What is the Dubai Dolphinarium?
An indoor arena in Creek Park with dolphin and seal shows, plus extras like dolphin swims and photo sessions. It's popular with families with young children.
Keeping dolphins in captivity is controversial, and some visitors choose to avoid dolphinariums for animal-welfare reasons. Consider this before booking.
Tickets
Prices depend on seat category (standard, VIP) and extras. Reseller prices vary. Book on the official site and check the current show schedule.
Tips
- Check the show schedule on the day: some shows are occasionally suspended.
- Arrive 20-30 minutes early for better seats.
- Don't go on a Tuesday.
- Creek Park entry may require a small separate fee.
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Getting there
It's at Creek Park Gate 1 in Bur Dubai. Take a taxi, or the metro to Dubai Healthcare City and a short taxi ride.
What to expect
The Dubai Dolphinarium, opened in 2008 in Creek Park, is an indoor, air-conditioned arena where bottlenose dolphins and seals perform a show of about 45 minutes, with jumps, tricks, ball games and audience interaction. The show runs a few times a day, so check the day's schedule. Seats closest to the pool are pricier, and the front rows get splashed.
Extras include swimming with the dolphins, photos with the dolphins and seals, a bird show, and a small Creek Park attraction complex nearby with an exotic bird show and a mirror maze, some on combo tickets.
Animal welfare
Captive dolphin shows are controversial. Animal welfare groups argue that dolphins suffer in captivity, and some travellers choose not to visit for that reason. If you'd prefer to see dolphins in the wild, boat trips from Dubai and Musandam in Oman often spot them.
Best time to visit
Weekday shows are calmer than Fridays and Saturdays, when local families fill the arena. The morning show is usually quietest. In winter (November-March), combine the show with a picnic in Creek Park and a cable car ride over the park. In summer, the indoor arena is a cool escape, but plan to arrive by taxi rather than walking through the park.
Crowds by day and time
From the typical weekly visitor pattern for Dubai Dolphinarium, based on Google’s popular-times data.
Quietest time
Monday, 9 am-1 pm
Busiest time
Saturday, 1-8 pm
Mistakes to avoid
- Assuming there are shows all day: there are only a few.
- Sitting in the splash zone in clothes you want to keep dry.
- Arriving at the wrong gate: it's Gate 1 of Creek Park.
- Visiting on a Tuesday, when it's usually closed.
Combining it with Creek Park and Old Dubai
Creek Park is one of Dubai's largest green spaces, with lawns, play areas, barbecue spots and a cable car along the Creek. Spend the morning in the park and the Dolphinarium, then take a taxi to the Al Fahidi historical district, cross the Creek on a traditional abra boat for a few dirhams, and explore the gold and spice souks in Deira.
With children
The show is designed for families, and children love the dolphins' jumps and the seals' comedy routines. Children's seats are cheaper in most categories. The arena is air-conditioned, and the show is short enough for younger children. Afterwards, Creek Park's playgrounds and lawns are a good place to let them run around in the cooler months.
Booking tips
Check the seat category before paying: the cheapest seats are at the back and sides, and VIP seats at the front get the closest view (and the most splash). Book the dolphin swim or photo sessions in advance, as they have limited places. Allow time to find parking inside Creek Park on weekends.
Is it worth it?
Families with young children often enjoy it. If animal welfare matters to you, consider alternatives like the Dubai Aquarium or a wildlife sanctuary.
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FAQs
How much is the Dubai Dolphinarium show?
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Roughly AED 50-110 depending on the seat.
What are the show times?
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Usually 11 am, 2 pm and 5 or 6 pm. Check the day's schedule.
Is the Dubai Dolphinarium open on Tuesdays?
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It's usually closed on Tuesdays.
How long is the show?
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About 45 minutes.
How long is the Dubai Dolphinarium show?
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About 45 minutes.
Where is the Dubai Dolphinarium?
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Heading to Dubai Dolphinarium?
See how busy it is right now and the quietest hours for your date, then walk in when the line is short.
Check live crowds →Sources
How we research: every guide is written by the BeatTheCrowd team from official sources and recent traveller reports, cross-checked against each other, and dated so you know how fresh it is. Last checked 29 October 2026. Prices and rules change, so always confirm on the official site before you book.
