National Aquarium Abu Dhabi – A Magical Underwater Experience

Aquarium Abu Dhabi is one of the newest additions to the capital of the UAE. Since it opened its doors in November 2021 – it has become a magical destination for an underwater adventure. Explore everything about it, such as the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi ticket price and more, in this detailed guide. 

About Aquarium Abu Dhabi

National Aquarium Abu Dhabi

National Aquarium Abu Dhabi is the biggest aquarium in the Middle East. It features more than 330 special sea creatures and more than 46 thousand animals. Also, it is a hub for special experiences, animal encounters, and educational tours for children and adults alike. 

Location

The aquarium is located in Abu Dhabi, more specifically in Al Qana in the Rabdan area. It is within close proximity to many of Abu Dhabi’s neighborhoods and attractions. Making it a great weekend destination. 

Nearby Communities

As we mentioned above, there are various residential communities in Abu Dhabi near this aquarium. So, both families and individuals can enjoy visiting it as it is only a quick drive away. 

  • Khor Al Maqta: 6 minutes away 
  • Al Rawdah: 11 minutes away
  • Hills Abu Dhabi: 13 minutes away
  • Sas Al Nakhl Village: 14 minutes away

Nearby Attractions 

In addition, if you want to make this trip a multi-stop one, then you are in luck. As many of Abu Dhabi’s attractions are also close to the aquarium. Such as: 

  • Zayed Sports City: 8 minutes away
  • Al Khaleej Al Arabi Park: 10 minutes away
  • Khalifa Park: 14 minutes away
  • Abu Dhabi Golf Club – Garden Course: 19 minutes away

Parking 

Al Qana has a wide parking lot for all its surrounding venues, including Aquarium Abu Dhabi. This parking lot has 3000 free spots distributed indoors and outdoors on the north and south sides of these venues. 

Opening Hours 

The timing of Aquarium Abu Dhabi is quite flexible and suitable for all. As you can take your little ones and get them back by their bedtime. The working hours for the aquarium are as follows: 

  • 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (Monday – Sunday) 

Contact Details 

Additionally, if you have any inquiries regarding tickets, shows, or other matters. You can call the aquarium or email them via: 

Abu Dhabi Aquarium Ticket Price

Abu Dhabi Aquarium tickets vary based on the type of experience you desire. The general admission is AED 99. As for the experiences, you will find them in detail below. 

Experiences 

In addition to the standard general admission, there are various experiences guests can enjoy. Explore them in detail with prices and benefits below. 

Aquarium Journey

Aquarium Abu Dhabi Sharks

First, this journey is truly one of a kind. As it includes experiences that will take you to the deep depths of the ocean. It includes: 

  • Beyond the Glass: 
    • Includes: glass bridge walk to explore the 10-zone journey and behind-the-scenes secrets. 
    • Price: AED 126
  • Bu Tinah Dhow
    • Includes an amazing glass-bottom boat tour through the aquarium zones. 
    • Price: AED 144

Animal Encounters

Animal Encounters

Secondly, you can add an extra AED 91 only with general admission to experience up-close interactions with various animals. This experience will have you meet and feed wild and exotic species with experts to tell you all about them. 

  • Jungle Encounter
    • Includes: Swimming with jungle animals wearing special suites 
    • Price: AED 190
  • Arctic Encounter
    • Includes: Meeting and feeding arctic animals 
    • Price: AED 190
  • Ocean Encounter
    • Includes: Meet ocean creatures and hand-feed marine species
    • Price: AED 190
  • Reptile Encounter
    • Includes: Meet amazing Asian lizards, snakes and chameleons
    • Price: AED 190

All Access

This experience includes everything you can experience at the aquarium. Where you will meet animals, experts, behind-the-scenes tours, and much more. Also, there are no entry fees for children under 3. 

  • Includes: 
    • Aquarium Journey
    • Glass Bottom Boat 
    • Boat Tour
    • Glass Bridge Walk
    • Behind the Scenes
  • Price: AED 110

Annual Membership

Glass Bottom boat 

The annual pass is the ultimate package at Abu Dhabi’s National Aquarium. As you can enjoy the 10-zones and all the experience any time year-round. 

  • Includes
    • Aquarium journey
    • Glass bridge walk
    • Behind-the-scenes tour
    • Glass bottom boat tour
    • Pristine seas
  • Price: AED 399

VIP Package

Looking for a celebrity-like experience? Well, this VIP package is exactly that and more. It is for 5 guests to enjoy everything the aquarium has to offer. In short words, you will explore all the zones privately with a designated tour guide. 

  • Includes
    • Meet and greet
    • Private guided tour
    • Aquarium journey
    • Glass bridge walk
    • Behind-the-scenes tour
    • Bu Tinah Dhow (glass bottom boat)
    • Pristine seas
    • Fish feeding
    • Refreshments from La Ballena Café
  • Price: AED 2,500

Zones & Exhibitions 

Aquarium Abu Dhabi

Furthermore, the aquarium is known for its amazing and one-of-a-kind zones like no other all over the MENA region. These zones are:

  • UAE’s Natural Treasures
  • Red Sea Wreck
  • Atlantic Cave
  • The Sub
  • Ring of Fire
  • Ocean Magic
  • Frozen Ocean
  • The Flooded Forest
  • Bu Tinah Island

Additionally, the exhibitions at the aquarium are truly magical. You will dive into the deep ocean to meet exotic creatures up close. This exhibition truly reflects how enchanting Mother Nature is. 

  • Sea Jellies Exhibit
  • Pristine Seas

FAQ

What sea creatures are at the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi exactly? 

There are many sea creatures and other animals at the aquarium, such as: 

  • Sharks
  • Stingrays
  • Fish
  • Corals
  • African Gray Parrot
  • Green Iguana
  • Turtles 
  • Amphibians
  • Mammals
  • Asian Short-Clawed Otter

Are there any hotels near the aquarium? 

Yes, there are a few hotels, such as The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, which is 9 minutes away. There is also Ibis Abu Dhabi Gate, which is 10 minutes away. 

Is there a restaurant at the aquarium? 

Unfortunately, the Aquarium restaurant in Abu Dhabi is currently closed. So, we recommend you pack some light snacks for the journey. 

Is there an event venue at the aquarium? 

There isn’t a specific event venue. However, you can throw any event you like at any of the aquarium’s zones. Simply fill out an online form, and you will be good to go. 

To sum up, there are many amazing venues along with Aquarium Abu Dhabi to visit. Its underwater adventures are memorable for a lifetime. Additionally, make sure to explore Property Finder’s blog for more guides. Such as the Louvre Museum, Aquariums in UAE, and more. 

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