Last reviewed: 27 October 2026
Imagine walking through an underwater tunnel while sharks, rays and hundreds of colourful fish swim above and around you. That is the signature experience at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, one of the best-known indoor attractions inside Dubai Mall.
Located in Downtown Dubai, the aquarium combines an enormous 10-million-litre marine tank, a transparent underwater tunnel, wildlife habitats, Penguin Cove and optional animal encounters.
Whether you are looking for Dubai Aquarium ticket prices in 2026, wondering whether the aquarium can be viewed for free, or planning a family visit to Dubai Mall, this complete guide explains what is included in each ticket, current opening hours, the best attractions, visitor restrictions and transport options.
We also explain how to combine your visit with other experiences using our Best Things to Do in Dubai guide.
1. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Official name | Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo |
| Location | Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai |
| Main Aquarium Tunnel | Ground Floor |
| Underwater Zoo | Level 2 |
| Main tank capacity | Approximately 10 million litres |
| Main tank wildlife | More than 140 species |
| Underwater tunnel | 48 metres long, 270-degree viewing angle |
| Silver Pass | AED 199 |
| Gold Pass | AED 269 |
| Platinum Pass | AED 399 |
| UAE resident Silver promotion | AED 169, subject to conditions |
| Standard weekday hours | Monday–Friday, 11 AM–9 PM |
| Standard weekend hours | Saturday–Sunday, 10 AM–9 PM |
| Last entry | 8:15 PM |
| Nearest Metro | Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, Red Line R25 |
| General Dubai Mall entry | Free |
| Aquarium paid experiences | Separate ticket required |
| Recommended visit | Around 1.5–3 hours, depending on package |
Quick answer: Dubai Aquarium is inside Dubai Mall. You can see the enormous main tank from publicly accessible mall areas without buying an aquarium ticket, but the 48-metre Aquarium Tunnel, Underwater Zoo, Penguin Cove and special experiences require the appropriate paid admission.
2. Where Is Dubai Aquarium Located?
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is located inside Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai, close to Burj Khalifa.
The attraction is divided into different visitor areas rather than occupying one single level.
The main aquarium tank and entrance to the transparent tunnel are on the Ground Floor, while the Underwater Zoo is on Level 2.
View Dubai Aquarium on Google Maps.
Is Dubai Aquarium inside Mall of the Emirates?
No. Dubai Aquarium is inside Dubai Mall, whereas Ski Dubai is inside Mall of the Emirates in Al Barsha.
For a different indoor experience, see our Mall of the Emirates guide and Ski Dubai visitor guide.
3. Dubai Aquarium Ticket Prices in 2026
Choosing the right ticket is important because the attraction offers several admission packages, and the inclusions vary.
The current main products are Silver, Gold and Platinum.
Official ticket comparison
| Pass | Advertised price | Main features |
|---|---|---|
| Silver | AED 199 | Aquarium Tunnel, Underwater Zoo, Penguin Cove and AED 20 retail voucher |
| Gold | AED 269 | Silver experiences plus selected extras, including glass-bottom boat and fish feeding |
| Platinum | AED 399 | Gold experiences with skip-the-line benefits and additional encounters, photos and vouchers |
| UAE Resident Silver | AED 169 | Promotional Silver admission for qualifying UAE residents |
| Four-for-three Silver | AED 597 / four | Four eligible Silver admissions for the price of three |
| Aquarium + Burj Khalifa combo | AED 279 promotional | Selected Aquarium and At the Top experiences |
| Aquarium + Sky Views combo | AED 219 promotional | Selected Aquarium and Sky Views experiences |
Prices checked against the operator’s October 2026 booking page. Promotional pricing, inclusions, booking dates and eligibility may change.
What is included in the Silver Pass?
The Dubai Aquarium Silver Pass is the main entry-level paid admission product.
It covers the Aquarium Tunnel, the Underwater Zoo and Penguin Cove, with a retail voucher included under the current published terms.
This is a practical option for visitors who want the essential aquarium experience without paying for premium encounters.
Is Gold worth the extra money?
The Dubai Aquarium Gold Pass adds activities such as a glass-bottom boat tour and fish feeding under the current package description.
It may offer better value for visitors who want an extended experience rather than only observing animals through the viewing areas.
What do you get with Platinum?
The Dubai Aquarium Platinum Pass includes additional benefits such as priority admission, a complimentary animal encounter, digital photographs and selected vouchers.
Check the encounter choice, session availability and exact package conditions before purchasing.
Which ticket is best?
For a standard family visit, Silver is often sufficient.
Gold may suit visitors interested in the glass-bottom boat, while Platinum is more appropriate if its special encounters and extras genuinely appeal to your group.
Compare official Dubai Aquarium tickets and offers.
4. UAE Resident Discounts and Family Ticket Offers
Visitors searching for Dubai Aquarium discounts for UAE residents should check the official resident promotion before buying standard tickets.
UAE Resident Silver Offer
The operator advertises a Silver Pass promotion at AED 169 instead of AED 199 for qualifying UAE residents.
This represents a 15% advertised discount, subject to booking conditions and residency verification.
Carry a valid Emirates ID if required.
Four-for-three family offer
The official website advertises four Silver admissions for AED 597, compared with AED 796 when purchasing four full-price Silver tickets.
This can be useful for families or groups of four who all qualify for the same offer.
Aquarium and Burj Khalifa combo
The aquarium also offers a promotional combination with the At the Top Burj Khalifa experience.
This could suit tourists who want to combine marine-life viewing with Downtown Dubai skyline sightseeing.
Check whether the combination includes peak or off-peak observation-deck access before purchasing.
Do children get free tickets?
Do not rely on the old admission categories printed in outdated blog posts.
The attraction’s booking system specifies eligibility and age requirements for each product. Check the selected ticket category for children, infants and animal encounters before completing payment.
5. Dubai Aquarium Opening Hours in 2026
The official Dubai Aquarium visitor guide currently publishes:
| Day | Opening time | Closing time | Last entry |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monday | 11:00 AM | 9:00 PM | 8:15 PM |
| Tuesday | 11:00 AM | 9:00 PM | 8:15 PM |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM | 9:00 PM | 8:15 PM |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM | 9:00 PM | 8:15 PM |
| Friday | 11:00 AM | 9:00 PM | 8:15 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 AM | 9:00 PM | 8:15 PM |
| Sunday | 10:00 AM | 9:00 PM | 8:15 PM |
Important: Dubai Mall’s own attraction directory displays a different general opening schedule, so for ticketed aquarium visits, prioritize the aquarium operator’s current visitor guide and your booking confirmation.
Is Dubai Aquarium open every day?
The operator states that it opens 365 days a year, although unusual circumstances can affect specific experiences or operating hours.
Can you visit late in the evening?
Yes, provided you arrive before last entry. Remember that special encounters and activities may operate on separate schedules.
See the official Aquarium Visitor’s Guide for current hours.
6. Is Dubai Aquarium Free to Visit?
This is one of the most useful distinctions for tourists.
Is Dubai Aquarium free to see? Partly, yes.
You can view a substantial exterior section of the main aquarium tank from accessible public areas inside Dubai Mall.
You may see sharks, rays and other fish swimming behind the enormous viewing panel.
However, this is not the same as purchasing admission to the aquarium attraction.
What is free?
- General entrance to Dubai Mall.
- Viewing the main aquarium display from the public mall-side area.
- Taking personal photographs from permitted public viewpoints.
What requires a paid ticket?
- The enclosed Aquarium Tunnel.
- Underwater Zoo.
- Penguin Cove admission.
- Glass-bottom boat experiences.
- Animal encounters and special activities.
If you are on a tight budget, the exterior display is an excellent short stop during a Downtown Dubai shopping visit.
For more ideas like this, explore our Best Things to Do in Dubai, including free attractions.
7. The 48-Metre Dubai Aquarium Underwater Tunnel
The Dubai Aquarium underwater tunnel is the attraction’s most recognizable feature.
This transparent walkway extends approximately 48 metres through the main tank, providing a 270-degree perspective of marine life moving around visitors.
What animals can you see?
Depending on animal movement and the time of your visit, you may see sharks, rays and schools of fish.
The experience is particularly impressive when larger animals swim overhead.
How long does the tunnel take?
The tunnel itself can be crossed fairly quickly, but visitors often spend longer watching the marine life and taking photographs.
Photography tips
Choose a position away from bright reflections, avoid flash where prohibited and allow other guests to pass.
For a better experience, spend a few minutes observing the movement of the animals rather than rushing through.
8. What Is the Underwater Zoo?
The Underwater Zoo occupies Level 2 of Dubai Mall and introduces visitors to different freshwater, coastal and marine environments.
The operator identifies three principal ecological zones:
| Ecological zone | Experience |
|---|---|
| Rainforest | Freshwater and tropical habitats, including reptiles and other animals |
| Rocky Shore | Coastal and intertidal wildlife |
| Living Ocean | Marine habitats and ocean life |
The zoo contains numerous animal displays, with educational information about different species and their environments.
Rainforest zone
This area focuses on freshwater ecosystems and tropical wildlife.
Animals can include fish, reptiles, amphibians and otters, subject to the current collection.
Rocky Shore
The Rocky Shore area explores organisms adapted to life where land meets water.
Some displays provide opportunities to learn about coastal creatures and their environmental adaptations.
Living Ocean
Living Ocean focuses on marine ecosystems, their animals and ocean biodiversity.
Different visitor exhibits and special habitats may be associated with the broader Underwater Zoo experience.
9. Penguin Cove at Dubai Aquarium
Dubai Aquarium Penguin Cove is a popular attraction for families and wildlife enthusiasts.
It houses Gentoo penguins in a managed environment designed for their welfare and care.
Can you see penguins with a Silver ticket?
Yes. Penguin Cove is included in the operator’s published Silver Pass package.
Does this include a Penguin Encounter?
No. Viewing the penguins and booking a dedicated animal encounter are different experiences.
The official Penguin Encounter is advertised separately at AED 130, subject to availability and applicable admission conditions.
Is Penguin Cove suitable for children?
It can be a memorable family attraction, particularly for children interested in wildlife and conservation.
Always follow animal welfare rules and staff instructions.
10. King Croc and Other Wildlife Encounters
The Underwater Zoo also features larger reptiles and special animal experiences.
King Croc
One of the attraction’s well-known animals is a large crocodile, commonly promoted as King Croc.
Visitors can observe the crocodile habitat as part of the zoo experience, subject to exhibit availability.
King Croc Encounter
The official operator advertises a separate King Croc Encounter at AED 130.
This is a specialist experience and should not be assumed to be part of a standard Silver ticket.
Otters, rays and other encounters
Additional paid animal experiences may include:
| Encounter | Advertised starting price |
|---|---|
| Penguin Encounter | AED 130 |
| King Croc Encounter | AED 130 |
| Otter Encounter | AED 130 |
| Ray Encounter | AED 100 |
| Sloth Encounter | AED 100 |
| Shark Trainer Encounter | AED 100 |
| Bird Encounter | AED 50 |
| Reptile Encounter | AED 50 |
Availability, age restrictions, interaction procedures and what is included vary.
Book animal activities directly through the attraction’s official website and follow the welfare and safety instructions.
11. Glass-Bottom Boat Experience
The Dubai Aquarium glass-bottom boat ride provides a different viewpoint over the aquarium’s marine environment.
Instead of walking through the tunnel, passengers can observe aquatic animals from above through the transparent section of the boat.
Is the glass-bottom boat included in Silver?
Not under the current standard Silver description.
It is among the extras featured in the Gold and Platinum packages.
Is it suitable for families?
It can appeal to families who want a calm, guided marine-life experience.
Before booking, check minimum age requirements, safety restrictions and whether the ride is operating on your chosen date.
12. Dubai Aquarium With Kids: Is It Worth Visiting?
Is Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo good for children? Yes, particularly for families seeking an indoor attraction with educational value.
The aquarium combines visually striking animals, different habitats and optional experiences for older or eligible children.
Best activities for families
| Activity | Family appeal |
|---|---|
| Main aquarium viewing panel | Large fish, sharks and rays |
| Aquarium Tunnel | Immersive underwater perspective |
| Penguin Cove | Observation of penguin behaviour |
| Underwater Zoo | Wildlife education |
| Glass-bottom boat | Different view of marine life |
| Special encounters | Additional hands-on or guided experiences where eligible |
What about toddlers?
For young children, consider attention span, crowds, stroller access and the duration of the visit.
Some special animal experiences have age or supervision requirements.
Family budget example
For four eligible visitors purchasing the advertised four-for-three Silver promotion, the ticket total would be AED 597.
Food, transport and extra encounters are separate expenses.
For a very different family-friendly animal experience, visit our The Green Planet Dubai guide.
13. How to Reach Dubai Aquarium by Metro
Visitors commonly search for how to reach Dubai Aquarium by Metro.
The nearest practical Dubai Metro station is Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall (R25) on the Red Line.
Step-by-step directions
- Board the Dubai Metro Red Line.
- Exit at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station R25.
- Follow the signs to Dubai Mall.
- Use the pedestrian connection into the shopping centre.
- Follow signs for Dubai Aquarium on the Ground Floor.
The aquarium is not directly inside the Metro station, so allow time to walk through the mall.
From Business Bay
Take the Red Line from Business Bay to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, then follow the mall connection.
Read our Business Bay Metro Station guide for station information and connecting routes.
From Bur Dubai or Deira
Use the Red Line directly where available or transfer from the Green Line at Union or BurJuman.
Our BurJuman Metro Station guide explains the Red–Green Line interchange.
From Mall of the Emirates
Board a Red Line service toward Downtown Dubai and exit at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall.
For the starting station, see our Mall of the Emirates Metro Station guide.
From Dubai International Airport
Airport Terminals 1 and 3 have Metro Red Line access.
Take the service toward Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall and follow the current train destination signs.
For updates on fares, operating times and service changes, use the official Dubai RTA website.
14. Getting There by Car, Taxi and Parking
Dubai Aquarium is inside Dubai Mall, which provides extensive visitor parking.
The mall’s attraction directory identifies Grand Parking, P2 as a parking location for Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.
By car
Follow navigation to Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai, then use the mall’s parking signage to reach a convenient entrance.
By taxi
Ask to be dropped off at Dubai Mall and follow the signs toward the aquarium.
Parking fees
Dubai Mall’s parking policy and access arrangements are separate from the aquarium ticket.
Check the mall’s current parking conditions rather than assuming parking is always free.
15. Best Time to Visit Dubai Aquarium
The best time to visit Dubai Aquarium depends on your tolerance for crowds and whether you have booked a special encounter.
Weekday visits
Weekdays outside school holidays may be more comfortable for relaxed viewing, though crowds vary.
Morning visits
Visiting near opening time can be practical if you want to explore the exhibits before moving on to other Downtown Dubai attractions.
Weekend visits
Weekend afternoons and evenings can be busy, particularly when Dubai Mall is crowded.
Summer visits
Dubai Aquarium is an indoor attraction and is therefore suitable for Dubai’s hotter months.
For additional indoor activities, compare our Ski Dubai guide and Dubai Hills Mall guide.
16. How Much Time Do You Need at Dubai Aquarium?
| Type of visit | Suggested planning time |
|---|---|
| Free exterior tank viewing | 10–20 minutes |
| Silver Pass | Approximately 1.5–2 hours |
| Gold Pass | Approximately 2–3 hours |
| Platinum Pass | Approximately 2–4 hours, depending on activity bookings |
| Aquarium + Downtown sightseeing | Half-day or longer |
These are visitor-planning estimates rather than fixed admission durations.
If you’ve booked an animal encounter, arrive at the time stated in your booking confirmation.
17. Aquarium vs Green Planet vs Ski Dubai
Visitors choosing between best indoor attractions in Dubai for families may find this comparison useful.
| Attraction | Main experience | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo | Aquatic animals, tunnel and penguins | Dubai Mall |
| The Green Planet | Tropical rainforest and wildlife | City Walk |
| Ski Dubai | Snow play and winter sports | Mall of the Emirates |
| Dubai Frame | Observation deck and skyline | Zabeel Park |
Dubai Aquarium vs The Green Planet
Dubai Aquarium focuses on aquatic habitats and specialist wildlife encounters.
The Green Planet recreates an indoor tropical rainforest with birds, reptiles, mammals and different ecological levels.
See our Green Planet guide for tickets and comparisons.
Dubai Aquarium vs Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai focuses on indoor snow, skiing and winter-themed activities, making it a different sort of family attraction.
Compare the options in our Ski Dubai complete guide.
18. Nearby Attractions Around Dubai Mall
One of the benefits of visiting Dubai Aquarium is its Downtown Dubai location.
Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa is a major landmark directly associated with Downtown Dubai.
Aquarium and At the Top combination tickets may help visitors organize both experiences.
Downtown Dubai waterfront
Public promenades and accessible areas around Downtown Dubai provide views of the surrounding skyline.
Dubai Frame
Dubai Frame is another major observation attraction in a different part of the city.
Our Dubai Frame visitor guide covers tickets, operating hours and Metro access.
More free and paid activities
If you’re planning a longer trip, our Best Things to Do in Dubai 2026–2027 guide compares free sights, paid attractions, shopping and family entertainment.
19. Sample Dubai Aquarium Itineraries
Two-hour aquarium visit
Explore the Aquarium Tunnel, spend time observing the main tank and continue to the Underwater Zoo and Penguin Cove.
This is the most practical approach for visitors using the standard Silver ticket.
Family half-day
Begin at Dubai Aquarium, enjoy lunch inside Dubai Mall and spend time exploring other family-friendly activities.
Aquarium and Burj Khalifa
Book an appropriate combination ticket, visit the aquarium and allow sufficient time to reach the Burj Khalifa observation-deck entrance.
Budget Downtown Dubai outing
View the exterior aquarium tank for free, browse Dubai Mall and enjoy public Downtown viewpoints where accessible.
20. Practical Tips Before Booking
Compare passes before paying. Silver, Gold and Platinum offer different experiences and prices.
Check resident discounts. Eligible UAE residents may qualify for the advertised Silver promotion.
Book animal encounters in advance. Spaces can be limited, and some sessions have strict age and timing conditions.
Check the aquarium’s own operating hours. These differ from general Dubai Mall opening hours.
Allow time for the Metro walkway. Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station is connected to the mall but isn’t immediately beside the aquarium entrance.
Keep your confirmation. Have tickets and required identification ready for entry.
Observe animal welfare rules. Follow staff instructions and avoid flash photography where prohibited.
Check accessibility needs in advance. Confirm suitability for wheelchairs, strollers or visitors with specific mobility requirements.
21. Frequently Asked Questions About Dubai Aquarium
How much is Dubai Aquarium entry in 2026?
Official published prices are AED 199 for Silver, AED 269 for Gold and AED 399 for Platinum.
Is Dubai Aquarium free?
The large exterior aquarium display can be seen from public areas of Dubai Mall without an aquarium ticket. The paid tunnel and Underwater Zoo require admission.
Where is Dubai Aquarium located?
Inside Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai. The main Aquarium Tunnel is on the Ground Floor, while the Underwater Zoo is on Level 2.
What is the nearest Metro station?
Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall on the Red Line, station R25.
What are the opening hours?
The aquarium operator currently lists 11 AM–9 PM Monday–Friday and 10 AM–9 PM Saturday–Sunday, with last entry at 8:15 PM.
Is Penguin Cove included?
Yes. The standard Silver Pass includes Penguin Cove, but a dedicated Penguin Encounter is a separate experience.
Can you see sharks inside the tunnel?
Yes. Sharks and rays are among the large aquatic animals visible in the main tank.
How long is the Aquarium Tunnel?
Approximately 48 metres, with a 270-degree viewing angle.
How long does the visit take?
Allow roughly 1.5–3 hours for the main aquarium and zoo, or longer when booked experiences are included.
What is the difference between Silver and Gold?
Gold adds selected experiences beyond Silver, including the glass-bottom boat and fish feeding under the published ticket conditions.
Is there a UAE resident discount?
The operator currently advertises a Silver ticket at AED 169 for qualifying UAE residents.
Is there a family ticket?
A four-for-three Silver offer is advertised at AED 597 for four eligible visitors.
Are animal encounters included in Platinum?
The published Platinum package includes a complimentary encounter, subject to its booking conditions and available choices.
Is Dubai Aquarium suitable for toddlers?
The main viewing experience can be suitable for families with young children, although special activities have their own age and safety requirements.
Can I take photographs?
Personal photography is generally permitted in designated areas, subject to restrictions around sensitive habitats, animal encounters and equipment.
Is Dubai Aquarium inside Dubai Mall?
Yes. It is not in Mall of the Emirates.
Can I combine Dubai Aquarium and Burj Khalifa?
Yes. The operator offers selected combination packages.
Is Dubai Aquarium open during summer?
Yes. The attraction is indoors and normally operates throughout the year.
Should I buy tickets online?
Advance online booking is recommended when you want a particular experience, discount or timeslot.
22. Final Verdict: Is Dubai Aquarium Worth Visiting in 2026?
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo remains one of the best indoor things to do in Dubai for families, couples and first-time tourists.
Its main attractions are the 48-metre underwater tunnel, large marine tank, Penguin Cove and the opportunity to observe animals across several habitats.
For most first-time visitors, the Silver Pass offers the essential experience. Gold or Platinum may provide better value for people interested in the additional activities.
If you’re only exploring Dubai Mall on a budget, the free exterior aquarium viewing panel is still worth seeing.
Combine your aquarium visit with nearby Downtown sights, then explore the wider city through our ExploreInDubai homepage, Dubai Attractions, Dubai Metro Guides and Best Things to Do in Dubai.
Official References
- Dubai Aquarium — Official Tickets and Offers
- Dubai Aquarium — Visitor’s Guide
- Dubai Aquarium — About the Tank, Tunnel and Underwater Zoo
- Dubai Mall — Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
- Dubai RTA
Editorial review: 27 October 2026. Prices, promotions, opening hours, animal encounters and entry conditions can change. Always confirm your booking details with the official operator.
