Hello, world travelers! I'm excited to take you on a deep dive into the heart of Dubai, and specifically the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, one of the city's premier attractions and a gem in the crown of the iconic Dubai Mall. Here's a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about the aquarium including its timings, ticket prices, and its unique shows.
Timings:
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo are open all seven days of the week. From Sunday to Wednesday, it opens at 10 AM and closes at 10 PM, and from Thursday to Saturday, it is open from 10 AM until midnight. The timings are well adjusted to match the shopping hours of Dubai Mall itself, giving visitors ample time to explore the incredible marine life and then indulge in a shopping spree or dine at one of the many restaurants in the mall. Do note that the last admission is 45 minutes prior to closing.
Ticket Prices:
There are several ticket options available that cater to different preferences. All prices mentioned here are as of my visit in May 2023, and I'd recommend checking the official website for the most current pricing:
Explorer Package: This is priced at AED 175 per person and includes access to the Aquarium Tunnel, Underwater Zoo, Behind the Scenes tour, and a Submersible Simulator.
Researcher Experience: Priced at AED 200 per person, this package includes the Aquarium Tunnel, Underwater Zoo, Behind the Scenes tour, Submersible Simulator, and a glass-bottom boat ride.
Encounter Package: For AED 230 per person, this package includes everything in the Researcher Experience plus a chance to experience an animal encounter.
VIP Line Buster: At AED 350, you get access to all of the above plus priority entry to all zones, and you don't have to queue for any exhibits. This is a great option if you're on a tight schedule.
For children under 3 and disabled guests, entry is free.
Shows & Exhibits:
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is home to thousands of aquatic animals and boasts over 140 species. The massive tank with its captivating 10-million liter aquarium and a 48-meter-long tunnel offers visitors a fascinating walk-through experience. You get to see various species of sharks, rays, and other marine animals up close.
One of the highlights is the feeding show, where you can watch divers feed the sharks and rays at specific times of the day. The aquarium also organizes interactive presentations to educate visitors about the habits and habitats of the marine life on display.
At the Underwater Zoo, you can meet playful otters, piranhas, penguins, and a massive 750 kg crocodile named 'King Croc' and his female companion, 'Queen Croc'. If you're feeling more adventurous, you could even try the cage snorkeling and shark diving experiences.
Additionally, the Behind the Scenes Tour and the Submersible Simulator provide insights into the day-to-day life of the animals and the care routines, contributing to a learning-filled visit for both adults and children.
Final Thoughts:
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is truly a mesmerizing place that offers a peek into the intriguing underwater world. It's an educational, entertaining, and enchanting experience that you shouldn't miss while visiting Dubai.
Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple seeking a unique date experience, or a family with kids, this destination caters to all. For an even more unforgettable experience, I'd recommend combining your visit with the adjacent VR Park and the Dubai Mall's many other attractions.
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