Situated on the corniche of the vibrant city of Jeddah, the Fakieh Aquarium is the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia. With the Red Sea on its doorstep, Jeddah has a rich maritime history and a diverse ecosystem which is intricately presented within the confines of the Fakieh Aquarium. Offering an insight into the magical underwater world, the aquarium has become a key attraction for tourists and marine enthusiasts since its inception.
Opened to the public in 2013, Fakieh Aquarium was established with the primary motive of promoting marine education and conservation in the region. As an area once known mostly for its oil and pilgrimage tourism due to the proximity to Mecca, Jeddah's development of the aquarium added a new facet to its tourism portfolio, combining education with entertainment. The facility was named after its founder, Sheikh Abdul Rahman Fakieh, a prominent Saudi businessman with a vision for family-friendly attractions that can contribute to the local economy and the environment.
Featuring more than 200 species, Fakieh Aquarium is home to a myriad of marine creatures – from sharks and dolphins to the delicate sea horses and brightly colored coral fish. The Aquarium offers daily dolphin and seal lion shows, aiming to educate visitors about the intelligence and grace of these animals.
In line with the kingdom's Vision 2030 objectives to diversify entertainment and educational opportunities, Fakieh Aquarium offers school trips, allowing the younger generation to learn about marine life and the importance of looking after our oceans.
With Saudi Arabia's recent efforts to boost its tourism industry, Fakieh Aquarium has seen several new developments. One of the noteworthy trends is the increase in ‘edutainment’ – the blend of education and entertainment. Alongside this, there is a greater focus on conservation with facilities providing programs on coral reef protection and rehabilitation.
The aquarium is leveraging interactive technology to enhance visitor experience, introducing virtual reality (VR) zones where guests can immerse themselves in underwater adventures without getting wet.
Visitors to the Fakieh Aquarium are advised to check the latest opening hours and showtimes to plan their visit accordingly. There are also options for VIP tours and behind-the-scenes access for those interested in a more exclusive experience.
As Jeddah continues to expand its tourism offerings, Fakieh Aquarium stands out as a unique destination for both international tourists and Saudi residents. Its commitment to environmental education and sustainable tourism is a reflection of the city's dynamic evolution. Whether for the mesmerizing aquatic displays or the conservation-led ethos, the Fakieh Aquarium offers an impressive and worthwhile experience for all visitors.
Religious Places (9)
Historical Places (8)
Museums (5)
National Parks (1)
Zoos (1)
Mountains (2)
