Inside Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai, this aquarium pairs a huge main tank with a walk-through tunnel and an Underwater Zoo on Level 2. Sharks, rays and shoals of fish pass around the 48-metre tunnel, while the zoo’s Rainforest, Rocky Shore and Living Ocean zones include otters, piranhas and Gentoo penguins. King Croc is another notable resident. You can see part of the main tank from the mall without buying admission; a ticket takes you into the tunnel and zoo, with add-on experiences available.
The aquarium inside Dubai Mall
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is inside Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai. The main tank is visible from the mall, so you can stop to watch the fish without entering the ticketed attraction. Paid access adds the aquarium tunnel and the Underwater Zoo, which is upstairs on Level 2.
The main tank holds sharks, rays and many other fish. The tunnel runs through the water and gives you views from around and above the walkway. It is 48 metres long, so pause to look for animals as they pass rather than expecting a long walk through the tank.
Three habitats in the Underwater Zoo
The zoo is arranged into three ecological zones: Rainforest, Rocky Shore and Living Ocean. Each gives the visit a different focus, with animals from a range of aquatic environments. Look for piranhas and giant catfish in the Rainforest zone, and otters and crustaceans in the Rocky Shore area. Gentoo penguins and jellyfish are among the animals associated with the Living Ocean.
King Croc is one of the attraction’s best-known residents. The displays also include smaller marine creatures, so take time to look beyond the larger animals that first draw attention. The exhibits have an educational purpose as well as being a chance to observe wildlife up close.
Optional encounters and ticket choices
The basic ticket covers the Aquarium Tunnel and Underwater Zoo. Some higher-tier options include additional activities, such as a glass-bottom boat ride, fish feeding or animal encounters. The exact inclusions depend on the ticket you select, so check what is included before booking if one particular activity is the reason for your visit.
The attraction also has interactive experiences, and some encounters require a suitable ticket. Advance booking is recommended for popular activities. If you only want a glimpse of the main tank, you can view it from inside the mall without entering the paid areas. That makes it possible to see the aquarium even if you do not have time for the full visit.
Planning your visit
Set aside around 1.5 to 2.5 hours for the aquarium and zoo, especially if you intend to add an encounter or ride. An early weekday visit is a practical choice if you would prefer fewer people around the exhibits. The aquarium is also easy to combine with shopping or a meal elsewhere in Dubai Mall.
The tunnel is a compact part of the visit, so do not hurry through it. Stop to watch the sharks and rays and take in the changing views before continuing upstairs. If you are visiting with children, the range of animals and interactive options can help keep the visit engaging; decide in advance whether the standard admission or an activity-inclusive ticket better suits your plans.
FAQ
Where is Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo?
It is inside Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai. The aquarium’s main tank is on the mall level, and the Underwater Zoo is on Level 2.
How long should I plan for a visit?
Allow about 1.5 to 2.5 hours for a full visit, including optional activities.
Can I see the aquarium without buying a ticket?
You can view part of the main tank from inside Dubai Mall. The tunnel and Underwater Zoo are part of the ticketed visit.
What is included in the standard ticket?
The standard ticket includes access to the Aquarium Tunnel and Underwater Zoo. Some ticket options add experiences such as fish feeding or a glass-bottom boat ride.
