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Sharjah Aquarium

Things To Do In Sharjah Aquarium

Top 10 things to do in Sharjah Aquarium

1. Aquarium Tour

Explore an underwater world filled with a mesmerizing array of marine life at the Sharjah Aquarium. With a focus on educating visitors about the importance of conservation, the Aquarium Tour invites guests to journey through the deep blue, observing everything from the smallest clown fish to the larger sea rays. As you walk through the themed zones that replicate different local aquatic environments, you'll gain insights into the habitats of sea creatures found in the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The Sharjah Aquarium, spanning two levels, is home to over 250 species of marine fauna, including reef sharks and seahorses. The tour is not just an entertaining experience but an educational one as well, with plaques and interactive screens providing fascinating facts about marine life, threats they face, and conservation efforts. The duration of the tour typically ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours, giving visitors plenty of time to immerse themselves in the wonders of aquatic life.

2. Behind-the-Scenes Tour

The Behind-the-Scenes Tour at Sharjah Aquarium offers a unique opportunity for visitors to witness what it takes to maintain a diverse and balanced aquatic environment. This tour provides a sneak peek into the daily routines of marine biologists and caretakers. Participants will get to see the food preparation areas, quarantine tanks, and the state-of-the-art water filtration systems that are key to sustaining the delicate ecosystem within the aquarium. This eye-opening experience lasts about an hour and allows for a deeper understanding of the complexities of marine conservation. Guests will learn about the breeding programs, medical care, and the challenges of keeping a man-made habitat as close to natural as possible. It's an enlightening journey that combines the thrill of discovery with practical education in marine stewardship.

3. Snorkeling Adventure

The Snorkeling Adventure at Sharjah Aquarium provides a thrilling face-to-fin experience with the wonders of the underwater world. After a brief safety and equipment orientation, participants are led into designated tanks that simulate natural reef environments. Here, you can expect to swim alongside a variety of fish species, with striking colors and patterns. The experience is carefully supervised, ensuring safety for both the snorkelers and the marine life. Duration for this adventure typically spans around an hour, during which time swimmers can freely explore under the watchful eye of trained professionals. The Snorkeling Adventure is suitable for beginners and experienced snorkelers alike; however, participants must meet certain age and swimming ability criteria. This immersive experience not only brings you closer to marine life but also raises awareness about marine ecosystems and the importance of preserving them.

4. Educational Workshops

Sharjah Aquarium is not just a place to observe marine life; it's also a learning center where visitors of all ages can engage in Educational Workshops. With a mission to promote marine conservation, these workshops cover a variety of topics such as marine biodiversity, the life cycle of marine creatures, and the impact of human activities on aquatic environments. The workshops are crafted to be interactive and informative, often involving hands-on activities like dissecting squids or building mini-reef tanks. Lasting approximately 2 hours, they are led by knowledgeable educators who are passionate about the ocean and its inhabitants. These workshops are perfect for school trips, family outings, or anyone interested in marine science. There's a small fee to participate, which includes all the necessary materials for the workshop's activities.

5. Fish Feeding Shows

Get a glimpse of the feeding frenzy that takes place in the ocean's depths without getting wet! The Fish Feeding Shows at Sharjah Aquarium is a spectacle that attracts visitors of all ages. These shows feature aquarium staff divers descending into the tanks, armed with buckets of fish and other feed, as a multitude of marine life swarm around them in anticipation of mealtime. Watching the feeding tactics of different species—how some gently take food from the divers' hands while others dash through the water with speed and precision—makes for an engaging and educational experience. The shows typically last for about 30 minutes and run at scheduled times throughout the day, so plan to arrive on time to catch this delightful display of natural behavior. Not only is the show entertaining, but it also provides a great opportunity to learn more about the diet and eating habits of various marine animals.

6. Guided Group Tours

For those looking to delve deeper into marine life knowledge, the Guided Group Tours at Sharjah Aquarium offer a personalized and detailed exploration of the aquatic exhibits. An expert guide leads groups through the two-floor complex, sharing fascinating facts about the species on display, their natural habitats, and the environmental challenges they face. These tours are ideal for school groups, families or any collective interested in a more structured and informative visit. Tours can be adapted to fit the interests and educational needs of the group, making each tour a unique experience. Lasting around 1 to 1.5 hours, a Guided Group Tour must be booked in advance and can cater to different group sizes. Special rates are often available for educational groups or larger parties.

7. Photography Sessions

Whether you’re an amateur photographer or a professional, the Photography Sessions at Sharjah Aquarium present an opportunity to capture the serene and sometimes dynamic beauty of marine creatures. Surrounded by the blue hues of water and the colorful aquatic life, photographers can take their time to get the perfect shot of the rare and exotic species housed within the aquarium. These sessions last about 2 hours, giving you ample time to explore different angles and compositions. Patrons should note that while personal photography is allowed, the use of flash is prohibited to prevent disturbing the sensitive marine life. For those seriously into marine photography, the aquarium occasionally offers workshops and courses to hone the craft, which may be priced separately from general admission.

8. Marine Art Exhibits

Sharjah Aquarium hosts Marine Art Exhibits, showcasing artworks and installations inspired by the sea and its inhabitants. These exhibits change periodically and feature local and international artists. Visitors can experience this blend of art and marine education, which aims to inspire conservation and appreciation for the ocean through creative expression. These exhibits often have interactive components, such as sculptures that you can walk through or digital works that come to life with the movements of visitors. Duration of time spent enjoying the art exhibits varies, but visitors usually allot at least 30 minutes to an hour to take in the art and perhaps participate in any workshop opportunities that may coincide with the shows. Attending a Marine Art Exhibit offers a unique, culturally enriching perspective on marine life.

9. Touch Pools

One of the most interactive experiences at Sharjah Aquarium is the Touch Pools, where visitors can gently handle and observe a variety of marine invertebrates. Under the supervision of knowledgeable staff, children and adults alike can come into direct contact with sea stars, urchins, and other safe-to-touch marine creatures. The tactile experience of feeling the textures and movements of these animals fosters a personal connection with marine life and often sparks curiosity about their roles in the ecosystem. Touch Pools sessions are brief but memorable, generally lasting around 20 minutes as part of the larger aquarium visit. It's a hands-on learning activity included in the general admission price, allowing visitors an up-close encounter with fascinating sea life.

10. Sea Safari

The Sea Safari is an exciting boat tour organized by Sharjah Aquarium, taking visitors on a coastal journey around the surrounding waters of Sharjah. As you cruise along, the guide will point out various marine habitats and share interesting information about the local wildlife and conservation efforts. Guests typically observe a mixture of natural sights and landmarks from the unique vantage point of the sea. Each Sea Safari lasts approximately 2 hours, subject to weather conditions. It's a captivating way to spend time on the water while learning about the marine ecosystem that exists just beyond the shores of Sharjah. Advanced booking is required, and there's an additional charge for this tour, which is separate from the aquarium admission fee.

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