Sharjah aquarium offers rare glimpse of UAE marine life

Sharjah aquarium is home to 30 different species, including sharks, and gives visitors a rare glimpse into the marine life of the United Arab Emirates.

The world-class aquarium, located in Al Khan, was inaugurated last week by His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.

It takes visitors on a journey from the west coast to the east coast of Sharjah.

The main aim of the aquarium is educational as it focuses on the characteristics of marine life in the UAE. The plan is to increase the number of species in the aquarium from 30 to more than 50 in the next few months, said Ismail Al Hamadi, assistant curator of the aquarium.

"The aquarium is also dedicated to the preservation of marine life and to teach more about reproductive and environmental issues," said Al Hamadi.

"The aquarium is the result of British and local collaboration over the past two years," said Manal Ataya, Director of the Sharjah Museums Department.

She added that the aquarium was among the best in the world with its state-of-the-art technology and underwater collection.

"The Sharjah Museums Department is dedicated to providing information about the fish, their lives and their habitats, and to this end, has complimented the showcases with documentaries on the marine life of the UAE, displayed on large, electronic screens," Manal said.

At the end of the aquarium tour, for example, the visitor will see a display of mangrove trees, essential in preserving the environment.

When to visit