Imagine this. You walk into the Burj Al Arab. You are escorted to what looks like a golden submarine.
You “board” it, and for three minutes, you are on a simulated journey under the sea. The doors open. You have arrived at Al Mahara.
As a Dubai expert, I’ve seen many “themed” restaurants. Al Mahara is different. It’s not a theme. It’s an experience.
This is the famous “underwater” restaurant at the Burj Al Arab. But what is it really like to eat here? Is the food as good as the view?
Here is my 2025 review of Al Mahara.
The Vibe: You’re Inside an Aquarium
Let’s be clear. You are not under the ocean. The restaurant is on the ground floor. But the entire center of the restaurant is one giant, floor-to-ceiling aquarium. It holds over 260,000 gallons of water.
The tables are arranged around this massive, glowing blue centerpiece. You will see sharks, stingrays, and thousands of colorful fish swim past your table while you eat.
It’s magical. It’s quiet. The light from the tank makes the whole room glow. It is maybe the most romantic restaurant setting in all of Dubai.
Pro Tip: You MUST request a table “next to the glass” when you book. These are the best seats.
The Food: The Best Seafood in the City
The name “Al Mahara” means “The Oyster Shell.” So, it’s no surprise this is a seafood restaurant.
The quality is incredible. The menu focuses on fresh, European-style seafood. You’ll find things like:
- King Crab
- Oysters
- Turbot
- Wagyu Beef (for those who don’t want fish)
I highly recommend the “Signature Tasting Menu.” It’s a 5 or 6-course journey of the chef’s best creations.
The food is expensive, but it lives up to the location. It’s delicate, fresh, and beautifully presented. This is where you celebrate a major life event. I’ve seen guests celebrating everything from an engagement to a successful investment opportunity in the city.
The Price: What Does Al Mahara Cost in 2025?
This is a “bucket list” meal. The prices are very high, even for Dubai. You are paying for the aquarium, the service, and the Burj Al Arab name.
- Lunch (Set Menu): Around AED 700 – 800 ($190 – $220 USD) per person.
- Dinner (Tasting Menu): Expect to pay AED 1,200 – 1,500 ($325 – $410 USD) per person.
- Minimum Spend: Sometimes, there is a minimum spend per person, especially for a window table.
This price does not include drinks. A bottle of wine can be very expensive. This is a “once in a lifetime” kind of meal.
The Dress Code: Smart Elegant (No Exceptions)
Just like Al Muntaha, you must dress for the occasion. Arriving in a luxury car rental only to be turned away for your clothes is an awful feeling.
The dress code is “Smart Elegant.”
- For Men: Collared shirt (button-down or polo), smart trousers, and closed-toe shoes. A jacket is recommended for dinner. No trainers, no shorts, no t-shirts.
- For Women: An elegant dress, a smart skirt and blouse, or stylish trousers.
They are very strict about this. You are in the Burj Al Arab.
My Honest Verdict: Is It Worth It?
This is a tough one. The food is excellent. But the real star is the aquarium. Is it a bit of a gimmick? Yes. Is it one of the coolest, most unforgettable dining experiences you will ever have? Also, yes.
If you are celebrating a major anniversary or a honeymoon, it is 100% worth it. The atmosphere is something you will never forget.
While Al Mahara is a highlight, booking your entire stay requires planning. You can see how this restaurant fits into the hotel’s full experience in our Burj Al Arab Jumeirah suite price and booking guide.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah suite price and booking guide
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is Al Mahara really underwater?
No, it is not underwater. It is a world-class restaurant built around a massive, floor-to-ceiling aquarium. It just feels like you are dining underwater. - Can I go to Al Mahara just for a drink?
No. Al Mahara is a fine-dining restaurant and requires a full dining reservation. You cannot just visit the bar. - What is the dress code for Al Mahara?
The dress code is “Smart Elegant.” Men must wear a collared shirt, long trousers, and closed shoes. No shorts, t-shirts, or trainers are allowed.
