticket Options and Dubai Mall Aquarium Ticket Price
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo offers a variety of ticket options to cater to all types of visitors. Below is a breakdown of the available packages:
Basic Pass (AED 199)
- Access to the Aquarium Tunnel
- Entry to the Underwater Zoo
- Visit to Penguin Cove
Ultimate Experience (AED 269)
- All features of the Basic Pass
- Glass-bottom boat ride
- Fish feeding session
- Behind-the-scenes tour
VIP Experience (AED 399)
- Skip-the-line access
- Guided tour
- Complimentary animal encounter
- All benefits of the Explorer Experience
Annual Pass (AED 400 – 500)
- Unlimited access to the Aquarium and Zoo
- Discounted rates on experiences and merchandise
Combo Tickets (Varied pricing)
- Bundle your ticket with other attractions such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Ice Rink, or KidZania
- Ideal for families and tourists wanting to maximize their Dubai Mall visit
These tickets can be purchased on-site or through White Sky Travel, which offers the added benefit of paying in installments using Tabby and Tamara.
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo Timings
Planning your visit is crucial to make the most of your time at the Dubai Mall Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. Here are the official timings:
- Monday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Last admission at 10:15 PM)
- Friday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight (Last admission at 11:15 PM)
Best Time to Visit
- Weekday mornings: Fewer crowds, ideal for photography
- Late evenings: Enjoy a peaceful, romantic visit
- Holidays and weekends: Busy but festive atmosphere
Unique Activities at the Underwater Aquarium Dubai Mall
Glass-Bottom Boat Ride
- Ride over the massive tank in a glass-bottom boat.
- Get a unique bird’s-eye view of sharks and rays beneath your feet.
Cage Snorkeling
- A safe and thrilling way to get up close to marine animals.
- Great for first-time snorkelers and families.
Shark Dive
- For certified divers, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with Sand Tiger sharks.
- Pre-dive briefing and full equipment provided.
VRZOO
- A virtual reality experience that allows you to explore endangered species and remote habitats.
- Combines education and technology in an immersive format.
Educational and Conservation Programs
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo plays a significant role in marine conservation and public education. School programs, workshops, and guided tours are available throughout the year. These sessions help foster awareness about ocean sustainability, pollution, and endangered species.
Interactive learning stations, live feeding sessions, and keeper talks are designed to engage children and inspire future marine biologists.
Tips for Visitors
- Purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines.
- Use Tabby or Tamara to split your payment into easy installments.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the attraction involves a lot of walking.
- Check for combo deals to include multiple Dubai Mall attractions.
- Visit during off-peak hours for the best experience.
- Follow the rules and do not tap on the glass or use flash photography.
Dubai Mall Aquarium Price Guide (2025 Update)
| Ticket Type | Price (AED) | Inclusions |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Pass | 199 | Tunnel + Zoo + Penguin Cove |
| Explorer Experience | 269 | Basic + Boat + Feeding + Behind-the-Scenes |
| VIP Experience | 399 | Explorer + Skip-line + Animal Encounter + Guided Tour |
| Annual Pass | 400 – 500 | Unlimited access + Discounts |
| Combo Tickets | Varies | Includes other Dubai Mall attractions |
Final Thoughts
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is more than just an attraction—it’s an educational experience, a conservation initiative, and a source of family fun. With various ticket packages, flexible payment methods through Tabby and Tamara, and a wealth of activities, it’s no surprise that this venue ranks among Dubai’s top tourist destinations.
To book your tickets or for more information, send us a WhatsApp message at +97142202133.
Overview
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo at Dubai Mall is a world-class marine attraction featuring a massive suspended aquarium, immersive experiences like the Aquarium Tunnel, Penguin Cove, and educational zones. With flexible ticket options and installment payments via Tabby and Tamara, it’s a must-visit destination for families, couples, and solo travelers in Dubai.
