


Sharjah Aquarium
About
Sharjah Aquarium offers an exciting underwater journey through Arabian Gulf marine life with interactive touch pools that let children get hands-on with sea creatures. Located in the scenic Al Qasba waterfront district, this moderately-sized aquarium combines educational exhibits with engaging activities perfect for young explorers eager to learn about local marine ecosystems.
Highlights
- ✓Interactive touch pools where kids can gently handle starfish, sea cucumbers, and other marine creatures under supervision
- ✓Engaging displays of Arabian Gulf marine life including moray eels, reef sharks, and colorful tropical fish
- ✓Educational programs and feeding demonstrations that teach children about local marine conservation
- ✓Child-friendly aquarium layout with exhibits at kid-height viewing levels
- ✓Beautiful Al Qasba waterfront location perfect for extending your visit with a canal boat ride or playground time
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on weekday mornings (Tuesday or Wednesday around 9-10 AM) for the quietest experience and best access to touch pools without crowds.
- 2.Combine your visit with the adjacent Sharjah Maritime Museum using a combo ticket to save money and extend your educational outing.
- 3.Bring hand sanitizer and have kids wash hands before and after the touch pools, and dress children in modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees) to respect local customs.
- 4.The aquarium is air-conditioned to a cool temperature, so bring a light sweater for younger children who may get chilly.
- 5.Note that Monday is closed, and Friday has very limited hours (4-8 PM only), so plan accordingly to avoid disappointment.
Best Time to Visit
Visit Tuesday through Thursday mornings between 9 AM and 11 AM for smaller crowds and cooler outdoor temperatures when walking around Al Qasba. Avoid Friday evenings and weekends when local families typically visit, and steer clear of school holiday periods in the UAE (typically December, March, and summer months).
What to Know
Entry is moderately priced with discounts often available for combo tickets with the Maritime Museum next door. Parking is available at Al Qasba, and the waterfront area offers numerous cafes and restaurants, though food is not permitted inside the aquarium itself.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round with air-conditioned comfort. The UAE's cooler months (November through March) are ideal as you can comfortably enjoy the outdoor Al Qasba area before or after your aquarium visit. Summer months (June-August) are extremely hot, making indoor attractions like this particularly popular.
Nearby Eats
Al Qasba waterfront features numerous family-friendly dining options within walking distance including The Noodle House (Asian cuisine kids enjoy) and Paul Bakery & Cafe (with sandwiches, pastries, and kid-friendly options). Many restaurants offer outdoor seating along the scenic canal, perfect for post-aquarium meals.
More Activities Near Sharjah (Al Qasba)
Al Qasba
Al Qasba is a vibrant waterfront entertainment district offering families a perfect blend of leisurely strolls, dining, and cultural activities along scenic canal views. Kids will love the colorful fountains, playgrounds, and the iconic Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel that dominates the skyline, while parents can enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and variety of family-friendly restaurants with outdoor seating overlooking the water.
Mega Park
Mega Park offers a fun-filled day of rides, games, and entertainment zones perfect for families exploring Sharjah. Located in the scenic Al Qasba waterfront area, this local theme park provides an affordable alternative to Dubai's mega attractions while still delivering plenty of excitement. The park's variety of activities keeps children entertained for hours while parents enjoy the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
Khalid Lake Trail
Khalid Lake Trail offers a peaceful escape with paved walking paths circling a scenic lake, complete with playgrounds, green spaces perfect for picnics, and stunning waterfront views. This free outdoor destination in Sharjah's Al Qasba district is ideal for families wanting active recreation without the expense, featuring shaded areas, gentle terrain suitable for strollers, and plenty of space for kids to run and play.
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
This world-class museum offers an engaging journey through Islamic art, science, and culture with interactive displays that bring history to life for young learners. With family-friendly educational programs and exhibits spanning astronomy, mathematics, and ancient innovations, children discover how Islamic civilization shaped the modern world in fascinating, hands-on ways.