Exploring Fakieh Aquarium in Jeddah: A Journey into the Underwater World
If you’re ever in Jeddah and looking for a unique family-friendly attraction, Fakieh Aquarium is a must-visit. Located along the scenic Corniche Road, it is the only public aquarium in Saudi Arabia and offers an exciting blend of education and entertainment. Since its launch in 2013, the aquarium has attracted visitors from all over, showcasing the incredible biodiversity of the Red Sea, along with marine life from other parts of the world.
What to Expect at Fakieh Aquarium
The aquarium houses over 200 marine species, including sharks, stingrays, and sea horses. You can marvel at rare creatures such as sand sharks and Napoleon wrasses, and even catch sight of turtles that belong to species that have been around for millions of years. There’s also a thrilling Dolphin and Sea Lion Show, perfect for families looking to engage with the sea in a lively, interactive way.
The aquarium is designed with families in mind, providing play areas for children and on-site dining options such as the Blue Ocean Restaurant, where you can enjoy a variety of meals with a beautiful view of the Red Sea. The layout is intuitive, and you can easily spend hours exploring the various exhibits.
Launch and Capacity
Opened in 2013, Fakieh Aquarium can host up to 3,000 visitors at a time, ensuring a spacious and comfortable experience for guests. It’s open daily from 10 AM to 11 PM, with slightly adjusted hours on Fridays to accommodate prayer times.
Ticket Prices
Here’s a breakdown of the ticket prices for your visit:
Aquarium Entry Tickets:
- Adults (10 years and above): 69 SAR
- Children (2-9 years): 57 SAR
- Free for children under 2 years
Dolphin Show:
- Adults: 85 SAR
- Children (2-9 years): 75 SAR
- Free for children under 2 years
Combo Tickets (Aquarium + Dolphin Show):
- Adults: 139 SAR
- Children (2-9 years): 119 SAR
- Family Pass (2 Adults + 2 Children): 485 SAR
Dolphin Show Schedule
- Saturday to Wednesday: 6:30 PM
- Thursday to Friday: 6:30 PM and 9:30 PM
- Sundays: No Shows
People’s Reviews
Many visitors have shared glowing reviews about their experiences. Families often rave about how interactive and well-maintained the aquarium is, especially highlighting the dolphin show as a major attraction. Some reviews mention that the aquarium offers a perfect blend of learning and fun, making it a great stop for kids and adults alike. However, a few reviews suggest arriving early to avoid large crowds, as it can get busy during weekends.
FAQs
What are the opening hours?
• Fakieh Aquarium is open daily from 10 AM to 11 PM, with Friday hours starting at 1:30 PM.
Is there a prayer room?
• Yes, there is a prayer room located beside the Blue Ocean Restaurant.
Can you bring outside food?
• No, outside food and beverages are not allowed inside the aquarium.
Whether you’re a marine enthusiast or simply looking for a fun day out, Fakieh Aquarium is a fantastic place to discover the wonders of the sea without even getting your feet wet!
