Dubai Dolphinarium: Tickets

The Dubai Dolphinarium has long been quite the hit among families and nature lovers visiting the Arabian metropolis; at this fun, indoor (read: air-conditioned) attraction, you'll be able to get up close with all kinds of marine life — but this isn't your typical zoo or aquarium, it's a far more interactive setting, with swimming and feeding sessions, as well as delightful performances throughout the day.

Also home to the Creek Park Bird Show, an exotic showcase of some of Mother Nature's most colorful feathered creations, the Dubai Dolphinarium sells itself as a one-stop shop for nature and wildlife entertainment — and with affordable Dubai Dolphinarium tickets available, it's easy to squeeze into any UAE trip.

Here's all you need to know about the Dolphinarium, one of the most exciting theme parks in Dubai.

How much do Dubai Dolphinarium tickets cost?

When it comes to tickets, the Dubai Dolphinarium offers a variety of options. For a Swim with Dolphins experience, which involves a 20-minute close encounter with dolphins, the prices range from AED450 up to AED2500, depending on the specific experience you want.

For shallow water, the price is AED450 (roughly US$125) and for deep water swimming tickets, the price is AED630 (US$170).

There are also options for private groups available: shallow water group passes close AED1,899 (US$515) and deep water group passes will set you back AED2,499.99 (US$680), both accommodating up to 3 people.

All Swimming With Dolphins tickets also come with a complimentary printed photo of your choice, taken by the venue's professional photographers.

Tickets to the Dolphin and Seal Show, which includes a 45-minute show with dolphins and seals showcasing their best tricks and skills, are AED99 (US$27) for adults and AED49 (US$13) for children aged 2-11.

Finally, tickets for the Creek Park Exotic Bird Show are AED50 for an adult pass (US$14) and AED30 (US$14) for kids.

Who is entitled to a discount?

If you book your tickets in advance, you can be eligible for 10% off the Dolphin and Seal Show. This discount is only available through the website.

UAE residents are also eligible for discounts on the Dolphin and Seal Show. So long as you have a valid Emirati ID, tickets are only AED 35 (US$10) for a child and AED 79 (US$22) for an adult – this equates, roughly, to a 20% discount.

Is it possible to visit for free?

The Dubai Dolphinarium allows people of determination with SANAD cards to enter for free, while their companion is granted 50% off their ticket.

Should you book online?

Booking online in advance is highly recommended, as it will guarantee your tickets for the particular time slot you prefer. It's also a great way to save some money - booking online can get you up to 10% off the regular ticket price.

What are the best Dubai Dolphinarium experiences?

Dubai Dolphinarium Tickets: Dolphin and Seal Show

For around US$25, you can witness a playful, high-energy 45-minute show — the main actors, the seals and dolphins, will show off their amazing skills and tricks.

The show combines music with acrobatics and plenty of splashing – a combination suitable for the whole family.

Dubai Dolphinarium Tickets: Swimming with Dolphins

This type of tour includes 20-30 minutes during which you can meet, play and interact with these intelligent creatures. This ticket can be a dry interaction if you prefer, where you play with the dolphins from the poolside.

Either way, the experience costs around US$115.

Private Transfer from Dubai Hotel to Dubai Dolphinarium

This tour includes convenient pickup and drop-off from your hotel to the Dubai Dolphinarium. With your own driver throughout the journey, you won't have to worry about any of the logistics. This tour costs roughly US$75 per group of up to 6 people, but does not include the Dolphinarium entrance fees.

What will you see?

With opportunities to such as the dolphin and seal show, swimming with dolphins and the Creek Park Bid Show, there are plenty of things to do at Dubai Dolphinarium.

The Dolphin and Seal Show is one of the highlights of a visit to Dubai Dolphinarium – take a seat and watch dolphins perform acrobatic stunts and show off their intelligent, cheeky characteristics. You'll also get to see seals jumping, spinning and performing other tricks (if you're lucky, including the stereotypical beach ball). You can even join a Swimming with Dolphins session and interact with these remarkable marine mammals.

The Creek Park Bird Show, which takes place four times daily, is also a popular attraction within the park. Here, you can see over 20 species of exotic birds from around the world — Blue and Gold Macaws, Sulphur Crested Cockatoos and Eclectus Parrots, to name a few —and even feed the friendly fliers.

Rounding out the list of attractions, you've got a mirror maze, a 5D/7D Cinema and a gift shop selling all kinds of ocean-themed toys and souvenirs. The on-site trampoline park is suitable for both kids and adults alike, while the on-site Art Factory invites curious kids to develop their creativity and imagination.

For when you're all tuckered out, the Happy Valley Restaurant located inside has a menu full of local staples like chicken shawarma as well as Asian-inspired dishes.

How to get to the Dubai Dolphinarium

The Dubai Dolphinarium is located within Dubai Creek Park, close to Children's City and the easiest way to get there is by car: either taxi, Uber, Careem, or a rental. Free parking is available onsite, on a first come, first served basis.

If you prefer public transport, the easiest way to get there is by Dubai Metro Rail's Green Line — you'll need to get off at Dubai Healthcare City Station and then walk 10 minutes to the entrance of the Dubai Dolphinarium. Alternatively, the 26 and 10 buses will get you within walking distance.

What are the performance schedules?

The main attractions — the Shows and Swimming sessions — take place at set times from Wednesday to Monday (no shows on Tuesdays), as follows:

• Dolphin & Seal Show:  11 AM, 2 PM and 6 PM;
• Creek Park Bird Show: are 12:15 PM, 3:15 PM, 7:30 PM;
• Swim With Dolphins: 9:45 AM, 10:45 AM, 1:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 5:15 PM and 6:15 PM.

Specific times may change depending on the season, so it's best to double-check the website.

Attractions such as the Mirror Maze, 5D Cinema, the Gift Shop and the Happy Valley Restaurant are open from 10 AM to 7 PM, Monday to Saturday.

Is it wheelchair friendly?

Yes, Dubai Dolphinarium is wheelchair-friendly. The entrance, all areas of the Dolphinarium and bathrooms are accessible. Wheelchair users can also enjoy the Dolphin Show with special seating arrangements available in the main showroom.

When is the best time to visit the Dubai Dolphinarium?

The best time to visit the Dubai Dolphinarium is during the cooler months, from November to April, when Dubai's weather is pleasant. The Dolphinarium offers both indoor and outdoor attractions, and the cooler temperatures make the experience more comfortable.

For a more intimate experience with these majestic marine creatures, avoid weekends and public holidays, when it is generally more crowded.

Which other theme parks are there in Dubai?

• Dubai Aquarium
• Green Planet
• The Lost Chambers Aquarium
• Miracle Garden
• Dubai Safari Park
• Dubai Butterfly Garden
• Penguin Encounter
• Dubai Garden Glow

Travel tips

• Check the Dolphinarium's schedule before your visit to make sure you get to see the shows that interest you.
• While the Dolphinarium is indoors and air-conditioned, wear comfortable shoes as you might walk around a lot.
• Dubai can be hot, so make sure you carry a bottle of water with you to stay hydrated.
• Personal photography is allowed, but avoid using flash during shows to not disturb the animals.