Atlantis The Lost Chambers Aquarium

Must Do Experiences

• Walk through the iconic Ocean Pavilion with its 11-meter-high glass panels teeming with sharks, rays, and turtle, and feel the thrill as marine life glides just inches from you.

• Visit the interactive touch tank to gently touch starfish, stingrays, and small sharks under the guidance of knowledgeable marine educators.

• Watch the daily Aquatheatre shows where trainers reveal fascinating insights about marine behavior, conservation, and the secrets of underwater ecosystems.

• Explore the 14 underwater corridors themed around the seven seas, each housing unique species from tropical reefs to deep ocean dwellers.

Hidden Gems

• The underwater photography exhibits in certain corridors offer the best lighting for capturing stunning shots of lionfish and moray eels without flash.

• Ask about the behind-the-scenes feeding sessions that sometimes occur outside regular hours—these intimate encounters provide unparalleled photo opportunities.

• The quieter morning hours before 11am offer a more serene experience with smaller crowds, allowing you to truly absorb the atmospheric ruins setting.

What Makes it Special

• The Lost Chambers is the only aquarium in the world built inside a fully immersive Atlantis-themed environment, complete with ancient ruins, carved pillars, and sunken temples that transport you to a mythical underwater civilization.

• With over 65,000 marine creatures representing 250 species, the aquarium offers one of the most diverse collections in the Middle East, including rare species you won't find anywhere else in the region.

• The architectural design by award-winning artists creates a seamless blend of fantasy and reality, making every corridor feel like an actual archaeological discovery beneath the waves.

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

Visit during weekday mornings between 9am and 11am for the smallest crowds and most peaceful exploration. The summer months see fewer international tourists, though the aquarium's air-conditioned environment remains comfortable year-round.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Use a camera with good low-light performance—the atmospheric lighting in the ruins corridors creates dramatic shots but requires careful exposure settings.

• The Ocean Pavilion's glass panels are best photographed from a slight angle to avoid reflections and capture the full depth of the marine life behind you.

• Consider bringing a wide-angle lens for the towering exhibits, and a macro lens for the smaller, colorful reef fish in the shallow tank areas.

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

Dubai is a modern, cosmopolitan city where Western dress codes are accepted at tourist attractions, but modest clothing is appreciated when visiting nearby areas. Tipping is customary for exceptional service at the café and for guided experiences.

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Annual marine conservation week featuring special talks by marine biologists and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours.

• Special holiday programs during Ramadan and Eid offering themed experiences and evening visits with traditional elements.

• School holiday educational workshops where children can learn about marine biology through hands-on activities and feeding demonstrations.

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Follow all posted guidelines at the touch tanks—never attempt to pick up or handle marine animals without staff supervision.

• Keep a safe distance from glass panels and never tap or knock on them, as this can stress the animals.

• Supervise children closely in all areas, and hold small hands near the deeper exhibits where the drop-offs are dramatic.