Beyond the Glass: Can Aquarium Diving Foster Emotional Connections with Elasmobranchs and the Ocean and Inspire Environmental Care?

Human activities significantly contribute to the biodiversity crisis, yet wildlife tourism can promote appreciation for animals and encourage conservation. This study assessed the impact of diving and snorkeling programs at Atlantis Dubai on tourists’ emotional connections with marine life and their conservation attitudes and pro-environmental behavioral intentions. In 2023 and 2024, 346 participants were surveyed before (n = 172) and after (n = 174) their experiences diving and snorkeling with elasmobranchs. Results indicated a notable increase in positive feelings toward sharks and rays, strengthening connections and respect for these creatures. The program positively influenced attitude toward sharks, making participants more inclined to support their protection and foster a deeper connection with the ocean. Although participants’ willingness to recycle improved, overall conservation attitudes and willingness to engage in broader pro-environmental behaviors showed minor change. However, the heightened positive emotions towards sharks resulted in improved perceptions of these animals, stronger conservation attitudes, and a commitment to environmental sustainability. A deeper connection with the ocean reduced fear of sharks. This research suggests that wildlife tourism can facilitate emotional connections with marine life, potentially inspiring conservation action and highlighting the need for targeted strategies to transform these emotional bonds into lasting pro-environmental behaviors.