Dubai Aquarium

Dubai Aquarium

Dubai is known for its sandy topology and innovative, city architecture, but a hidden treasure resides in the Dubai Mall. Feast your eyes on the Dubai Aquarium where you'll meet hundreds of different aquatic friends. Learn about the ocean, and its importance to humans and the Earth. Take a glimpse at just a few of the features that you'll experience at this huge, underwater zoo.

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Suspended Aquarium and Tunnel

More than 2-million gallons of water fill the main tank at the Dubai Aquarium. As you walk into the building, you'll be greeted by a wall of fish that frolic in many feet of water. In fact, you'll notice which fish prefer specific water depths, from huge bass at the bottom to small, sardines near the top. There are many other smaller tanks nestled inside the aquarium that are just waiting to be discovered. One particular favorite among families is the tunnel tank. Walk underneath the fish, sharks and turtles as they swim about their habitat. Children may never want to leave this tank.

Feeding the Creatures

Although watching the fish swim about is fascinating, you also want to see more natural behaviors. Take a look at the day's activities that are posted at the aquarium. Several animal feedings take place each day. You might watch the sting rays or sharks being fed, for example. However, the big attraction is usually the King Croc. This huge crocodile is longer than 16 feet, and he continues to grow because he's only 40 years old. Be first in line to see this reptile eat his meal because it is a sight that you won't normally see in the wild.

Riding the Glass-Bottom Boats

One of the most unique parts of the Dubai Aquarium is the glass-bottom boats. These vessels aren't outside on a typical pond or lake. In fact, these boats are situated on the largest tank at the aquarium. Reserve your seat on one of the small boats that venture across the tank's surface. The densely packed fish will be easily visible just below you. Aquarium lights illuminate the entire tank, so that you're able to see incredibly far. Some visitors may even see a shark somewhere in the distance.

Snorkeling and Diving With the Sharks

Venturing out into the ocean for a snorkel or dive is fraught with difficulties. At the Dubai Aquarium, you can perform either of these activities in the large tank. Because the aquarium is a controlled environment, almost anyone with the necessary training can hop into the water and experience the fishy fun. There are diving instructors that are available to help you out if necessary. As long as you're 10 years of age or older, the diving experience is yours to explore.

Indigenous Nocturnal Animals

The Dubai Aquarium also has an exhibit that features the nocturnal animals that live in the Middle-East area. Get to know the barn owl, hedgehog, fruit bat and false cobra after you explore the fish habitats. These animals allow you to understand the Middle-East region and its connection to the desert. In many cases, you may not have realized that these animals even existed in this area. Because they're nocturnal, you might want to reserve your visit for the evening hours when they're most active.

Visiting hours at the Dubai Aquarium will vary throughout the year, but it's normally open until late at night. If you're enjoying the Dubai climate during the warmer months, schedule a trip to the aquarium in the afternoon. Enjoy the climate-controlled aquarium during the hottest part of the day. You'll learn something new and emerge into the cooler evening later on.

Tip: with a Big Bus Dubai ticket you get free access to the Dubai Aquarium.