National Aquarium Abu Dhabi: 46,000 Animals & 10 Zones

46,000 Animals Across 10 Zones: Inside the Middle East's Largest Aquarium

You get general admission to walk through 10 themed zones housing 46,000 animals from six continents: tropical waters, freshwater systems, Arctic habitats, Mediterranean caves and more. The aquarium runs daily from 10am to 10pm, sits in a prime location near Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with views across Al Qana waterfront, and includes close-up encounters with over 200 sharks and rays. Tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable once purchased.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi

• Arrive at The National Aquarium
• Begin journey through Arabian Gulf zone
• Observe 46,000 marine creatures
• Visit 10 themed zones
• See sharks and rays species
• Engage with marine biology exhibits
• Enjoy views of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The experience

So yeah, you walk in and it's not what you expect. It's bigger. The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi spans 10 zones that take you from the tropical Pacific straight into the Amazon, then somehow you're standing in front of Arctic ice caps, and then the Mediterranean caves. Forty-six thousand animals. Three hundred species. The scale of it hits differently when you're actually moving through the zones instead of reading about it online. There are over 200 sharks and rays alone, 25 different species, and the team here, 80 sea-life experts, they're the ones keeping all of it running.

The location is kind of perfect if you're already on Abu Dhabi island. It sits right at Al Qana, adjacent to the five-star hotels, so it's not tucked away somewhere you have to plan transport for. Public transportation gets you there, and once you're in, there's no high-rise clutter blocking the view. You get these uninterrupted sightlines across the water to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Memorial Park. It's one of those rare spots in Abu Dhabi where you can actually breathe a little. The aquarium opens at 10am and runs until 10pm daily, so you've got flexibility whether you want to go early or make it an evening thing.

Walking through, you're not just looking at tanks. The whole design is built around getting you close to the animals. That's the point. It's hands-on, meant to make you think like a marine biologist for a few hours. Kids under 12 need an adult with them (someone 16 or older), and children under 3 get in free, so families have options. Just remember: stairs are part of the layout, so you need to be able to move up and down. Dress code is straightforward: top and shoes, nothing that's going to offend anyone. No pets, no smoking, no unnecessary noise. It's a working marine facility, not a playground.

What’s included

• Your visit includes general admission to all 10 zones of the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi.
• You'll have access to exhibits featuring tropical Pacific waters, Amazon freshwaters, Arctic ice caps, Mediterranean caves, and six other themed environments.
• The admission covers close encounters with 46,000 animals including over 200 sharks and rays across 25 species.
• The aquarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Options for this experience

4 options

General AdmissionNo fixed timeThis ticket takes you through our 10-zone journey, where you will discover an entire world of natural treasures. Duration: 2 hours. Highlights: Entrance to Aquarium Journey only

Beyond the GlassNo fixed timeGo behind the scenes and explore our 10-zone journey, then face your fears on our mesmerizing glass bridge walk. Duration: 2 hours. Includes: Aquarium Journey, plus Behind the Scenes Tour and Glass Bridge Walk

Bu Tinah DhowNo fixed timeDiscover our 10-zone journey, then enjoy breathtaking views on our Glass Bottom Boat tour. Duration: 2 hours. Includes: Aquarium Journey and Glass Bottom Boat Tour

All AccessNo fixed timeIncludes Aquarium Journey, Glass Bridge Walk, Behind the Scenes Tour and Glass Bottom Boat Tour. Duration: 3 hours. Tour: Enjoy the "All Access" experience at The National Aquarium!

You'll see the exact price of each option when you check availability.See dates and prices

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day

AgesAdult (3 and older) · Under 3: can't be booked

Audio guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupNo hotel pickup: you go to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.

Cancellation and refundsNo refund if you cancel.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancy

Operated by Odyssey DMC

Is this one for you?Right for anyone wanting to spend a few hours moving through distinct marine habitats without planning multiple stops: the 10 zones keep you moving through different climates and ecosystems in one location, and the fixed daily hours (10am–10pm) mean you can drop in whenever suits your schedule.

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Top questions

What are the opening hours?

The National Aquarium is open daily from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

How many animals are in the aquarium?

The aquarium houses 46,000 animals representing over 300 species across 10 zones.

Can children visit?

Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult aged 16 or older. Children under 3 are free. Kids must be at least 1 year old to participate.

Is there parking or public transport?

Public transportation options are available nearby. The aquarium is located at Al Qana, adjacent to five-star hotels on Abu Dhabi island.

What should I wear?

Guests must wear a top and shoes at all times. Clothing must be appropriate and not cause offense.

Are tickets refundable?

All tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable. They become void if transferred for value.

Can I bring my pet?

Pets and animals of any kind are prohibited inside the aquarium.

Are there stairs to climb?

Yes, guests must be able to ascend and descend stairs to access all areas of the aquarium.