Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading curator of magnetic experiences, in partnership with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, announced significant progress on the construction of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, the next generation of marine life theme parks and Yas Island’s latest mega-development.
The marine-life park, which is set to feature the world’s largest marine aquarium and the new Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Center, is currently 64 percent complete. Once complete, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will contain 25 million liters of water and will house 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.
On track for completion in 2022, major construction milestones include the completion of the primary steel erection and near finalization 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. Spanning the floor area of 183,000 square meters, 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.
Building off SeaWorld’s extensive research and rescue expertise, the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Center 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 center 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 Center 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.
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral said: “We are delighted to be partnering with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment in developing this next generation marine life park, which is set to feature the world’s largest marine aquarium and the UAE’s first dedicated research center to study and care for animals. This is another major addition to Yas Island’s existing immersive experiences and attractions, and a testament to achieving our vision of positioning the island as a top global tourism destination for residents and visitors alike.”
Marc Swanson, CEO of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, said: “We are honored 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 Center further expand SeaWorld’s positive global impact with the vitally important marine life conservation efforts in the region.”
