Top Marine Species to Spot at Dubai Mall Aquarium

If you’re planning a fun day out in the heart of the city, the Dubai Mall Aquarium promises a spectacular underwater journey that’s hard to beat. Whether you're a curious visitor or a passionate marine life enthusiast, this iconic attraction inside Dubai Mall offers something magical for everyone. Before diving into what you’ll see, be sure to grab your Dubai Aquarium tickets in advance to skip the queues and make the most of your time with the ocean’s finest.

What Makes Dubai Mall Aquarium Special?

The Dubai Aquarium is one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world, holding 10 million liters of water and housing thousands of marine creatures. Located on the Ground Level of Dubai Mall, the aquarium stretches over 50 meters in length and is 11 meters high — a glass tunnel lets you walk through this aquatic wonderland with 270-degree views.

Right above it sits the Underwater Zoo, which is just as captivating, with themed zones like Rainforest, Rocky Shore, and Living Ocean — each home to a variety of exotic and rare species.

Now let’s explore the top marine species you can spot during your visit!

1. Sand Tiger Sharks

As one of the main stars of the aquarium, the sand tiger shark commands attention with its menacing teeth and powerful presence. Despite its fearsome look, this species is surprisingly calm and slow-moving. These sharks can be seen gliding gracefully through the tank, giving visitors an up-close look at one of the ocean's apex predators.

Fun Fact: Dubai Aquarium has one of the largest collections of sand tiger sharks in the world.

2. Giant Groupers

Easily recognized by their size and spotted body patterns, giant groupers are another favorite among aquarium visitors. These massive fish can grow up to 2.5 meters long and weigh over 400 kg! Despite their size, they are generally docile and often seen lurking near the artificial reefs or rocky sections.

3. Golden Trevally

This fast-moving, golden-hued fish species adds a burst of color to the tank. Known for their shimmering scales and darting movements, golden trevallies are a schooling fish, meaning you’ll usually see them moving together in mesmerizing harmony.

4. Green Sea Turtles

The peaceful, slow-swimming green sea turtles are a highlight for families and kids. These gentle creatures are often seen paddling calmly through the water or resting on the tank’s floor. Their presence not only delights visitors but also reinforces the aquarium’s conservation mission.

Conservation Note: Dubai Aquarium is involved in local initiatives to rescue and rehabilitate injured sea turtles in UAE waters.

5. Giant Spider Crabs

Found in the Underwater Zoo section, giant spider crabs are among the world’s largest arthropods. With leg spans that can reach over 3 meters, these creatures are both fascinating and eerie. They usually reside in the “Living Ocean” zone, where deep-sea species are featured.

6. Sea Snakes

These slithering marine reptiles may seem intimidating, but they’re incredibly interesting to observe. With their narrow, ribbon-like bodies, sea snakes at the Dubai Aquarium are housed in secure enclosures and are typically part of the Underwater Zoo’s educational exhibits.

7. Humboldt Penguins

These cold-climate cuties are housed in a temperature-controlled environment and love to interact with visitors during their feeding times. Although not technically marine species like fish or sharks, penguins are beloved aquatic residents at the aquarium.

8. Giant Pacific Octopus

Known for its intelligence and camouflage skills, the giant Pacific octopus is a marvel of nature. It’s often seen stretching out its arms or hiding among rocks in the Rocky Shore zone of the Underwater Zoo.

9. Cuttlefish and Jellyfish

Don’t miss the translucent beauty of moon jellyfish or the shape-shifting behavior of cuttlefish. These soft-bodied marine creatures are housed in beautifully lit cylindrical tanks, providing both a calming and educational viewing experience.

10. King Crocodile

This one’s a showstopper. At over 5 meters long and weighing more than 750 kg, the King Crocodile is a resident predator of the Underwater Zoo. This mighty reptile has a separate, glass-walled enclosure and is one of the most photographed creatures in the exhibit.

Plan Your Visit: Tips for a Great Experience

To make the most of your trip to the Dubai Aquarium, consider the following tips:

Buy tickets online in advance to avoid long queues. Look out for combo deals with the Underwater Zoo and other Dubai Mall attractions.

Go early in the day or on weekdays to enjoy a more peaceful experience.

Don’t skip the Underwater Zoo — many guests think the main tank is the end, but the upstairs zoo is a must-see.

Bring your camera, but avoid flash photography around sensitive species.

Check for feeding times and shows — these offer excellent photo ops and educational commentary from staff.

Family-Friendly, Educational & Truly Magical

The Dubai Mall Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is more than just a visual experience — it’s an educational adventure and a conservation-focused attraction rolled into one. Whether you're traveling solo, as a couple, or with children, there’s plenty to explore, learn, and admire.

From fierce sharks to friendly penguins, every encounter here is unforgettable. Don't forget to explore the Dubai Mall Aquarium and Underwater Zoo completely — each zone holds its own surprises and special marine moments that are sure to inspire a lifelong love for the ocean.