You can now dive with sharks at The National Aquarium in Abu Dhabi

There will be two options, one for certified divers and one for those who have no experience

The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi has introduced a new diving experience for those who are keen to get up close and personal with marine life. The attraction in Al Qana will now let guests have the opportunity to go on a diving excursion, with packages available for those with diving experience and those without.

Those who are not certified or do not have prior diving experience can dive into The National Aquarium’s main tank, which houses the Middle East’s largest shark and ray collection and includes hammerhead sharks, zebra sharks, eagle rays and a variety of other species.

Those who are certified can dive into the main tank but also get a chance to swim with 2.5-metre-long sand tiger sharks and lemon sharks as well as one of the world’s only school of hammerhead sharks.

The National Aquarium in Abu Dhabi is offering a new diving experience for guests. Photo: The National Aquarium

Both experiences are roughly two hours and participants will be accompanied by a guide, who will teach them underwater sign language and help them take part in a live feeding demonstration. Prior to the dive adventure, the instructor will conduct a brief theory lesson to ensure that basic safety guidelines for shallow water diving are followed.

“We are absolutely delighted to be offering our visitors such an extraordinary dive experience with our vibrant selection of sharks and rays,” says Paul Hamilton, general manager at The National Aquarium. "Of course, the reality is that sharks are grossly misunderstood, and many of them are currently endangered due to overfishing.

“Through our immersive experiences, The National Aquarium hopes to dispel this fear and celebrate these magnificent and fascinating creatures.”

The aquatic attraction opened in Al Qana, a new waterfront destination in the capital, in November. It’s home to 46,000 creatures and 300 species spread across 10 zones and is the largest aquarium in the Middle East.

The shark dive (certified divers) is Dh790 and the discover scuba diving (non-certified divers) is Dh1,210. More information at www.thenationalaquarium.ae

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  The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi opened to the public in November. All photos by Ruel Pableo for The National

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  It is the first attraction to open in Al Qana, a new waterfront destination.

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  Inside The Sub, one of 10 zones in the aquarium.

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  The Red Sea Wreck zone.

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  The UAE's Natural Treasures zone.

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  The Ring of Fire zone where guests can learn about volcanic caves and how islands are formed.

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  Children outside of the National Aquarium on opening day.

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  Tickets can be purchased at the door or online. Prices start at Dh105 ($28).

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  Visitors explore the Red Sea Wreck zone.

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  The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi is set to be joined by other attractions at Al Qana.

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  The aquarium is home to 46,000 creatures, representing 300 species.

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  Covering more than 9,000 square metres, it is the largest aquarium in the Middle East.

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  An underwater tunnel at the National Aquarium Abu Dhabi.

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  Visitors can book the aquarium tour or a behind-the-scenes tour.

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  The Flooded Forest zone is home to Super Snake – a female reticulated python, aged 14, that weighs 115 kilograms.

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  Inside the Red Sea Wreck zone visitors can can come face-to-fin with hundreds of fish.

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  At the Atlantic Cave zone visitors can discover what really lives beneath the ocean's surface.

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  The Frozen Ocean zone.

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  The Ocean Magic zone.

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  Inside Bu Tinah Island zone.

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  The Ocean Magic zone contains a car filled with fishes.

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  The Flooded Forest zone.

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  The UAE's Natural Treasures zone explores the country's rich pearl diving history.