Sharjah Aquarium: Ticket Prices, Timings, and Guide

Have you ever wondered what it’s like to explore the depths of the Arabian Gulf and the Indian Ocean without getting wet? Sharjah Aquarium, one of the largest educational centers in the UAE, offers a captivating glimpse into the underwater world. Opened in 2008, it is home to nearly 100 species of marine life, including rays, sharks, seahorses, and more.

The aquarium not only showcases the stunning biodiversity of marine creatures but also emphasizes marine conservation through rehabilitation programs and awareness campaigns.

From interactive touch pools to live feeding shows, Sharjah Aquarium promises an educational and entertaining experience for visitors of all ages. In this guide, discover everything you need to know—from ticket prices and timings to major attractions and nearby spots to explore.

Whether you are a resident of the UAE or a visitor, Sharjah Aquarium is a must-see destination that brings the underwater world to life.

What is Sharjah Aquarium?

Sharjah Aquarium is a premier marine education center located in the Al Khan Old Area of Sharjah, UAE. Opened in 2008, it stands as the first and largest government-run aquarium in the country, covering an expansive area of 6,500 square meters.

This impressive facility is home to nearly 100 species of marine life, including rays, sharks, seahorses, and vibrant coral species. The aquarium features 21 tanks filled with 1.8 million liters of water, each designed to replicate the natural habitats of the Arabian Gulf and the Indian Ocean.

Visitors to Sharjah Aquarium can explore various ecosystems such as rocky shores, coral reefs, mangroves, and lagoons. These habitats are crafted to provide an immersive experience, allowing guests to observe marine creatures in settings that mirror their real-world environments.

Beyond its exhibits, Sharjah Aquarium is dedicated to marine conservation, actively participating in turtle rehabilitation programs and community environmental initiatives.

What are the Ticket Prices for Sharjah Aquarium?

Sharjah Aquarium offers joint tickets that also grant access to the Sharjah Maritime Museum, providing great value for visitors. The pricing is structured to accommodate families, groups, and school visits, ensuring affordability for all.

Ticket Category	Price (AED)
Children (under 2 years)	Free
Children (2-12 years)	15.00 AED
Adults (13+ years)	25.00 AED
Children Group (6 or more)	10.00 AED each
Adult Group (6 or more)	15.00 AED each
Government School Trips	Free
Private School Trips	5.00 AED each
Government University Trips	Free
Private University Trips	5.00 AED each
Senior (60+) + One Companion	Free
People with Disabilities	Free

Free Entry Days:

International Museum Day (May 18)
Martyr’s Day (December 1)
UAE National Day (December 2)

With affordable pricing and exclusive discounts for groups and schools, Sharjah Aquarium is accessible for everyone.

Where is Sharjah Aquarium Located?

Sharjah Aquarium is situated in the Al Khan Old Area, a prime cultural and historical spot in Sharjah, UAE. It is conveniently positioned right next to the Sharjah Maritime Museum, allowing visitors to explore two major attractions with ease.

Location

Address: Al Khan Old Area, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
Landmark: Adjacent to Sharjah Maritime Museum
Nearby Attractions: Al Noor Island, Al Majaz Waterfront, and Sharjah Art Museum

How to Get There?

By Car:

From Dubai: Take Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) towards Sharjah, then follow Al Khan Street signs.
From Abu Dhabi: Follow E11 Sheikh Maktoum Bin Rashid Road towards Sharjah, then turn to Al Khan Street.

By Public Transport:

Buses: Routes E303 and E307 from Dubai to Sharjah; drop off at Al Khan Street.
Taxis: Easily available across Sharjah and nearby Emirates.

Its well-connected location makes it a hassle-free destination for both locals and tourists.

What are the Timings of Sharjah Aquarium?

Sharjah Aquarium is open throughout the week, with varying schedules for weekdays, weekends, and the holy month of Ramadan. Visitors are advised to check the timings before planning their visit to make the most out of the experience.

Day	Timings
Saturday to Thursday	8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Friday	4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

During Ramadan:

Day	Morning Shift	Evening Shift
Saturday to Thursday	9:00 AM – 2:00 PM	9:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Friday	Closed in the morning	9:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Closed on:

29th & 30th of Ramadan
First Day of Eid Al-Fitr
9th of Dhul Hijjah
First Day of Eid Al-Adha

The well-organized schedule allows visitors to plan their visit comfortably, whether during regular days or festive seasons.

What Can You See Inside Sharjah Aquarium?

Sharjah Aquarium is home to an incredible array of marine life, spread across 21 tanks that replicate the natural ecosystems of the Arabian Gulf. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and enjoy live feeding shows that showcase the beauty of underwater life.

Exhibit	Highlights
Main Tank Feeding	Witness live feeding of sharks, rays, and various fish.
Coral Reef Exhibit	Vibrant corals with clownfish, butterflyfish, and more.
Mangrove Habitats	Home to species adapted to both freshwater and saltwater.
Touch Pool	Hands-on experience with starfish and small marine life.
Shark Feeding Shows	Held on Saturdays, Mondays, and Wednesdays.

These immersive exhibits provide a deep understanding of marine life and its natural habitats, making it an educational experience for all visitors.

Are There Educational Programs at Sharjah Aquarium?

Sharjah Aquarium is committed to marine education and environmental awareness. Through its various programs, the aquarium actively engages visitors, schools, and communities to understand the importance of marine conservation.

Educational workshops are held regularly, focusing on topics like marine biodiversity, the impact of pollution, and sustainable practices.

School groups are welcomed for guided tours that offer students a deeper insight into underwater ecosystems. Additionally, Sharjah Aquarium runs interactive sessions where children can participate in hands-on learning at the Touch Pool, experiencing marine life up close.

One of the aquarium’s flagship programs is its turtle rehabilitation initiative, which rescues and rehabilitates injured sea turtles before releasing them back into the wild.

This effort not only preserves marine species but also promotes community awareness about protecting marine ecosystems. Through its educational outreach, Sharjah Aquarium instills a sense of responsibility towards ocean conservation in the minds of its visitors.

What Facilities and Services Are Available?

Sharjah Aquarium is designed to offer visitors a seamless and enjoyable experience with a wide range of facilities and services. Whether you’re visiting with family, friends, or as part of an educational group, the amenities provided ensure convenience and comfort throughout your visit.

Facilities Available:

Parking: Ample parking space is available for both private vehicles and buses, making it easy for families and school trips to access the aquarium.
Accessibility: The facility is wheelchair accessible, with ramps and elevators to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
Rest Areas: Benches and resting spots are strategically placed for visitors to relax during their tour.
Prayer Rooms: Separate prayer rooms are available for men and women.
Restrooms: Clean and well-maintained restrooms are located on each floor for visitors’ convenience.
Baby Changing Stations: Family-friendly facilities include baby changing stations in designated restrooms.

Services Provided:

Guided Tours: Knowledgeable staff offer guided tours to enhance the learning experience.
Interactive Touch Pools: Visitors can engage directly with marine life in supervised touch pools.
Gift Shop: A gift shop is available where you can purchase souvenirs, toys, and marine-themed gifts.
Cafeteria and Refreshments: Visitors can relax and enjoy snacks and beverages in the cafeteria.
Event Hosting: Sharjah Aquarium also offers event spaces for birthday parties, corporate events, and educational workshops.

These facilities and services are designed to provide a complete and enjoyable experience, ensuring visitors of all ages have a memorable time.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit?

A visit to Sharjah Aquarium is best enjoyed when well-planned. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:

Before You Go:

Check Timings: Make sure to check the opening hours to avoid disappointment.
Plan Your Route: Familiarize yourself with the location and best travel routes.
Book Tickets Early: Pre-booking tickets can save you time during peak hours.

During Your Visit:

Attend Feeding Shows: Don’t miss the shark feeding sessions held on specific days.
Visit the Touch Pool: Engage with marine life up close for a hands-on experience.
Join a Guided Tour: Enhance your visit by learning interesting facts from knowledgeable guides.
Explore the Maritime Museum: It’s right next door and included in your ticket.

After Your Visit:

Explore Nearby Attractions: Al Noor Island and the Sharjah Maritime Museum are perfect to extend your day.
Visit the Gift Shop: Take home marine-themed souvenirs to remember your visit.

Planning your visit strategically allows you to enjoy every moment without missing any attractions.

What Other Attractions Are Near Sharjah Aquarium?

The area surrounding Sharjah Aquarium is filled with cultural and family-friendly attractions that make it easy to turn your visit into a full-day adventure. Here are some must-see spots nearby:

Nearby Attractions:

Sharjah Maritime Museum: Located right next to the aquarium, it offers insights into the rich maritime history of the UAE.
Al Noor Island: A beautiful escape with lush gardens, a butterfly house, and modern art installations.
Al Majaz Waterfront: Perfect for evening strolls, dining, and water shows, just a short drive away.
Sharjah Art Museum: A place to explore traditional and contemporary art exhibitions.
Sharjah Heritage Area: Discover traditional markets (souks), museums, and restored heritage houses.

Best Time to Visit Nearby Attractions:

Weekdays: Ideal for avoiding crowds.
Evenings: Perfect for waterfront attractions and outdoor explorations.

These attractions are all located within a short distance of Sharjah Aquarium, making it easy to explore multiple locations in a single trip.

How Does Sharjah Aquarium Support Marine Conservation?

Sharjah Aquarium is committed to marine conservation and actively participates in various initiatives to protect marine life and ecosystems. Its dedication to sustainability and environmental awareness is reflected in its projects and educational campaigns.

Conservation Programs:

Turtle Rehabilitation: Injured and sick sea turtles are rehabilitated and released back into the wild.
Marine Clean-Up Campaigns: The aquarium participates in annual clean-up projects to reduce ocean pollution.
Educational Workshops: Awareness programs teach visitors about the importance of marine life protection.
“Because We Care” Initiative: This project promotes public involvement in preserving marine habitats.

Awareness and Education:

School Tours: Students are educated on marine ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Interactive Sessions: Hands-on experiences like touch pools and workshops highlight the significance of marine life.
Exhibits on Pollution: Specific exhibits demonstrate the impact of pollution on marine life.

These efforts underline Sharjah Aquarium’s role in safeguarding marine life while educating the community about the importance of conservation.

Is Sharjah Aquarium Worth Visiting?

Absolutely, Sharjah Aquarium is worth visiting, especially if you are fascinated by marine life or are looking for an educational outing with family.

The aquarium is home to almost 100 species of fish, corals, and other marine creatures, making it a hub for learning and exploration. Its exhibits are well-maintained, interactive, and informative, providing visitors with a realistic underwater experience.

In addition to its impressive marine displays, Sharjah Aquarium also plays a significant role in marine conservation. Its rehabilitation programs for injured sea turtles and community clean-up campaigns are truly inspiring.

Moreover, the aquarium’s location next to the Sharjah Maritime Museum allows you to extend your visit and dive deeper into the history of maritime life in the region.

For families, tourists, and marine enthusiasts, Sharjah Aquarium offers both education and entertainment, making it a valuable experience in the heart of Sharjah.

Conclusion

Sharjah Aquarium is more than just a marine exhibit; it is a gateway to the hidden wonders of the Arabian Gulf. With its diverse marine life, interactive touch pools, and live feeding shows, it creates a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

Beyond entertainment, its commitment to conservation and education sets it apart as a leader in marine awareness in the UAE. Conveniently located in Al Khan, it is easily accessible and perfect for a family outing or a solo exploration of underwater life.

With nearby attractions like the Sharjah Maritime Museum and Al Noor Island, you can extend your visit and make it a full-day experience. If you are in the UAE, the Sharjah Aquarium is a must-visit to discover the beauty and importance of marine ecosystems.