Paul Hamilton

Paul Robert Hamilton is a New Zealand-born marine biologist and one of the most accomplished aquarium builders in the world, with over 25 years of experience across the global attractions industry.

Over the course of his career, Paul has built 14 aquariums across the world, including in New Zealand, Australia, China, Kazakhstan, and Russia. His expertise spans the full lifecycle of worldclass aquatic attractions — from concept and construction to operations, conservation, and guest experience.

In 2018, Paul joined The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi project from the ground up, overseeing its development into the largest aquarium in the Middle East — home to 46,000 animals across 10 immersive zones. He also oversees The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi, the capital's only butterfly garden and one of the newest and most unique attractions at Al Qana. Since opening in 2021, both attractions have become landmark destinations for families, nature enthusiasts, and conservation advocates across the UAE.

Under Paul’s leadership, The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi established a partnership with the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD), building one of the region’s most active wildlife rescue and rehabilitation programs. The aquarium is also home to the UAE’s only African Manatees, supported by the Mohammed Bin Zayed Species Conservation Fund. Under his tenure, The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi also secured the support of National Geographic, making it the only aquarium in the region working directly with the global conservation organisation.

In 2024, Paul led the successful bid for Abu Dhabi to host the International Aquarium Congress in 2030 — marking the first time the prestigious event will be held in the Middle East.

In 2026, Paul spearheaded the opening of The Butterfly Gardens Abu Dhabi — the capital’s only butterfly garden — which has quickly become one of Abu Dhabi’s most talked-about new attractions of the year.

A passionate advocate for storytelling through conservation, Paul continues to push the boundaries of what a modern aquarium can achieve — combining innovation, education, and wildlife protection at a world-class level.