Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo — Best Activities & Things to Do (2025)
Walk the iconic 48 m tunnel, see sharks and rays in a 10-million-liter tank, and visit the family-friendly Underwater Zoo inside The Dubai Mall. Use this guide to pick the right ticket, plan your visit, and pair the aquarium with nearby must-dos in Downtown Dubai.
Top Experiences Inside Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
48 m Aquarium Tunnel
A 270° acrylic walkthrough with sharks, rays and swirling schools of fish—Dubai’s classic photo spot.
Underwater Zoo (Level 2)
Explore Rainforest, Rocky Shore and Living Ocean zones with reptiles, jellyfish and more.
Penguin Cove
Meet lively Gentoo penguins in a chilled, multi-level habitat with lighting that mimics Antarctic cycles.
Glass-Bottom Boat
Glide over the massive main tank and watch the underwater world unfold beneath your feet.
Cage Snorkelling (8+)
Hop into a secure cage for close-up views of marine life—no dive certification required.
King Croc
See the legendary saltwater crocodile—about 750 kg and over 5 m long—plus Queen Croc.
Great Things to Do Near the Aquarium (Downtown Dubai)
Burj Khalifa
Pair the aquarium with At the Top (Levels 124/125) for sweeping skyline views—easy same-day combo.
Dubai Fountain
Catch evening shows at Burj Lake; add a fountain boat ride for front-row views.
Souk Al Bahar
Stroll the bridge from the mall for waterside cafés, dinner spots and fountain vistas.
Dubai Ice Rink
Cool off on the Olympic-size rink inside the mall—fun add-on with kids and teens.
Dubai Opera District
Walkable culture hub with performances, dining and striking architecture.
Promenade Walks
Loop the waterfront for relaxed photos of Burj Khalifa, the lake and downtown towers.
Which Ticket Should You Choose?
Entry Ticket
Includes the Aquarium Tunnel (Ground Level) and the Underwater Zoo (Level 2). Plan 60–120 minutes.
Burj Khalifa + Aquarium
Best-value downtown duo: At the Top (124/125) plus aquarium entry with one simple booking.
Aquarium + Sky Views
Pair the tunnel with Sky Views Observatory and its glass slide for epic photos.
Trio: Burj + Aquarium + Sky Views
One pass for a full Downtown day—streamlines timing and minimizes queueing.
Good to know: Mobile e-tickets are scanned at entry. Many options offer free cancellation up to 24 hours—always check your product page.
Food & Drink Picks Near the Aquarium
Mall Food Halls
Quick global eats across The Dubai Mall—easy with families between attractions.
Waterfront Terraces
Dine along Burj Lake for fountain views; reserve sunset tables on weekends.
Souk Al Bahar
Short walk over the bridge for Middle Eastern plates, cafés and dessert stops.
Coffee & Treats
Plenty of specialty coffee bars and gelato shops inside and around the mall.
Quick Visitor Tips
Best Time
Weekday mornings (at opening) and late afternoons are calmer than weekends/holidays.
How Long
Expect 1–2 hours for tunnel + zoo; add time for penguins, boat rides or snorkelling.
Opening Hours
Typically 10:00–22:00 daily; last entry ~21:15. Check your date for changes.
Getting There
Metro Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, then walk indoors via the Metro Link Bridge.
Accessibility
Step-free routes and lifts in the mall; aquarium paths are stroller- and wheelchair-friendly.
Photography
Non-flash photos are generally fine; tripods/lights usually restricted—follow on-site signs.
Ready to Plan Your Aquarium Day?
Pick entry, a combo with Burj Khalifa or Sky Views, or go all-in with the trio—mobile tickets make it easy.
