The Scientific Center

The Scientific Center in Kuwait City is a sprawling educational and entertainment complex located on Arabian Gulf Street in Ras Salmiya. It features one of the largest aquariums in the Middle East, showcasing marine life from the Arabian Gulf, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Visitors can walk through a transparent tunnel surrounded by fish and coral reefs. The center also includes an IMAX theater showing nature documentaries and a Discovery Museum with hands-on exhibits for children. The building's architecture is modern and inviting, with a large outdoor area featuring a dhow (traditional boat) and a gift shop. It's a popular destination for families and school groups, offering a mix of learning and fun in a clean, well-maintained environment.

Don't miss

• Walk through the aquarium's underwater tunnel for close-up views of sharks and rays.
• Watch a film at the IMAX theater on a massive dome screen.
• Explore the hands-on exhibits at the Discovery Museum, perfect for kids.
• See the outdoor dhow exhibit, a replica of a traditional Kuwaiti sailing vessel.
• Visit the gift shop for unique marine-themed souvenirs.

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit The Scientific Center

Cheapest way inHouston Museum of Natural Science and Cockrell Butterfly Center4.4★ · 110 travelers3–4 hoursFree cancellationFrom$36 per personSee dates →Most bookedHalf Day licensed Tours in Kuwait City & Desert PickUp & DropOff4.5★ · 174 travelers4–5 hoursFree cancellationFrom$95 per personSee dates →Private & flexibleFull Day licensed Tours in Kuwait City & Desert PickUp & DropOff4.5★ · 65 travelers7–8 hoursFree cancellationFrom$170 per personSee dates →

Good for

How travelers rate it

Know before you go

• Allow at least 2 hours; the IMAX show adds 45 minutes.
• Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited in the aquarium.
• The Discovery Museum is best for children aged 3-12.
• A café is on-site for snacks and drinks.

A bit of history

Opened in 2000 under the patronage of the late Emir Sheikh Jaber Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, The Scientific Center was established by the Kuwait Foundation for the Advancement of Sciences to promote science education and environmental awareness.