The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
Discover a world of marine wonders at The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, home to thousands of creatures and a sanctuary for marine life conservation.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed viewing
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a world of marine wonders at The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi, home to thousands of creatures and a sanctuary for marine life conservation.
"An unforgettable experience at The National Aquarium! Breathtaking variety of marine life and friendly, knowledgeable staff."
🎯 General Admission is Key
Focus on general admission; extra activities might not be worth the cost. :ticket:
✨ Use Discount Codes
Look for exclusive discount codes like 'INSECT20' for Behind the Glass tickets. :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Endless Vista
Main Aquarium Tank
A colossal 20-meter tall vertical window offering a breathtaking, multi-level view of sharks, rays, and countless fish.
Underwater Tunnel Walk
Main Aquarium Tunnel
Walk through a mesmerizing tunnel surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and a vibrant array of marine life.
Submersible Experience
Main Aquarium Tank
Experience the thrill of being inside the world's first submersible in an aquarium, surrounded by millions of liters of water.
Free-Flying Bird Room
Aviary Exhibit
Step into a magical room where birds fly freely, creating an immersive natural environment.
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
+1Consider Your Visit Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 General Admission is Key
Focus on general admission; extra activities might not be worth the cost. :ticket:
✨ Use Discount Codes
Look for exclusive discount codes like 'INSECT20' for Behind the Glass tickets.
🚶♀️ Smooth Crowd Flow
The aquarium is well-organized, making crowd flow easy even during busy times. :walking:
🐠 Educational & Immersive
Exhibits are thoughtfully designed with clear educational info for all ages. :bulb:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 General Admission is Key
Focus on general admission; extra activities might not be worth the cost. :ticket:
✨ Use Discount Codes
Look for exclusive discount codes like 'INSECT20' for Behind the Glass tickets.
🚶♀️ Smooth Crowd Flow
The aquarium is well-organized, making crowd flow easy even during busy times. :walking:
🐠 Educational & Immersive
Exhibits are thoughtfully designed with clear educational info for all ages. :bulb:
🐢 Conservation Focus
Appreciate their rescue and rehabilitation efforts for marine animals. :ocean:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi for its impressive variety of marine life, immersive exhibits, and commitment to conservation. Many highlight the educational value and the well-organized layout, making it a great experience for families and individuals alike. While some find extra activities costly, the general admission offers a captivating journey through the underwater world.
"I had an amazing experience at the National Aquarium of Abu Dhabi! The tour was absolutely perfect, and I couldn't have asked for a better experience. It was clear he was passionate about the exhibits, which made the whole experience more memorable. I highly recommend visiting this wonderful place for anyone looking to explore marine life and learn something new. A truly unforgettable experience! I was visited 2 times there."
Rohan Krishantha
"I think this place is a very fun place, especially if you like fish, animal, or nature. Besides the fish and other animals that lives in the water, they also have frogs, birds, snakes, otter, duck, insects, penguin, and many more. My favourite spot is where they have the birds fly freely in one of the room, it's magical and feels like we're actually in the real nature. -June 2025"
Guntur Indra R.
"Amazing experience for all the family. One of the best attractions in Abudhabi where you can relax and enjoy your time. huge number of creatures . Amazing colors and decorations . And the best part it’s not only a commercial aquarium. It’s a hospital to heal these animals and to keep them safe. They are doing a big effort to rescue sea turtles and other rare species. Really amazing experience. Recommend. Thanks to Rukshani in the animal encounter she was so kind and helpful."
Reem Muhandes
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi is located at Al Qana. You can reach it by taxi or ride-sharing services, which are readily available in Abu Dhabi. If you're driving, there is parking available at Al Qana. Public transport options might involve multiple bus routes, so checking a local transit app for the most up-to-date information is recommended.
While SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is on Yas Island, The National Aquarium is located at Al Qana, a waterfront district in Abu Dhabi. They are distinct attractions. +1
The most convenient way to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is by bus or by private car/taxi. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Once in Abu Dhabi, you can take a local taxi or ride-share to Al Qana.
Yes, Al Qana is a modern waterfront destination designed for visitors, with good accessibility via roads and ample parking facilities.
Absolutely! Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are widely used in Abu Dhabi and are a convenient way to get to and from The National Aquarium.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices can vary, and it's best to check the official website for the most current pricing. Look out for special offers or packages that might include behind-the-scenes tours or other experiences. Using discount codes like 'INSECT20' can offer savings on 'Behind the Glass' tickets. +1
Booking tickets in advance online is highly recommended to save time and potentially secure better rates. It also guarantees your entry, especially during peak times.
Yes, besides general admission, there are often options for 'Behind the Glass' experiences, which offer a more in-depth look at the aquarium's operations and animal care.
Yes, The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi accepts Fazaa, which may offer discounts or special rates for eligible members.
Opening hours can vary, so it's advisable to check the official website for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Generally, they are open daily.
🎫 🐠 Onsite Experience
Don't miss the 'Endless Vista' for its massive underwater view, the immersive tunnel walk surrounded by marine life, and the unique submersible experience. The free-flying bird room is also a magical highlight.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic family-friendly attraction with a wide variety of animals, educational exhibits, and engaging experiences for all ages. The free-flying bird room is particularly magical for kids.
You can see a vast array of marine life including sharks, rays, and countless fish. Beyond aquatic creatures, they also house frogs, birds, snakes, otters, penguins, and insects.
Yes, they offer unique experiences like the submersible ride and the 'Behind the Glass' tours. The aquarium also emphasizes its conservation and rehabilitation efforts.
A general admission visit can take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on your pace and interest. If you opt for additional experiences, you might need more time.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'Endless Vista' and the underwater tunnel offer incredible photo opportunities with sharks and rays. The free-flying bird room also provides unique shots.
Yes, cameras and phones are generally allowed for personal use. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas to protect the animals.
Photography during the submersible experience is usually permitted, but it's always best to check with the crew on-site for any specific guidelines.
Expect vibrant shots of diverse marine life, colorful coral reefs, and the impressive scale of the aquarium's habitats. The unique exhibits offer opportunities for creative and memorable photos.
While not explicitly advertised as photography tours, the 'Behind the Glass' experiences might offer unique perspectives and access that could be great for photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The educational aspects are presented in an engaging way, making learning fun. Consider booking 'Behind the Glass' tickets if your children are particularly curious about animal care.
+1 The free-flying bird room is a definite highlight for younger visitors, offering a magical, interactive experience. Remember to check for any special family packages or discounts when booking your tickets. 💰 Budget Travelers
+1 Utilizing ride-sharing apps for transport can also be more cost-effective than traditional taxis, especially if traveling in a small group. 💑 Couples
Walking through the illuminated tunnels, surrounded by marine life, offers a magical atmosphere. +1 Consider booking a 'Behind the Glass' experience for a more intimate and educational adventure, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll through the diverse exhibits. +1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Conservation and Rehabilitation Efforts
This commitment is a significant aspect of their mission and sets them apart from purely entertainment-focused aquariums. Visitors can learn about these vital efforts through educational displays and potentially through specific programs or documentaries. The aquarium's work in healing sea turtles and other rare species highlights their dedication to preserving the UAE's marine biodiversity.
Their efforts have even been recognized and documented, with a National Geographic documentary showcasing their conservation work.
Unique Immersive Experiences
Another thrilling option is the underwater walking tour.
For those seeking a different kind of immersion, the free-flying bird room provides a magical escape. Stepping into this habitat feels like entering a natural environment, with birds flying freely around you.
These distinct activities cater to a variety of interests, from the adventurous to those seeking a more serene, nature-connected experience. Comparing Aquariums in the UAE
Furthermore, its strong emphasis on conservation work and its partnership with National Geographic for documentaries highlight its commitment to marine welfare and research.
While SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is also a major attraction, reviews suggest that The National Aquarium provides a more comprehensive and worthwhile experience for many, particularly when considering the overall value and the aquarium's mission.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit