Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo — About, History, Tours & Visitor Guide

Inside The Dubai Mall, this world-class attraction features a 10-million-liter main tank, a 48-meter, 270° tunnel, and the family-favorite Underwater Zoo. Use this guide to learn the story, choose tickets and combos, and plan a smooth visit.

About Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Set across two levels of The Dubai Mall, the aquarium pairs a colossal ground-floor tank with a dramatic walk-through tunnel and an upstairs Underwater Zoo organized into three zones: Rainforest, Rocky Shore, and Living Ocean. Expect 140+ species, including 300+ sharks and rays, plus special habitats like Penguin Cove and the formidable King Croc.

What You’ll See

The signature 48 m tunnel offers 270° views 11 m below the surface, while the Underwater Zoo’s 40+ displays showcase otters, rays, reptiles, jellyfish, piranhas and more. Add-ons range from glass-bottom boat rides to cage snorkelling (age 8+).

Why It’s Popular

It’s easy, air-conditioned fun in Downtown Dubai and pairs well with Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. Timed entry keeps flows steady; mobile tickets scan at the door.

Brief History & Timeline

2008 — The Dubai Mall opens with the Aquarium & Underwater Zoo as a headline attraction, including the 48 m tunnel.
2014 — King Croc arrives from Australia (≈750 kg, >5 m long) and becomes a star resident.
2019–2025 — New experiences expand (e.g., Penguin Cove), and dive/snorkel programs grow for certified and first-time guests.

Tours & Ticket Options

Standard Entry (Aquarium + Zoo)

Includes the ground-floor tunnel and Level-2 Underwater Zoo. Plan 60–120 minutes for a relaxed visit.

Combo: Burj Khalifa + Aquarium

Downtown’s top duo—At the Top (Levels 124/125) plus aquarium access with one booking and smoother timing.

Combo: Aquarium + Sky Views

Pair the tunnel with Sky Views Observatory and its glass slide for skyline photos.

Trio: Burj + Aquarium + Sky Views

A full Downtown day in one pass—ideal for visitors with limited time who want the highlights.

Good to know: Open 365 days a year with typical hours Mon–Thu 10:00–23:00 (last entry ~22:15) and Fri–Sun 10:00–00:00 (last entry ~23:15). Mobile e-tickets scan at the entrance; many options allow free cancellation—always check your product page and times for your date.

What You’ll Experience Inside

Highlights & Layout

Start with the main tank and walk-through tunnel on the mall’s ground level, then head upstairs to the Underwater Zoo zones (Rainforest, Rocky Shore, Living Ocean). Look for feeding times and diver presentations.

48 m tunnel with 270° views, 11 m below the surface.
Glass-bottom boat ride above the main tank.
Penguin Cove (Gentoo penguins) in a chilled, multi-level habitat with seasonal light cycles.
King Croc (with Queen Croc) in a purpose-built enclosure.
Cage snorkelling (age 8+) and shark dives for certified/first-time divers.

Practical Pointers

Best time: Weekday mornings at opening or late afternoon/early evening tend to be calmer than weekends and holidays.

Getting there: Take Dubai Metro Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, then walk the air-conditioned Metro Link Bridge directly to the mall. Inside, follow signs for the Aquarium.

Visitor Cheatsheet

Opening Hours

Mon–Thu 10:00–23:00; Fri–Sun 10:00–00:00. Last entry typically 45–60 mins before closing.

Visit Duration

Allow 1–2 hours for tunnel + zoo; add time for penguins, boat rides, or snorkelling.

Location

The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai (Ground Level tunnel; Level 2 Underwater Zoo).

Accessibility

Step-free mall routes and lifts; aquarium pathways are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly.

Tickets

Timed entry; mobile QR codes scanned at the door. Combos help minimize queues and consolidate timing.

Photography

Non-flash photos are generally fine; tripods/lighting are usually restricted—follow on-site signage.

Ready to Plan Your Visit?

Choose standard entry, add a combo with Burj Khalifa or Sky Views, or go all-in with the trio—mobile tickets make it easy.