The National Aquarium is in Al Qana, Abu Dhabi, with ten themed zones spanning habitats from the Arabian Gulf and Red Sea to the Amazon. More than 46,000 animals live here, including fish, sharks, rays, reptiles and birds. The walk-through glass tunnel puts you beneath swimming sharks and rays, while exhibits such as the Red Sea Wreck, The Sub and Frozen Ocean give the visit a change of pace. Families can also look for interactive activities and the Flooded Forest playground. Allow about 90 minutes to explore.
Ten habitats under one roof
Opened in 2021, The National Aquarium is in Abu Dhabi’s Al Qana district. Its ten themed zones take you through aquatic environments from the Arabian Gulf to the Amazon. Across the exhibits, more than 46,000 animals represent over 300 species.
The zone names include UAE’s Natural Treasures, Atlantic Cave, Red Sea Wreck, The Sub, Ring of Fire, Frozen Ocean, Aqua Magic, The Flooded Forest and Bu Tinah Island. Each area gives the visit a different setting, with marine life alongside reptiles, birds and other animals. The range makes this a useful indoor stop for families and anyone interested in aquatic habitats.
The tunnel and standout animals
The walk-through glass tunnel is a central highlight: fish, sharks and rays move around and above you as you pass through the tank. A glass-bottom boat tour is another way to view marine life, and glass bridges are also available as additional experiences.
Look out for the reticulated python known as Super Snake, which is about seven metres long. Other animals mentioned among the aquarium’s marine life include blacktip reef sharks, eagle rays, pufferfish, clownfish and eel catfish. The exhibits also include coral and sea turtles.
Family activities and planning your visit
The aquarium has interactive experiences and educational activities for children. In the Flooded Forest, Bella and Rio’s playground gives younger visitors a place to play. The Professor Aquademy programme adds activities designed to help children learn about marine life.
Plan for around 90 minutes to see the zones. Weekdays and early mornings are suggested for a quieter visit. Ticket choices include general admission, combination experiences and premium tickets, so check the aquarium’s website ahead of time to compare what suits your plans. Hands-on activities can be checked at the ticket counters. Cameras are welcome, but flash photography is not.
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Where is The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi?
It is in Al Qana, in Abu Dhabi.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Plan for about 90 minutes to explore the aquarium.
What can you see at the aquarium?
The ten themed zones contain more than 46,000 animals, including fish, sharks, rays, reptiles and birds. The walk-through glass tunnel is a highlight.
Is The National Aquarium suitable for children?
Yes. It has interactive activities, the Professor Aquademy programme and a playground in the Flooded Forest.
When is a good time to visit?
Weekdays or early mornings are suggested if you want to avoid crowds.
