National Aquarium Abu Dhabi | The Largest Aquarium in the Middle East
π National Aquarium Abu Dhabi β Discover the Wonders of the Underwater World
National Aquarium Abu Dhabi invites visitors to a fascinating underwater world as the largest aquarium in the Middle East. Home to over 46,000 marine creatures of more than 300 different species, this giant aquarium offers a unique opportunity to explore marine life from the region and around the globe.
In 10 different themed marine sections, you embark on a rich exploration journey, ranging from the natural underwater treasures of the UAE to sunken ships, from Atlantic caves to colorful coral reefs. You will encounter sharks and rays and get to know rare and exotic species that you may have never seen before.
National Aquarium Abu Dhabi not only showcases marine creatures but also provides visitors with interactive and immersive experiences. You can view the underwater world from a different angle with a glass-bottomed dhow boat tour and participate in special encounters with sharks, puffins, and freshwater rays (for an additional fee and subject to availability).
With innovative video mapping technologies and informative panels, you will learn how vital marine ecosystems are for human life. Whether you are a marine life enthusiast or planning an educational and enjoyable trip with your family, National Aquarium Abu Dhabi is a must-visit destination. Discover the magic of the underwater world and create memories that will last a lifetime.
National Aquarium Abu Dhabi β Tour Program & Visit Flow
π National Aquarium Abu Dhabi β Program & Visit Flow
Pick-Up from Hotel (If Transfer Package is Selected)
- Pick-up from your hotel in a comfortable vehicle at the designated time
- Transfer to Abu Dhabi (travel time from Dubai may vary depending on the area)
Arrival & Entry
- Ticket check at the entrance of National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
- Entry via digital ticket / QR code scan
Aquarium Exploration β 10 Thematic Areas
- Visit 10 different thematic areas in the largest aquarium in the Middle East
- Coral reefs, sunken ships, Atlantic caves, and UAE's natural underwater life
- Observe sharks, rays, and exotic species up close
Interactive Experiences (Optional)
- Glass-bottom dhow boat tour
- One-on-one animal encounter experiences (shark, puffin, freshwater ray, etc.)
Note: These experiences are subject to additional fees and availability.
Educational Areas & Multimedia Presentations
- Informative content about marine ecosystems through video mapping technologies
- Interactive learning areas for children and families
Free Time & Photography
- Opportunities for photography/video during the visit
- Free time for shopping in the gift shop and in the cafΓ© areas
Return
- If a transfer package is selected, return to the hotel after the visit
- In non-transfer packages, individual departure after free time
Total Visit Duration:
β±οΈ Average 1.5 β 2.5 hours (may vary depending on interest and intensity)
What's Included
β Inclusions β National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
- National Aquarium Abu Dhabi entrance ticket
- Access to 10 thematic zones in the largest aquarium in the Middle East
- Opportunity to see over 46,000 sea creatures and 300+ species up close
- Observation of sharks, rays, coral reefs, and exotic species
- Educational exhibits, multimedia presentations, and informative panels
- Access to the general visitor areas within the aquarium
Note: Glass-bottomed dhow boat tour and animal encounter experiences (sharks, puffins, freshwater rays, etc.) are not included in this package and may be offered at an additional cost.
Not Included
β Exclusions β National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
- Hotel transfers / transportation (unless a transfer package is selected)
- Food and beverages (cafes/restaurants within the facility are subject to extra charges)
- Glass-bottom dhow boat tour (available at an extra cost)
- Animal encounter experiences (such as shark, puffin, freshwater stingray, etc. β available at an extra cost)
- Professional photo/video services (if available, at an extra cost)
- Personal expenses and souvenir shopping
π Important Things to Know β National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
- The average visiting time is 1.5 β 2.5 hours and may vary depending on interest and crowd.
- Entry is granted by scanning digital tickets / QR codes; printing is not necessary.
- There may be a short wait during busy hours; to have a more peaceful experience, visiting during weekday daytime hours is recommended.
- Photography and video are allowed; flash use may be restricted in some areas.
- Interactive and special experiences are subject to availability and may require advance reservation.
- Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended as walking is done within the area.
- Wheelchair and stroller access is largely available.
- Suitable for children; there may be age/height restrictions for some special activities.
- Cancellation and refund policies are subject to the ticket terms specified at the time of purchase.
π What to Bring? β National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
- Digital ticket / QR code (sufficient on your phone)
- Phone or camera (to capture underwater views)
- Comfortable shoes and clothing (as there will be walking inside the aquarium)
- Powerbank / backup charger (if planning to shoot for a long time)
- A small bag (for personal belongings)
- Credit card or cash (for cafe and souvenir purchases)
Note: Flash use may be restricted in some areas. Please adhere to the facility rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a visit last?
The average visit duration is 1.5 β 2.5 hours, and can be extended depending on the chosen experiences.
What is included in the tickets?
The general admission ticket includes Aquarium Journey (aquarium exploration tour). Packages like All Access Pass include extra experiences such as the glass bridge walk, behind-the-scenes tour, and glass-bottom boat tour.
Is it suitable for children?
Yes. The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi is suitable for families and children. There may be age restrictions for some special experiences.
Is photography and video shooting allowed?
Yes. During the visit, photography and video shooting are allowed. Flash use may be restricted in some areas.
Is there accessible access for the disabled?
Yes. A large part of the facility is suitable for wheelchair accessibility. However, there may be additional restrictions for some special activities (e.g. boat tours).
Is hotel transfer included?
No. Hotel transfer is not included in standard tickets. Transfer packages may be offered separately.
Are the tickets open-dated?
Some tickets are open-dated, while others are date-specific Please check the validity conditions of the ticket you purchased.
When are the busy hours?
Weekends and evening hours are busier. For a more relaxed visit, weekday daytime hours are recommended.
Can tickets be canceled and refunded?
Cancellation and refund conditions are applied according to the ticket terms specified at the time of purchase. Most tickets are non-refundable.