Sharjah Aquarium: All You Need to Know
Sharjah, one of the largest cities in Emirati UAE, is quite popular for its museums and exhibits beyond culture and traditions. One such attraction that beautifully elevates the charm of the city is the Sharjah Aquarium.
Inaugurated on June 6, 2008, this aquarium for kids is located in the Al Khan Old area, spans over two floors with 21 aquariums, and is considered the largest government educational center in the UAE.
From gorgeous sea rays and coral reefs to fascinating seahorses and clownfish, this aquarium is a treasure for everyone who adores the beauty of maritime life.
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Read on this blog to explore more about Sharjah Aquarium for a visit that is truly unforgettable.
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| Sharjah Aquarium | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Al Khan Old area, Sharjah, UAE |
| Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (Sat-Thu); 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM (Fri) |
| Ticket Prices | AED 25 for adults; AED 15 for kids (2-12 years); Free for children < 2 |
| Popular Activities | Shark Feeding, Main Tank Feeding, Interactive Pool Touch Experience |
| Nearby Attractions | Al Noor Island, Sharjah Maritime Museum, Sharjah Heritage Museum |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekday mornings |
Tickets, Timings, and Accessibility Information
Sharjah Aquarium is open throughout the week from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM from Saturdays to Thursdays and 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Fridays.
During Ramadan, the aquarium is open from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM and 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM from Saturdays to Thursdays and 9:00 PM to 11:00 PM on Fridays. However, the same will remain closed in the evening during the last 10 days of Ramadan.
Also, take note that the aquarium is closed on the following, according to the Islamic calendar
- 29th and 30th day of Ramadan
- First day of Eid Al-Fitr
- 9th day of Dhul Hijjah
- First day of Eid Al-Adha
Further, let’s take a look at Sharjah Aquarium ticket prices:
- Children under 2 years: Free
- Children between 2 and 12 years: AED 15
- Adults (13 years and above): AED 25
- Group of 6 or more children between 2 and 12 years: AED 10 per child
- Group of 6 or more adults (13 years and above): AED 15 per adult
- Government school and university trip: Free
- Private school and university trip: AED 5 per person
- Senior Citizens above 60 years with one companion: Free
- People of Determination: Free
The best part? You can take advantage of free entry on the below-mentioned days:
- International Museum Day: 18th May
- Martyr’s Day: 1st December
- UAE National Day: 2nd December
Apart from delivering a mesmerizing experience, the aquarium has several facilities, ranging from wheelchair access for senior citizens, private rooms for mothers, access for senior citizens to cafes with free Wi-Fi and gift shops to make the visit enjoyable.
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Sharjah Aquarium Exhibits and Events
The aquarium hosts special events and exhibits beyond its permanent display. These temporary Sharjah Aquarium events and exhibits include educational seminars and workshops on history, art, and science for all age groups, delivering exclusive ways to offer insights into the wonders of the ocean.
Currently, the aquarium is running the Summer Museum Adventures event till September 31, 2024, to provide educational experiences and fun activities to the visitors.
So, if you want to learn about marine life, participate in creative workshops, or enjoy family activities, this event is a must-visit. Now, let’s discover the activities conducted during the event.
- Shark Feeding: Enjoy the exciting shark feeding session and leverage the opportunity to see these creatures closely every Saturday, Monday, and Wednesday between 1 PM and 1:30 PM.
- Main Tank Feeding: Want to see the beautiful creatures of the ocean enjoying their meals? Then, experience this remarkable activity at 10 AM from Saturday to Thursday.
- Interactive Pool Touch Experience: Offering a thrilling opportunity to touch beautiful marine species, this activity allows you to engage with a variety of stunning creatures. It is a perfect family activity.
- Workshops: If your children are aged between, 6 and 12, they will love the hands-on workshop at Sharjah Aquarium. Conducted on Friday and Saturday evenings, this activity is sure to inspire young minds.
Visitor Reviews and Experiences
Wondering what makes this aquarium a must-visit? Well, let’s explore Sharjah Aquarium reviews. Visitors are often noticed praising the beautiful displays and educational insights on Arabian Gulf marine life showcased by the aquarium.
Many of them also highlighted the interactive activities for kids, family-friendly atmosphere, and well-maintained facilities for seniors.
Some also appreciated the variety of creatures displayed while talking well about the efforts made by authorities to protect and preserve marine life. Thus, an enriching and knowledge-gaining experience awaits you!
Dining and Refreshment Options
In an effort to deliver a comfortable experience, Sharjah Aquarium has an in-house cafe that offers a large variety of refreshment options. From delightful sandwiches and beverages to mouthwatering salads and desserts, the cafe has everything you need to satisfy your hunger.
If you are looking for more options, there are a few restaurants like Al Khan Lagoon and Al Qasba in the close vicinity of the aquarium, offering local Middle Eastern and international dishes. For a deeper dive into what Al Qasba has to offer, including its attractions, check out the Attractions at Al Qasba Sharjah blog.
Additionally, if you are interested in more about the local market scene, explore the Sharjah Gifts Markets article.
For those looking for cultural experiences, Al Boom Tourist Village offers a unique visit!
Nearby Attractions
Are you searching for things to do near Sharjah Aquarium? The area around the aquarium is full of attractions. In a short drive, you can also explore:
- Al Noor Island is located approximately 6 km from the aquarium and is popular for its landscapes and Butterfly House.
- Sharjah Maritime Museum is right next to the aquarium, providing knowledge on the maritime history of UAE.
- Sharjah Art Foundation is located 5.5 km away from the aquarium and is a must-visit for art lovers.
- Sharjah Heritage Museum is also 5 km from the aquarium and is a perfect place to learn about the rich history of Sharjah.
- Additionally, don’t miss visiting the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization for an enriching cultural experience.
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Seasonal Tips
The best time to visit Sharjah Aquarium, home to 150 marine species, is during weekdays in the morning to enjoy the various exhibits and activities to the fullest.
The aquarium can be highly crowded on weekends and public holidays, especially in the evenings. If you are planning a school or university visit then plan in advance and book the tickets online to reduce waiting time.
Photographic Opportunities
Sharjah Aquarium is a captivating location for clicking photos with different backdrops of marine life. The main tank is perfect for clicking wide-angle pictures with diverse species.
If you’re looking for more scenic locations for photography or relaxation, consider visiting Al Mamzar Beach Park, a nearby attraction with stunning landscapes and pristine beaches.
For excellent close-ups, colorful coral reefs, seahorses, and jellyfish tanks are ideal spots. The interactive workshops are a great opportunity for capturing candid moments.
Note that flashlights are strictly prohibited to protect the species, and professional equipment requires prior permission.
FAQs
- What is the best time to visit Sharjah Aquarium?
The best time to visit Sharjah Aquarium is on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and enjoy the exhibits and activities fully. It can be crowded during weekends and holidays, especially in the evenings. - How much are the tickets for Sharjah Aquarium?
Tickets cost AED 25 for adults and AED 15 for children aged 2-12. Children under 2, senior citizens, and people of determination can enter for free. - What are the key activities at Sharjah Aquarium?
Key activities include shark feeding, interactive pool touch experiences, and main tank feedings. There are also educational workshops for kids and families. - Is Sharjah Aquarium wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the aquarium is wheelchair-accessible, providing facilities for senior citizens, along with private rooms for mothers and cafes to make your visit more comfortable. - Are there any restaurants near Sharjah Aquarium?
Yes, the in-house cafe offers snacks and beverages. Nearby restaurants, like Al Khan Lagoon and Al Qasba, provide local and international cuisine options.
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