Abu Dhabi has a well-established aquarium retail scene serving everyone from first-time hobbyists to experienced aquascapers and commercial clients. Whether you are planning a compact freshwater tank or a full marine or reef system, choosing the right aquarium shop plays a key role in livestock health, long-term maintenance, and overall success.
Below is a curated overview of reputable aquarium shops in Abu Dhabi, selected based on range, accessibility, and service capability.
- Aquarist Hub
- Aquarium Lives Centres
- Al Mushrif Aquarium Fish Trading
- PetCare
- Other noteworthy aquarium shops
- How to choose the right aquarium shop
- Shop comparison table
- Estimated costs in Abu Dhabi
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
1. Aquarist Hub
Aquarist Hub is one of the best aquarium shop Abu Dhabi, and although a new but fast-growing aquarium retailer with a strong reputation among hobbyists who prefer a modern, organised shopping experience. While it started on a smaller scale, the store has built credibility through consistent stock quality, competitive pricing, and reliable delivery services.
The shop offers live fish and plants, aquarium tanks, filters, lighting systems, accessories, and ongoing maintenance support. Its wide brand range and active online presence make it particularly convenient for customers who prefer browsing and ordering digitally before visiting in person.
Location
It’s located in Shop No 6 – Building No 8 – Al Hosn – W4 – Abu Dhabi
Contact Information
Phone: 058 522 7444
2. Aquarium Lives
Founded in Abu Dhabi in 2000 under the SM Bros Group, Aquarium Lives has grown into one of the UAE’s largest aquarium and pet retail networks, now operating around 28 stores nationwide under the PetCare brand.
In Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, these centres are known for their depth of experience and broad offering. They supply live freshwater and marine fish, corals, tanks, tools, accessories, and provide customer consultations for both residential and commercial projects. One of their strongest advantages is custom aquarium design and installation, making them a reliable option for villas, offices, restaurants, and retail spaces.
Location
It’s located on the ground floor of the Bin Butti Building, Al Khalidiyah
Contact Information
Phone: 056 533 0264
3. Al Mushrif Aquarium Fish Trading
Al Mushrif Aquarium Fish Trading is valued for its convenience, particularly due to its presence inside major shopping malls. With branches in Mushrif Mall (Al Zafranah) and Deerfields Mall (Al Bahya), it allows customers to browse equipment and supplies in person without travelling to industrial areas.
The shop focuses on aquarium supplies, fish trading, and standard equipment, with long opening hours that suit casual visits. While it does not heavily promote large-scale custom setup services, it remains a practical option for routine purchases and replacements.
Locations
- Mushrif mall, basement – Al Mushrif – Zone 1
- Al Shahama – Abu Dhabi Rd – Al Bahyah – Al Bahyah Old
Contact Information
- Mushrif Branch: +971566727748
- Al Shahama Branch: +971569244534
4. PetCare
PetCare is one of Abu Dhabi’s most established pet retail networks and remains a reliable option for aquarium owners seeking both products and ongoing support. Across branches such as Mazyad Mall, Al Wahda Mall, and Mushrif Mall, PetCare offers freshwater and marine fish, corals, tanks, filtration systems, lighting, and everyday aquarium accessories.
Locations
- Al Wahda Mall – Hazza ‘ Bin Zayed The First St – beside Lulu Hypermarket – Al Nahyan
- Mushrif Mall – 207 Ad Dhafrah St – Al Mushrif – Zone 1
- Y Tower – E25 Street
- Mazyad Mall – 28th St – Musaffah
Contact Information
Phone: 054 309 9047
Other noteworthy aquarium shops in Abu Dhabi
Beyond the main names, several smaller or more specialised stores serve local neighbourhoods and hobbyists looking for basic setups or specific supplies.
Aqua Mart Aquariums Trading
Located in Mussafah, Aqua Mart focuses on aquarium equipment and supplies and is often visited by DIY hobbyists who prefer sourcing components individually rather than buying bundled setups.
Al Hud Hud Beauty Fishes
Based in the Baniyas area, this shop concentrates on aquarium fish and accessories, serving nearby residential communities.
The National Aquarium LLC
Operating from Workers Village in Mussafah, this branch focuses on aquarium-related products and is typically accessed through local listings rather than walk-in retail traffic.
Bubbles Aquarium Fish Trading
Situated in the western part of the city, Bubbles Aquarium Fish Trading caters to hobbyists seeking fish and basic setup supplies at accessible price points.
How to choose the right aquarium shop in Abu Dhabi
Choosing the right store depends less on size and more on how well it matches your needs.
Product range vs speciality
If you are planning a marine or reef system or looking for rarer species, specialist stores such as Aquarium Lives are better equipped. For general supplies, filters, lighting, and everyday equipment, full-line stores like Aquarist Hub or Al Mushrif are often sufficient.
Livestock quality and sustainability
Always inspect fish health closely. Clear eyes, active swimming, and clean tanks are good indicators. For marine setups, ask about ethical sourcing and coral protection practices.
After-sales and maintenance support
If you are new to aquariums, setup and maintenance services can make a significant difference. Larger operators such as Aquarium Lives and Aquarist Hub offer ongoing support, while smaller shops may guide without formal service contracts.
Aquarium Shops in Abu Dhabi comparison table
| Shop name | Live fish & plants | Accessories & tanks | Convenient location | Custom setup & maintenance |
| Aquarist Hub | ✔ | ✔ | Central Khalidiya + others | ✔ |
| PetCare / Aquarium Lives | ✔ | ✔ | Multiple branches (AD & Al Ain) | ✔ |
| Al Mushrif Aquarium Fish Trading | ✔ | ✔ | Mall-based | Limited |
| Aqua Mart | ✓ | ✔ | Mussafah | Not a service focus |
Estimated costs for aquarium products and services in Abu Dhabi
| Product/service | Typical price range (AED) |
| Small freshwater fish (per fish) | 10–30 |
| Beginner aquarium setup (45–60 L) | 500–1,500 |
| Premium marine or reef setup | 2,000–5,000+ |
| Accessories (filters, lights, décor) | 50–1,200 |
Prices vary based on species, tank size, equipment quality, and whether installation services are included.
Key takeaways
Aquarist Hub, PetCare, and Aquarium Lives stand out as the most comprehensive aquarium retailers in Abu Dhabi, offering wide product ranges and support services. Mall-based shops like Al Mushrif provide convenience for routine purchases, while specialist stores remain the best option for rare species, marine systems, and custom installations. Careful inspection of livestock quality and clarity on after-sales support can significantly improve long-term aquarium success.
FAQs
Specialist retailers such as Aquarium Lives are generally the strongest option, as they stock reef-safe equipment and marine livestock and offer setup expertise.
Most established shops maintain good standards, but quality can vary by shipment. Always inspect livestock before purchasing.
Yes. Aquarium Lives and Aquarist Hub provide design, setup, and maintenance services. Smaller stores may offer advice without formal installation.
Costs range from a few hundred dirhams for basic freshwater setups to several thousand for marine or reef systems, depending on size and equipment.
Many larger retailers do. Always confirm fees, timelines, and warranty terms with the specific branch.
