Posted by Species, Safety & Experiences 2025
Many travellers wonder: Are there actually sharks in Dubai? And are they dangerous? The short answer: Yes, there are sharks – but there is very little danger for swimmers. These marine predators are shy, usually live in deeper waters of the Arabian Gulf and play no threatening role for tourism. At the same time, you can experience them up close in Dubai – safely and impressively, for example at the Dubai Aquarium or when diving with sharks. Here you will learn everything about shark species, habitats, safety and tours around the most fascinating hunters of the sea.
1. Sharks in the Arabian Gulf – Habitat and Characteristics
The Arabian Gulf is shallow, warm and rich in life. Despite the high temperatures, more than 30 shark species live here – from small reef sharks to large sand tiger sharks. Most stay far off the coast, around coral reefs, shipwrecks and artificial islands.
- Water temperature: 22–33 °C (warm all year)
- Habitats: coastal reefs, deep-water zones, lagoons
- Commonly seen: mostly off Abu Dhabi & Jebel Ali, rarely near beaches
Sharks play an important role in the ecosystem – they maintain balance by eating sick fish and regulating populations.
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2. Which shark species live in Dubai?
The variety of shark species is greater than many think. Some are regularly found in the waters around Dubai:
Blacktip Reef Shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus)
The best-known shark of the Arabian Gulf. It grows up to 1.6 metres, lives in shallow waters and is harmless to humans. Occasionally visible from a distance during boat tours.
Nurse Shark (Ginglymostoma cirratum)
Slow, peaceful and nocturnal. Nurse sharks rest on the seabed during the day and feed on small fish and crustaceans. Despite their size (up to 3 metres), they are harmless.
Sand Tiger Shark (Carcharias taurus)
This shark looks intimidating with its protruding teeth, but it is calm. In the Dubai Aquarium, more than 400 sand tiger sharks live – visitors can see them when diving or walking through the tunnel.
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Whale Shark (Rhincodon typus)
The largest fish in the world, but a gentle giant. Whale sharks feed on plankton and are a highlight for divers. They are occasionally spotted off the coast of Fujairah and Jebel Ali.
- Size: up to 12 metres
- Diet: plankton & small fish
- Danger: none – peaceful & rare
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3. Are sharks in Dubai dangerous?
Hardly. Despite occasional sightings, there have been almost no confirmed shark attacks in Dubai. Sharks avoid beaches and boats. The waters around Dubai Marina or Palm Jumeirah are too shallow and noisy for them.
- Very low risk for swimmers
- ️ Beaches are regularly monitored
- Tours in open waters are safe
Most sightings involve small reef sharks that swim harmlessly near the coast. Divers appreciate their calm behaviour and beauty.
4. Sightings & safety for swimmers
Dubai monitors its coastline regularly using drones and patrol boats. If a shark is sighted (extremely rare), swimmers are notified and beaches are temporarily closed.
- Monitoring: daily checks by lifeguards & coast guard
- Flag system: red = swimming prohibited, yellow = caution
- Best swimming season: October to May – calmer sea
5. Sharks at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
For a close encounter without entering the sea, visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo in the Dubai Mall – one of the largest aquariums in the world, home to over 33,000 marine animals.
- Over 400 sharks & rays in the main tank
- Sand tiger sharks as the main attraction
- Highlight: 48-metre underwater tunnel
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6. Diving with sharks – a special experience
Brave visitors can even dive with sharks at the aquarium. It’s safe, guided by professionals and suitable for beginners. You can observe the animals up close – an unforgettable adventure.
- Location: Dubai Aquarium, Downtown Dubai
- Duration: ~2 hours incl. briefing
- Requirement: no diving licence needed
Shark diving in Dubai Aquarium ➜
7. Sharks & conservation
Sharks are protected in the UAE. The government launched the “UAE Shark Conservation Project” to preserve endangered species. Shark fishing for fin soup is prohibited, and many diving schools promote respectful marine interaction.
- Goal: protect against overfishing & preserve balance
- Shark trade: strictly banned in the UAE
- Support: by Dubai Aquarium & local NGOs
8. Sharks in Arab culture
In traditional Arab culture, sharks were once seen as mystical creatures – strong, fearless and wise. Fishermen regarded them as a sign of rich fishing grounds. Today, they symbolise respect for nature and are increasingly viewed as fascinating animals rather than threats.
9. Safety while swimming & diving
If you swim or dive in Dubai, follow these simple safety rules – the risk is minimal:
- ️ Swim only at supervised beaches
- Avoid swimming at dusk or night
- ️ Don’t feed fish or attract sharks
- Join water tours only with licensed providers
10. Conclusion – fascinating, hardly dangerous
Sharks in Dubai are fascinating creatures deserving respect rather than fear. They are key parts of the marine ecosystem – and pose little risk to tourists. To see them, visit the Dubai Aquarium or book a guided diving experience. No need to be afraid – Dubai is very safe, even underwater.