Abu Dhabi welcomes the grand opening of SeaWorld® Yas Island, the region’s premier Marine Life Theme Park, with a star-studded celebration. This groundbreaking park, a collaboration between Miral and SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, officially opens its doors to the public, inviting guests of all ages to embark on unforgettable adventures and immersive experiences. The highly anticipated opening ceremony on May 22 witnessed breathtaking performances by Emirati superstar Hussain Al Jassmi and Scottish recording artist Red, accompanied by a mesmerizing orchestra of 120 musicians. As the world’s foremost zoological organization, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment showcases its commitment to education and entertainment through this remarkable venture.
The inaugural event, held in the mesmerizing One Ocean realm, treated guests to an exclusive preview of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s awe-inspiring One Epic Ocean show. This captivating production, presented on a colossal 360-degree screen measuring 15 meters tall and 218 meters wide, employed state-of-the-art spatial audio and multimedia to bring the ocean’s wonders to life. The performance commenced with young marine enthusiasts commanding the stage, triggering a breathtaking sound and light display, highlighted by a swirling vortex illuminating the One Ocean globe. Symbolizing the profound connection between humanity and the ocean, this pivotal moment marked the official opening of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and left the audience spellbound. Following this spectacle, guests were enthralled by orchestral performances and Red’s musical talents, culminating in a dedicated song for SeaWorld Abu Dhabi sung by the esteemed Hussain Al Jassmi. As a stunning finale, silver three-dimensional figures representing marine animals soared across the stage, beckoning attendees to embark on their first exploration of the newly unveiled park.
The illustrious event boasted the presence of H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral, alongside Scott Ross, Chairman of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, and Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral. Distinguished guests included H.E. Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Chairman of the Department of Community Development, as well as government officials, ambassadors, and chargé d’affaires from various countries, including the USA, Japan, Singapore, and Belgium.
H.E. Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Today marks a great milestone for Abu Dhabi as we open SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, a landmark attraction that is unparalleled in the region and the world on every level. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi represents the next generation of theme parks, joining the world-class experiences on Yas Island, further positioning it as a top global destination, contributing to the growth of Abu Dhabi’s tourism vision. The Park will also play a key role in promoting environmental awareness and protecting marine life in Abu Dhabi, the UAE. The wider region, undoubtedly inspiring guests to care for and protect our precious marine life for years.” Al Mubarak also emphasized the joint commitment between Miral and SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment to uphold the highest animal care and welfare standards while creating an unparalleled knowledge hub.
Spanning five indoor levels and encompassing 183,000 square meters, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi weaves a captivating narrative through its One Ocean story, taking visitors on a seamless journey of discovery across eight immersive realms. At SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, families can partake in unique and interactive animal encounters, witnessing firsthand the wonders of dolphins, sharks, sea turtles, and many other marine creatures. The park also offers an array of thrilling rides, fascinating attractions, and remarkable dining and shopping experiences, ensuring there is something for everyone.
Scott Ross, Chairman of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, expressed his delight at the park’s opening, declaring, “SeaWorld Abu Dhabi marks a significant chapter for SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment as our first park outside of the United States. We are privileged to celebrate this highly anticipated moment alongside our esteemed partners at Miral. Through years of collaboration and innovation, we have brought to life the extraordinary SeaWorld Abu Dhabi Marine Life Theme Park, combining SeaWorld’s extensive experience in animal welfare and marine conservation with Miral’s expertise in developing world-class destinations. This next-generation SeaWorld experience is unparalleled and will undoubtedly amaze guests. We are sincerely proud to inspire their commitment to marine conservation for years to come.”
Each realm within SeaWorld Abu Dhabi offers a unique and meticulously designed marine environment, transporting guests to various locations across the globe. The One Ocean realm lies at the park’s heart, sharing the captivating One Ocean story through immersive media experiences. It is also home to the Animal Care Center and serves as a gateway to the other realms. The Abu Dhabi Ocean realm allows visitors to explore the fascinating marine life of the Arabian Gulf. At the same time, Rocky Point presents a hidden cove inspired by the Pacific Northwest of the USA, where sea lions and harbour seals delight guests. The Tropical Ocean realm features a vibrant rainforest and a stunning blue lagoon inhabited by dolphins, flamingos, fish, and birds. In the MicroOcean realm, families can delve into the world of plankton and discover the significance of even the smallest creatures. The Endless Ocean realm showcases the world’s largest multi-species marine life aquarium, boasting over 68,000 marine animals and an astounding 25 million litres of water. Lastly, the Polar Ocean realms of the Arctic and Antarctica offer guests the opportunity to marvel at icy seascapes and gain insights into the unique behaviours of polar species.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi provides ten up-close animal encounters and over 100 animal experiences and presentations, offering guests an unparalleled educational experience focused on the characteristics and behaviours of captivating marine animals.
The park also features more than 15 interactive rides and experiences designed to transport guests on a mesmerizing journey beneath the waves. From the Manta Coaster in the Tropical Ocean realm to the Hypersphere 360o in the Arctic Realm of the Polar Ocean, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi promises adrenaline-fueled excitement for thrill-seekers. Additionally, a range of family-friendly rides awaits in the MicroOcean realm, ensuring something enjoyable for guests of all ages at this Marine Life Theme Park.
Entertainment awaits visitors at every turn within SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, with over 20 live characters and performances throughout the day. The park offers 18 dining experiences, catering to all tastes and preferences, and is also home to 13 retail outlets where guests can find unique souvenirs and merchandise to commemorate their visit.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi proudly announces its recent certification by Global Humane, the international brand of American Humane and the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare. This certification makes SeaWorld Abu Dhabi the first facility in the MENA region to achieve such recognition.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi adds to the ever-growing portfolio of Yas Island’s acclaimed theme parks and attractions, including Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, and CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi. As one of the world’s fastest-growing leisure destinations, Yas Island continues to cement its status as a top-tier global destination for entertainment and leisure.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.seaworldabudhabi.com.
Written by: Stephen Morton