Dubai’s Underwater Zoo
Dubai is a city known for its world records and over-the-top experiences, and the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo inside The Dubai Mall is no exception. Located right in the heart of the city’s most famous shopping destination, this aquatic adventure is more than just a quick photo stop. It’s a chance to walk beneath one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world and then journey upward into an entire zoo built around the mysteries of marine life.
The experience begins with the main aquarium tank, which holds over 10 million liters of water and thousands of aquatic animals. Sharks, rays, and schools of exotic fish glide past as you walk through the 48-meter-long tunnel, giving you the surreal sensation of stepping inside the ocean without getting wet. The tunnel alone could be the highlight of the visit, but it’s only the beginning.
From there, the path takes you to the Underwater Zoo on the second floor. This section is divided into themed environments such as Rainforest, Rocky Shore, and Living Ocean, each designed to highlight unique ecosystems and the creatures that call them home. You’ll find everything from playful otters and penguins to giant spider crabs, piranhas, and glow-in-the-dark jellyfish. One of the biggest stars of the zoo is King Croc, a massive saltwater crocodile weighing over 750 kilograms. Seeing him up close is both awe-inspiring and a little intimidating.
What makes the Underwater Zoo special is how interactive it feels. Beyond just looking through glass, there are opportunities to book behind-the-scenes tours, feed rays, or even take a glass-bottom boat ride over the aquarium. For those seeking a real thrill, there are experiences like cage snorkeling and shark dives, proving that Dubai never does anything halfway.
Visiting the aquarium and zoo is also surprisingly family-friendly. Kids are fascinated by the colorful fish and quirky creatures, while adults can appreciate the sheer scale and creativity of the design. The fact that it’s inside The Dubai Mall means you can pair your visit with a day of shopping, dining, and perhaps even ice skating or watching the famous fountain show outside. But, I’ll be honest, there was no way we saw all of this in one day. We walked through the mall for several days enjoying as much as we can get in. Stating that the mall is massive is an understatement.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Dubai or returning for another round of adventures, the Underwater Zoo deserves a spot on your itinerary. It’s a perfect blend of education, entertainment, and spectacle—the kind of experience Dubai has mastered. Walking out of the dimly lit tunnel and back into the glittering mall, you can’t help but marvel at how this city brings the wildest dreams of both land and sea to life.
Tips for Visiting the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
If you’re planning a visit to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, a little preparation goes a long way in making the most of your experience. The attraction is located inside The Dubai Mall, so it’s easily accessible by taxi, Metro (Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station), or even a pleasant walk through the air-conditioned footbridge.
The aquarium is open daily, usually from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm on weekdays and until midnight on weekends, but it’s always best to check timings in advance as they may vary. Mornings are the quietest time to go, especially during weekdays, while evenings and weekends tend to draw heavier crowds. If you want to enjoy the tunnel without feeling rushed, aim for an early visit.
Tickets can be purchased online or at the counter, and packages vary depending on what you’d like to experience. A standard ticket usually includes the aquarium tunnel and the Underwater Zoo, while upgraded passes may add extras like a behind-the-scenes tour, ray feeding, or a glass-bottom boat ride. Booking online not only saves time but often comes with small discounts.
Families with kids should plan at least two hours here, since little ones will want to linger at each exhibit. Comfortable shoes are a must, as The Dubai Mall itself is massive, and pairing your visit with nearby attractions like the Dubai Fountain show or the Burj Khalifa observation deck makes for a full, unforgettable day.
Finally, don’t forget your camera. The mix of glowing tanks, colorful marine life, and unique angles from the tunnel make for stunning photos, especially if you’re aiming to capture those Insta-worthy moments. Just remember: flash photography is restricted, so plan your shots accordingly.
