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Sharjah Aquarium is a must-visit attraction in the UAE, offering an immersive journey into the underwater world of the Arabian Gulf. Opened in 2008, this state-of-the-art aquarium showcases over 150 marine species. Spanning 6,500 square metres, it features 20 aquariums replicating diverse aquatic habitats. The aquarium also plays a vital role in marine conservation and education. Whether you’re a marine enthusiast or a family looking for an exciting adventure, Sharjah Aquarium promises a memorable experience.
Quick Details
Opening Date: 16th June 2008
Location: Al Khan Old Area, Sharjah, UAE
Area: 6,500 square metres
Ticket Price: AED 25 / ₹ 590 for adults; AED 15 / ₹ 355 for children of 2 – 12 years; Free for children under 2
Sharjah Aquarium Timings: Saturday – Thursday: 8 AM – 8 PM; Friday: 4 PM 8 PM
Notable Attractions: Shark feeding sessions, touch pools, snorkelling experiences
Wildlife: Over 150 species, including sharks, rays, eels, and reef fish
Location
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
Sharjah Aquarium is located in the Al Khan Old Area, a coastal district of Sharjah known for its maritime heritage. Situated near the Arabian Gulf, the aquarium offers stunning waterfront views and easy access to the Sharjah Maritime Museum. Just a short drive from Dubai, it is an ideal destination for a day trip. The surrounding area features family-friendly attractions, hotels, and restaurants, making it a perfect spot to explore marine life.
How To Reach
Photo: Kgbo / Wikimedia Commons
You can reach Sharjah Aquarium by air or road, with nearby airports, highways, public buses, and taxis offering convenient travel options:
By Air: Fly into Dubai International Airport, which is approximately a 20 minute drive from Sharjah Aquarium. Alternatively, Sharjah International Airport is about a 25 minute drive away.
By Road: From Dubai, take the E11 highway towards Sharjah and follow signs to Al Khan. Public buses and taxis are readily available for convenient access.
Things To Do At Sharjah Aquarium
You can enjoy a variety of activities at Sharjah Aquarium, offering fascinating experiences for visitors of all ages to explore:
1. Go For A Snorkelling Adventure
Photo: Richard Segal / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Sharjah Aquarium offers an exciting snorkelling experience, allowing visitors to get up close with marine life in a safe, controlled environment. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced snorkeller, the guided sessions provide a unique opportunity to explore underwater ecosystems. Equipped with professional gear, participants can swim alongside reef fish, rays, and small sharks. The trained staff ensures safety and shares educational insights about marine species and conservation efforts.
2. Experience Real-Life Touch At Touch Pools
Photo: Joe Mabel / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
The touch pools at Sharjah Aquarium offer a hands-on experience, allowing visitors to interact with fascinating marine creatures such as starfish, sea cucumbers, and small crabs. These interactive pools are designed to educate guests about marine biodiversity while providing a fun and engaging activity, especially for children. Visitors can feel the textures of these sea creatures and learn about their natural habitats.
3. Witness The Fish Feeding Shows
Photo: Tomwsulcer / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
One of the highlights of Sharjah Aquarium is the fish-feeding shows, where visitors can watch divers feed various marine species, including sharks, stingrays, and exotic fish. The aquarium schedules feeding shows at different times daily, giving visitors a fantastic opportunity to learn about the diet and survival strategies of underwater creatures. Children and adults alike will enjoy the spectacle of schools of fish swarming towards the divers, making it a must-see attraction for families visiting the aquarium.t
Must-Visit Attractions Near Sharjah Aquarium
Once you have explored the Sharjah Aquarium, you can visit the following famous attractions nearby:
1. Dubai Museum
Photo: Lyonerov / Wikimedia Commons
Dubai Museum, located in Al Fahidi Fort, is one of the UAE’s most significant historical sites, offering an immersive journey into Dubai’s past. The museum features exhibits on ancient artefacts, pearl diving, and the evolution of Dubai from a fishing village to a global city. Interactive displays and life-sized dioramas showcase traditional Emirati life, trade, and culture. A visit here enhances your understanding of the UAE’s transformation over the centuries.
Address: Al Fahidi Fort, Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai, Dubai, UAE.
Entry Fee: AED 3 / ₹ 71 for adults; AED 1 / ₹ 24 for children under 6
Timings: Saturday – Thursday: 8:30 AM – 8:30 PM; Friday: 2:30 PM – 8:30 PM
2. Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest skyscraper, is an architectural marvel located in Downtown Dubai. Visitors can take an elevator to the 124th or 148th floor for panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline. The observation decks provide a breathtaking view of the city, especially at sunset. The Burj Khalifa also houses high-end restaurants, luxury lounges, and interactive exhibits detailing its construction.
Address: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, UAE
Entry Fee: Prices vary depending on the level and time of visit, starting from AED 149 / ₹ 3,538 for levels 124 and 125
Timings: 8:30 AM – 11 PM
3. Dubai Creek
Photo: Phil6007 / Wikimedia Commons
Dubai Creek is a historic waterway that played a key role in Dubai’s early trade and commerce. Visitors can take a traditional Abra ride, explore the gold and spice souks, and stroll through the heritage district of Al Seef. Cultural landmarks, busy markets, and waterfront restaurants line the creek, offering a blend of old and new Dubai.
Address: Runs through the heart of Dubai, dividing Deira and Bur Dubai
Entry Fee: Access to the creek is free; Abra rides cost around AED 1 / ₹ 24
Timings: Open 24 hours; Abra services typically operate from 5 AM – midnight
Where To Stay
Photo: Curtis Adams / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Sharjah offers a range of accommodations suitable for all budgets. For a luxurious stay, Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort & Spa provides a beachfront experience with top-notch amenities. Copthorne Hotel Sharjah is a mid-range option, offering comfort and convenience near major attractions. Budget travellers can opt for Citymax Hotel Sharjah, which offers affordable lodging with easy access to the city’s highlights. Staying in Sharjah is a cost-effective alternative to Dubai, while still providing excellent connectivity to tourist hotspots.
Where To Eat
Photo: Manuel Mouzo / Pexels / Image For Representation Only
Sharjah’s dining scene includes everything from local Emirati cuisine to international delicacies. Al Qubtan, located along the waterfront, serves delicious Middle Eastern dishes. Paper Fig Desserts is a popular spot for artisanal pastries and speciality coffee. For a mix of European and Arabic flavours, Shakespeare and Co. offers a cosy ambience and an extensive menu. Whether you’re craving traditional Emirati dishes or international cuisine, Sharjah provides a diverse culinary experience to suit all tastes.
Best Time To Visit
Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
The best time to visit Sharjah Aquarium is between October and April, when the weather is mild, making it ideal for exploring nearby attractions. During summer, temperatures rise above 40°C, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. However, because Sharjah Aquarium is an indoor attraction, you can visit it year-round, regardless of the weather. To avoid crowds, weekdays and early mornings are the best times for a peaceful visit.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: Precondo / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
- Check Sharjah Aquarium timings before your visit to plan accordingly.
- Dress modestly, as Sharjah follows conservative cultural norms.
- Use taxis or public transport for hassle-free travel.
- Visit during weekdays or early mornings to avoid large crowds.
Sharjah Aquarium is a must-visit attraction for marine enthusiasts, families, and travellers looking to explore the underwater world of the Arabian Gulf. From interactive touch pools and fish feeding shows to snorkelling adventures, the aquarium offers an engaging and educational experience for all ages. Plan your visit now, with TripXL’s travel packages for a seamless and enjoyable trip.
Cover Photo: Jaseem Hamza / Wikimedia Commons
