Another one of Abu Dhabi’s major tourist draws on Yas Island is 64 percent completed, according to developer Miral and SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment.
On track for completion in 2022, recent major construction milestones include the completion of the primary steel erection and near finalisation of the envelope enclosure of the marine-life park. Additionally, the structure’s façade is currently in progress, as well as over 70 percent of the acrylic panels installed across the park.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, once complete, is set to be home to the world’s largest and most expansive marine-life aquarium, containing 25 million litres of water and housing more than 68,000 marine animals, including sharks, schools of fish, manta rays and sea turtles. A main focal view of the aquarium will present visitors with the ‘Endless Vista’, an impressive 20m tall vertical window across multiple levels revealing stunning aquatic scenes.
Building off SeaWorld’s extensive research and rescue expertise, the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Centre will act as an advanced knowledge hub focusing on indigenous Gulf and marine life ecosystems. The facility will be located adjacent to the aquarium and theme park, and will be the first dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation and return centre in the UAE.
It will integrate with SeaWorld’s ongoing efforts related to research, rescue, conservation, and education. Accessible to visitors by reservation, the Research and Rescue Centre will also demonstrate the work from resident scientists and researchers, enriching guests’ knowledge of aquatic animals, and offering tailored educational learning programs for both local and international schools and touring groups.
Marc Swanson, CEO of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, said: “We are honoured to partner with Miral to bring SeaWorld’s unforgettable guest experiences and our important mission to Yas Island and the region. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi joins our North American parks in our mission and commitment to conservation efforts worldwide. We have hundreds of professionals focused on animal care, rescue and rehabilitation, conservation education, habitat protection, and species research and we are excited to see the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Centre further expand SeaWorld’s positive global impact with the vitally important marine life conservation efforts in the region.”
Spanning the floor area of 183,000 square meters (m2), across five indoor levels, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s design leverages SeaWorld’s more than 55 years of experience in marine research, conservation, and animal welfare.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi further supports Miral’s vision to position Yas Island as one of the top global tourist destinations. Its unique portfolio of attractions and experiences on the island includes many world firsts and record-breaking attractions; Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi and CLYMB Abu Dhabi.
In the USA and Australia SeaWorld has experienced negative publicity over the last three years in particular and visitor numbers and down. The opening on Yas Island could not come at a better time.
That said, SeaWorld self-funds the largest marine animal rescue and rehabilitation programme in the world and spends millions of dollars in conservation funding annually. Without SeaWorld, it is doubtful anyone else would be stepping up to do the same.
