The destination reinforces its position as a leader in animal care.
Dubai: Atlantis Dubai has renewed its accreditation from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), reaffirming its commitment to maintaining world-class standards in animal care, conservation, and education.
First awarded in March 2020, Atlantis Dubai continues to hold its distinction as the region’s first and longest-standing AZA-accredited facility. The achievement places it among an elite network of 254 accredited institutions worldwide, with just 24 located outside the United States.
Earning AZA accreditation involves a meticulous and demanding process, with facilities evaluated extensively across all operational areas.
Atlantis Dubai completed a detailed application process, followed by a multi-day on-site inspection conducted by independent zoological experts. Every aspect of the destination was thoroughly evaluated, including animal care and welfare, veterinary services, staff training, educational programmes, conservation initiatives, financial stability, risk management, governance, and guest experience.
The process culminated in a formal review and interview with AZA’s Accreditation Commission, which granted the renewal after confirming that the destination continues to meet the highest international standards.
Backed by conservation efforts
A key factor behind the renewed accreditation is Atlantis Dubai’s expanding portfolio of conservation and research initiatives under the Atlantis Atlas Project.
Over the past five years, the destination has contributed more than $500,000 to over 30 projects across the region. Its marine research efforts include extensive dolphin surveys in Dubai waters, covering more than 12,000 kilometres and recording 52 cetacean sightings.
In addition, sharks and rays have been tagged to support scientific research, while 57 square metres of artificial coral reef structures have been installed to help enhance marine biodiversity.
In addition, Atlantis Dubai’s breeding and release programmes have further strengthened its conservation credentials. Several species of sharks and rays — including six classified as threatened in the wild — have been successfully bred at the facility. A total of 73 Arabian carpet sharks and 17 honeycomb stingrays have also been released into their natural habitat.
Maintaining high standards
Atlantis Dubai is home to more than 65,000 marine animals spanning over 285 species, all cared for by a team of more than 100 animal care specialists and a dedicated veterinary unit.
Animal wellbeing programmes are centred on tailored nutrition, advanced veterinary care, and behavioural enrichment, with habitats continuously enhanced to closely replicate natural environments.
In addition, the team delivers 36,000 hours of training each year through positive reinforcement methods.
What’s next
Atlantis Dubai is set to continue enhancing its animal habitats and guest experiences as part of its long-term sustainability strategy.
Recent upgrades — including improvements to dolphin lagoons and the redesigned Lost World Aquarium — signal an ongoing commitment to innovation that benefits both animals and visitors.
“Maintaining our AZA accreditation is a major achievement and reflects the passion and expertise of our entire team,” said Kelly Timmins, Executive Director of Sustainability and Marine Animal Operations.
She added, “We are committed to leading the way in modern zoological practices, upholding the highest standards of animal wellbeing, and contributing to meaningful conservation outcomes both locally and globally. We look forward to continuing to inspire our guests and connect them with the natural world through impactful and educational experiences.”
With its global accreditation renewed, Atlantis Dubai is poised to expand its impact through continuous innovation, strategic investment, and international collaboration, while setting new standards and delivering enriching experiences.
