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Are there sharks in Dubai?
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Bartosz Jaglarz
23 maja 2025
The beautiful sandy beaches of the Arabian Gulf are a paradise for every tourist and a characteristic feature of the landscape of Dubai, a city famous for its many amazing water attractions. But can you find sharks in the waters of Dubai? Learn more about sharks in Dubai and swimming safety in the Persian Gulf.
The landscape of Dubai is usually associated with tall skyscrapers and big city life. However, this city built in the desert also has another side: sandy beaches and the long coastline of the Arabian Gulf, which attracts millions of holidaymakers from all over the world. On the beaches of Dubai, you can relax on a sun lounger, on a blanket or in private beach clubs. On the waters of the Persian Gulf, you can ride a jet ski or a sports JetCar.
The waters of the Arabian Gulf are not only hot and ideal for holiday swimming, but also home to a rich and diverse marine life. This may lead us to ask ourselves: are there sharks in Dubai? These blood-curdling, often unjustly feared marine animals swim in the waters near many tourist destinations around the world. What is the situation with sharks in Dubai? Do sharks in Dubai pose a threat to tourists? Let's answer this very important question from the perspective of beachgoers and diving enthusiasts.
Yes, there are sharks in the Persian Gulf. Does this mean that you can encounter sharks in Dubai? Are there sharks in the sea in Dubai? Yes, but there is nothing to fear – sharks do not occur near the coast in Dubai, and if an incident occurs where a shark approaches the beach, it is quickly closed thanks to monitoring.
Sharks can be found in the Persian Gulf, the body of water on which Dubai is located. This may lead you to wonder if they pose any danger. Are sharks in Dubai a threat? No, sharks in Dubai do not pose a threat to tourists. The sharks in the Persian Gulf are mostly small species that are harmless to humans. They do not show aggression towards swimming tourists or divers – but most importantly, and this must be emphasised, they practically never come into contact with them.
If sharks live in Dubai, those interested in marine life may wonder about the species found in the waters of the Persian Gulf. What sharks can be found in Dubai? What species of sharks are found in Dubai? In Dubai, you can find sharks such as the reef shark, sandbar shark, hammerhead shark and whale shark. A total of 32 species of sharks live in the waters of the Arabian Gulf around the United Arab Emirates.
Are there dangerous sharks in Dubai? The waters of the Arabian Gulf are also home to dangerous species such as tiger sharks and bull sharks, but they avoid the shallow waters near the shore, which are hotter and more salty than the rest of the water body. Sharks have plenty of food in the Arabian Gulf, so they are not interested in approaching beaches and people.
Safe swimming in Dubai – sharks are not a threat to swimmers in Dubai, we already know that. However, it should not be forgotten that safety is not only about avoiding the threat of marine animals, but also about paying attention to proper behaviour on beaches and in the water. The waters of Dubai and the dangers associated with them are related to the occurrence of waves and the carelessness of tourists.
Always remember not to enter the water under the influence of alcohol. It is equally important to avoid being in the water when there are high waves. Most beaches in Dubai are guarded and monitored by professional lifeguards, but sometimes even warnings do not stop people from entering rough waters. Parents should always remember not to leave children unattended in the water. Are there safe places to swim in Dubai? Yes, most beaches in Dubai are patrolled and monitored for safety, and the medical and security infrastructure is of a high standard.
Sharks are fascinating animals. They inspire fear but also admiration for how nature looks on planet Earth. Fortunately, sharks do not occur near the coast in Dubai, so they are not dangerous to tourists. This does not mean that you cannot see sharks in Dubai! If you fancy diving with sharks in Dubai, you can do so at the Aquarium & Zoo in Dubai Mall! It's a real shark safari in Dubai. You can book this blood-curdling attraction here, and with a standard ticket you can see the sharks from outside the aquarium.
You can also admire sharks and other fish in Dubai in other places. At the Lost Chambers Aquarium in the famous Atlantis The Palm hotel, you will see sharks and thousands of other marine species. This is a great opportunity to see what the marine fauna of Dubai looks like. You can get to know Dubai's marine life up close during a close encounter with dolphins at Dolphin Bay Atlantis.
Marine life in the United Arab Emirates is not only thriving in Dubai. Diving trips are also organised in other emirates. In Abu Dhabi, you can visit SeaWorld Yas Island, a place where the whole family can have fun in eight unique themed kingdoms offering exciting rides, close encounters with sea creatures and inspiring entertainment. You can book these and other inspiring attractions in Dubai on the Two Continents website.
Looking for a place to stay during your holiday? Check out our accommodation in Dubai! Private apartments with breathtaking views of the city skyline are sure to give you a touch of luxury on your holiday. If you are interested in investing in flats, check out what our real estate agency in Dubai has to offer 🏠
Yes, there are 32 species of sharks in the waters of the Persian Gulf, such as the reef shark, sandbar shark, hammerhead shark and whale shark. There are also more dangerous species, such as tiger sharks and bull sharks, but they live far from the shallow coastal waters and do not interact with humans.
No, there is no need to be afraid of sharks in Dubai! These amazing marine animals pose no threat to beachgoers on holiday. The only contact with sharks in Dubai you can expect is to admire them.
No, sharks do not attack people in Dubai. There have been no reported cases of shark attacks on humans in Dubai, nor have there been any dangerous situations involving contact between these animals and people. The beaches in Dubai are monitored, so if sharks approach the shore, appropriate precautions are quickly implemented.
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