National Aquarium Abu Dhabi 2026 in Abu Dhabi

The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi is the largest aquarium in the Middle East, home to more than 45,000 marine animals from around 300 species across ten themed zones. It sits on Al Qana Walk in Rabdan, Abu Dhabi, and is open between 10am and 10pm, which makes it as easy an evening plan as a morning one.

The first attraction at Al Qana

The aquarium opened to the public on 12 November 2021 and was the first attraction to open at Al Qana, the 2.4-kilometre waterfront destination in Rabdan. Alongside the aquarium, Al Qana has grown to include a yacht marina, an e-sports and gaming zone, a wellness hub and a virtual-reality park, so the aquarium is often one stop in a longer day out. The building covers more than 9,000 square metres, and it combines large-scale displays with a strong focus on learning how marine life adapts to very different habitats, from warm reefs to deep caves and icy seas.

Ten zones from the Gulf to the Frozen Ocean

A sensible route follows the zones in order and takes two to three hours at an easy pace:

• UAE’s Natural Treasures starts close to home with the species that live in the Emirates’ own waters.
• Red Sea Wreck recreates a sunken wreck scene, and Atlantic Cave a dramatic cave habitat, both full of colourful fish.
• Ocean Magic shows off the open sea, while Frozen Ocean takes you into icy waters, where puffins are among the residents.

The contrast between the zones keeps children curious from start to finish, and each one tells a different story about life beneath the waves. Look out for barracudas, lobsters and stingrays along the way.

More than 200 sharks and a record-breaking snake

For many visitors the sharks are the highlight: there are more than 200 of them, and the displays let you see them at close range. The aquarium is also home to the Super Snake, reported at opening as the largest snake in captivity in the world and around seven metres long. Take your time at both, as they tend to be the moments children talk about afterwards. For clearer photos through the glass, switch off your flash, which also keeps the environment calmer for the animals.

Who the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi suits

It works for families with young children, couples and visiting friends, and because it is entirely indoors it is a comfortable plan whatever the weather. Because each zone shows a different habitat, from Gulf waters to icy seas, it also doubles as a useful learning outing for school-age children studying oceans and ecosystems. Children under 12 must be accompanied by an adult aged 16 or above. The building is wheelchair accessible throughout, which makes it straightforward for grandparents and guests with limited mobility.

Planning your visit to Al Qana

Carry a valid photo ID. Food, drinks, glassware and alcohol cannot be brought inside, and casual, appropriate clothing is fine. Bookings are final and non-refundable, and the current ticket listing covers visits until 6 December 2026. Entry includes use of the Visit Abu Dhabi shuttle bus, subject to its conditions.

By car, head to Al Qana Walk and use the designated public parking; several bus routes also serve the area, and taxi drivers know it well. Al Qana has restaurants, cafés and entertainment along the promenade, so an evening at the aquarium followed by dinner on the water is an easy way to round off the day.

For more ideas, browse our UAE attractions, find more things to do in Abu Dhabi, see what is on this month in things to do in November, or pair it with a cooler day out at Snow Abu Dhabi.