Sharjah24: The Sharjah Aquarium (SA), which opened in 2008, as the first and largest governmental educational center for marine creatures in the UAE, continues its efforts to preserve the marine environment.

By wandering among the corridors of the aquarium and its 21 basins, the visitors learn about more than 100 species of marine life. The Sharjah Aquarium continues to raise awareness about the most prominent behaviors and risks that threaten the marine environment, highlighting the effective role of individuals in preserving it.

Protecting the marine environment tops the priorities of the Sharjah Aquarium, as it periodically organises a series of direct and virtual activities, events and workshops, part of which was implemented during the “Covid-19” pandemic, to spread environmental awareness and consolidate the concept of social responsibility among all members of society.

In response to its priorities in preserving the marine environment, in 2009 the Sharjah Museums Authority launched the first version of its social responsibility initiative “Because We Care”, Sharjah Aquarium is organizing an annual marine environment clean-up campaign which aims to raise environmental protection awareness and instill the values of preserving marine attractions. The campaign also aims to spread awareness about the dangers of marine pollution, which can result from the irresponsible behaviour of some individuals.

Manal Ataya, Director General of the Sharjah Museums Authority has highlighted the importance of the marine life as a major source of food for many peoples, stressing on its economic, strategic, and social significance, in addition to being a vital route for transportation, marine navigation and trade, especially in the Arab world.

Sharjah Aquarium, as an attractive tourist destination for visitors, contributes to raising awareness about marine pollution and promoting the concepts of preserving and sustaining the marine environment, through introductory, educational and entertaining tours for various members of society and tourists , in addition to launching many specialised programs.

The Sharjah Aquarium is located in the old Al Khan area opposite the Sharjah Maritime Museum, and it opens its doors to visitors from Monday to Saturday from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm, and from 2:00 pm to 8:00 pm on Friday; it closes on Sunday. Those wishing to have more details about visiting the aquarium and viewing its programs and activities can access the website https://www.sharjahmuseums.ae/ar-AE/Museums/Sharjah-Aquarium, or visit the authority’s website https://www.sharjahmuseums.ae.