UAE: Construction of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi on Yas Island 40 Percent Completed

On Yas Island, Abu Dhabi‘s leisure and entertainment hub, the new SeaWorld Abu Dhabi maritime theme park is currently under construction (cf. EAP news of 13 Dec 2016). Miral Asset Management now announced that construction works reached over 40 percent completion. On a total area of around 183,000 square metres the park will offer visitors six distinct realms on multiple levels, which will tell a unified story of “One Ocean“. Such as all SeaWorld parks, the Abu Dhabi destination will also be dedicated to the three main issues of marine research, conservation and animal welfare. The operators aim at providing education and learning opportunities for visitors and at creating awareness for the three named topics. Additionally, the park will include a research center, which will help scientists and marine conservationists to understand and protect the region’s marine life.

Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of Miral, says: “[…] We are proud to have partnered with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment on this incredible project, which brings more than 55 years of expertise in marine conservation and world class marine animal care to Yas Island.“ Marc Swanson, interim Chief Executive Officer of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, adds: “SeaWorld Abu Dhabi represents the first new SeaWorld park in over 30 years and the first park outside of North America. We're looking forward to creating unforgettable experiences for our guests, educating them about some of the planet's most majestic marine animals, and continuing our world class animal care, conservation and advocacy work.“

The completion of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is expected for late 2022. (eap)