The National Aquarium (TNA), located in the lifestyle hub of Al Qana, Abu Dhabi, will showcase the largest collection of sharks and rays in the Middle East when it opens its doors later this year.
The National Aquarium has confirmed that it will house over 200 sharks and rays, representing 25 different species.
The aquarium is also the only place in the UAE to house a school of iconic Scalloped Hammer Head Sharks. Additionally, the Bull Sharks will also make their debut in the region.
Other species of sharks and rays will include Sand Tiger Sharks, Lemon Sharks, Zebra Sharks, Black Tip Reef Sharks, Eagle Rays, Shovelnose Rays, Cownose Rays and Freshwater Rays.
With shark numbers dwindling due to over-fishing, the team at The National Aquarium is seeking to turn fear into fascination and educate visitors around how well these apex predators can adapt to living peacefully.
Guests will be able to hand-feed sharks as large as two metres long as part of the experiences on offer.
Paul Hamilton, general manager at The National Aquarium, said: “We cannot wait for our opening this year, to reveal our array of animals and animal-related activities… We are hoping that through personal interaction, the aquarium will help people overcome any fears and perceptions that they might have.”
The National Aquarium signed a five-year partnership with The Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) in July 2020 with the aim to help create the largest and most innovative rehabilitation schemes of its kind to protect and rehabilitate wildlife in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.
The partnership has resulted in a large number of animals saved, including 200 sea turtles being successfully rescued and released until today.
The National Aquarium is set to be the largest aquarium in the Middle East and is home to 46,000 creatures spread across 10 zones.
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