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Abu Dhabi welcomes the largest aquarium in the Middle East, The National Aquarium

Abu Dhabi welcomes the largest aquarium in the Middle East, The National Aquarium

The National Aquarium opens this weekend at Al Qana, Abu Dhabi and is set to take its place among the worlds best.

UAE, Abu Dhabi; 09 November 2021: The National Aquarium, Abu Dhabi’s much anticipated landmark, will open this Friday, 12th of November at 10am. Located within the Rabdan Area, the National Aquarium is one of the 11 anchors found within Al Qana, one of Abu Dhabi’s most iconic touristic and lifestyle destinations. With innovations including video mapping technology and signage guides on your personal device, this attraction is expected to quickly take its place among the worlds best aquariums. Iconic species include the world-famous Super Snake, believed to be the longest reptile on display in the world, along with a large school of Hammerhead sharks and many other hero creatures. The facility includes over 60 exhibits across 10 zones and it is expected to take an average of 2 hours to complete the journey.

Paul Hamilton, General Manager at The National Aquarium says, “We are absolutely delighted to be opening our doors to the public this November 12th, and be able to showcase our gigantic and diverse array of animals and animal-related activities to visitors from around the world. The Emirates has a unique relationship with the Arabian Gulf, and it is our mission to honor this connection by incorporating the UAE’s history into the project. The National Aquarium has been years in the making and we are especially excited to be opening in the same year as the UAE’s 50th Anniversary.”

In addition to its spectacular biodiversity, The National Aquarium boasts an array of unforgettable experiences. Visitors will be able to fully immerse themselves during their visits, with glass bottom dhow tours and personal animal encounters with sharks, puffins and a variety of other fascinating species. Scuba diving with one of the most diverse collections of sharks and rays on earth is also available.

In July 2020, the National Aquarium signed a five-year partnership with The Environment Agency – Abu Dhabi (EAD), to create the largest and most innovative rehabilitation program of its kind to protect and rehabilitate wildlife in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.

Paul Hamilton continues; “Education, rescue, and rehabilitation are guiding priorities for The National Aquarium. Our entire facility has been designed to provide both children and adults with world-class interactive learning opportunities, to spotlight the vital role our marine environment plays on the wellbeing of all. With the 2020 whale shark rescues and over 250 Sea Turtles already rehabilitated and released back into the Arabian Gulf, The National Aquarium is already holding up its promise to contribute to conservation in the Emirate.

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Experience Abu Dhabi Shuttle Bus

Visitors can easily reach Al Qana through the free “Experience Abu Dhabi Shuttle Bus” service, which connects Abu Dhabi’s main attractions and hotels.

General Info
  • Free of charge
  • Free Wifi
  • No pre-booking is required
  • Departures every hour
  • Every day from 10:25 AM to 6:20 PM
  • Pickup & drop off : In front of The National Aquarium

Grand Beirut Breakfast Tray

Start your day the Lebanese way with Grand Beirut’s Breakfast Tray, served daily from 9 AM to 12 PM and perfect for sharing with a minimum of two guests. Enjoy a generous spread of authentic breakfast favorites for AED 55 per person, or elevate your morning with the flavor-inclusive option for AED 95 per person, turning every breakfast into a relaxed, delicious moment worth waking up for.

Your Ultimate April Adventure Destination

Enjoy non-stop fun this April at Adrenark Adventure with karting and exciting attractions. For AED 199, enjoy unlimited adventure Monday to Thursday—perfect for a midweek thrill with friends or family. Offer valid until 17 April 2026.

%ARABICA Açaí Cup

Enjoy your favorite açaí, the % Arabica way. Crafted with layers of fresh berries, banana, and crunchy granola, it’s a refreshing, feel-good treat made to fuel your day.

Served in a signature cup, perfect to take with you wherever you go.

JUNIOR MARINE BIOLOGIST

Kids from 5-15 now can engage in an exciting after-school activity in which they will step into the role of being a Marine Biologist at The National Aquarium.

Dates: Monday to Friday

Duration: 3 Hours

SHARK DIVE FOR CERTIFIED DIVERS AED 550

Dr. Nutrition Ramadan Special

This Ramadan, Dr. Nutrition presents an exclusive offer for only AED 747, combining two weight control products with a 2-month follow-up program with a professional nutritionist. Designed to help you stay on track during the holy month, this package provides personalized guidance and the right supplements to support your wellness and weight management goals, making it easier to enjoy Ramadan while prioritizing your health.

Otoro Business Lunch

Experience the newest 3-course offering from 12pm to 5pm at an exclusive price of AED 125, where a gastronomic experience awaits. Indulge in the excellence of Otoro, honored with the Michelin Bib Gourmand 2024 for the second consecutive time. Whether you’re reuniting with friends during this festive season or aiming to leave a lasting impression on your business partners, this offer is perfect for you. Don’t miss out and make your reservation by calling 02 886 9995.

DIVING EXPERIENCE

A certified diver or a first-timer, we have it all taken care for you. Discover and experience the extraordinary underwater world with a variety of marine species in the largest aquarium in the Middle East!

SHARK DIVE FOR CERTIFIED DIVERS AED 550

DISCOVER SCUBA DIVING FOR NON CERTIFIED DIVERS AED 950

Al Ain, Abu Dhabi - Al Qana

(60 Mins)

01

Take Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Road (E22) towards Abu Dhabi City.

02

Take Exit to Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street (E20) toward Mussafah Bridge

03

Take Exit to Rabdan Area and follow street signs towards Al Qana

Dubai - Al Qana

(75 Mins)

01

Take Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) and head towards Abu Dhabi

02

Take the Exit toward Abu Dhabi-Al Ain Road (E22) toward Mussafah

03

Take Exit to Rabdan Area and follow street signs towards Al Qana

Abu Dhabi Corniche - Al Qana

(9 Mins)

01

Take Sheikh Zayed Road (E10) and head towards Mussafah.

02

Take the Exit toward Mussafah / Airport / Mussafah Bridge and keep left toward Al Khaleej Al Arab St(E20)

03

Take Exit to Rabdan Area and follow street signs towards Al Qana

Abu Dhabi Airport - Al Qana

(9 Mins)

01

Stay on Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street
(E20) for 14KM.

02

Take Exit to Rabdan Area
and follow street signs towards Al Qana