Here’s a look at Penguin Cove inside the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo at Dubai Mall—a super cool, temperature-controlled habitat where Gentoo penguins (cute waddle, curly slide and all) live and play!
What Is Penguin Cove?
- Gentoo Penguins at Dubai Mall: Penguin Cove houses a colony of 16 Gentoo penguins (8 male, 8 female), originally brought from a facility in the U.S., now making their home in Dubai’s desert in an ultra-modern environment.
- A Chill Habitat: The exhibit replicates sub-Antarctic conditions—air is kept between 2–4 °C, water between 5–7 °C, and special lighting mimics their natural light cycle.
- Designed for Fun: It’s multi-level and interactive—complete with platforms, climb zones, and even a slide that penguins use to dive into the water.
What to Expect as a Visitor
- Aquarium & Zoo Access: Your ticket includes access to the Aquarium Tunnel (a 48-meter, 270° walkthrough surrounded by sharks, rays, and marine life) and the Underwater Zoo, featuring ecosystems like rainforest, rocky shores, and nocturnal creatures.
- Penguin Cove Experience: Step into the Penguin Cove yourself—or observe from viewing areas—to watch penguins waddle, swim, slide, and interact.
- Ticket Options:
- Basic Pass (~AED 169–199): Includes tunnel, zoo, Penguin Cove, plus a retail voucher.
- Ultimate Experience (~AED 254–269): Adds perks like submersible simulator, glass-bottom boat ride, fish feeding, and dining vouchers.
- VIP or Penguin Encounter Add-ons (~AED 239–399): Offers a more immersive, guided up-close experience with the penguins, skip-the-line access, or enhanced tours.
- Opening Hours:
- Mon–Thu: 10 AM – 11 PM (last entry ~10:15 PM)
- Fri–Sun: Extended until 12 AM (last entry ~11:15 PM)
- Duration: A full visit can take about 1.5 to 2 hours (tunnel, zoo, penguins). Some packages like the Ultimate Experience can take longer.
Why It’s Special
- A Unique Contrast: Seeing Antarctic penguins thriving in a desert mall—surrounded by marine marvels—is a neat wonder of modern exhibit design.
- Educational Touch: Many packages include educational commentary, feeding demos, or interactive elements—great for families or animal lovers.
- Accessibility & Convenience: Located at the ground (lower-ground) level of Dubai Mall—easy to access via Metro, bus, or car.
Bonus View:
This video gives you a taste of the cute antics and overall atmosphere at Penguin Cove—definitely worth a watch to get you excited!
Quick Snapshot
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Species | 16 Gentoo Penguins (8 male, 8 female) |
| Habitat Conditions | Air: 2–4 °C, Water: 5–7 °C, Simulated light cycles |
| Key Attractions | Aquarium Tunnel, Underwater Zoo, Penguin Cove, optional boat rides, simulator, behind-the-scenes, encounters |
| Ticket Price Range | Approx. AED 169 – 399 depending on package |
| Visit Duration | ~1.5 to 2 hours (longer for premium experiences) |
| Location | Lower ground floor, Dubai Mall |
| Best For | Families, animal enthusiasts, photo opportunities, educational fun |
Ready to Make the Visit?
Penguin Cove is a standout addition to Dubai’s bustling aquarium scene—it’s fun, educational, and one-of-a-kind. Let me know if you’d like help choosing the best package based on your interests or if you’d like tips on booking ahead and planning your visit!
