Park & nature

The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi

5 · 1,679 reviews·A top pick in Abu Dhabi Travelers Choice
The National Aquarium Abu DhabiPhoto via TripAdvisor (Management)
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The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi is the largest aquarium in the Middle East, a vast, immersive marine attraction that takes visitors on a journey through ten distinct ecosystems, from rivers and rainforests to coral reefs, the deep ocean, and even a frozen polar zone. Home to tens of thousands of animals across thousands of species, its highlights include a dramatic walk-through ocean tunnel where sharks and rays glide overhead, encounters with playful penguins, and 'King Croc,' one of the largest crocodiles in captivity. Beyond the tanks, it offers interactive experiences and educational programmes, with a strong focus on conservation and marine awareness.

Located at Al Qana on the Abu Dhabi waterfront, it's a superb all-weather, family-friendly attraction, perfect for escaping the heat. Allow a couple of hours, more if you add special experiences (some bookable separately). Book tickets online to save and secure entry, especially on weekends and holidays.

Don't miss

  • The largest aquarium in the Middle East
  • Ten themed ecosystems, from reef to polar
  • A walk-through ocean tunnel with sharks and rays
  • Penguins and 'King Croc'
  • Interactive, conservation-focused experiences

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi

You can visit on your own (paid timed entry; book online to save (special experiences extra)). A tour adds transport and a guide, or combines nearby sights into one day.

Good for

BusinessCouplesSolo travelFamilyFriends getaway

How travelers rate it

5 star
1,595
4 star
70
3 star
8
2 star
5
1 star
1

Know before you go

  • It's the largest aquarium in the Middle East, allow a couple of hours.
  • Don't miss the ocean tunnel, penguins, and 'King Croc.'
  • A great all-weather, family escape from the heat.
  • Book online to save and secure timed entry, especially on weekends.

A bit of history

Opened in 2021 at the Al Qana waterfront development, The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi was created as the largest aquarium in the Middle East, designed around immersive, themed ecosystems and a strong conservation and education mission.

Common questions

What is The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi?

The largest aquarium in the Middle East, at Al Qana on the Abu Dhabi waterfront, an immersive journey through ten ecosystems with tens of thousands of marine animals.

What are the highlights?

A walk-through ocean tunnel with sharks and rays, penguins, and 'King Croc,' one of the largest crocodiles in captivity, plus interactive experiences.

Is it good for a hot day?

Yes, it's fully indoors and air-conditioned, making it an ideal all-weather, family-friendly escape from the heat.

Should I book ahead?

Yes, book timed tickets online to save and secure entry, especially on weekends and holidays.

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