When it opens in 2022, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will be the first orca-less SeaWorld theme park. However, while the iconic “Shamu” will be absent from the park, the marine life theme park will still feature up-close animal experiences, rides and a world-class aquarium.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will be SeaWorld’s first international theme park as well as the United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) first dedicated marine life research, rescue, rehabilitation-and-return center focused on the care and conservation of local marine life.
The park represents a partnership between SeaWorld and Miral Asset Management, the group behind many of Abu Dhabi’s tourist destinations.
SeaWorld president and CEO Joel Manby stated: “We are excited to announce our first international expansion and our partnership with Miral as we design a next generation SeaWorld that engages, educates and inspires, a blueprint brought to life in Abu Dhabi. This new park, combined with a dedicated research, rescue, rehabilitation and return facility focused on marine life care and conservation, continues SeaWorld’s legacy of marine life rescue that spans more than 50 years.”
“This project presents an opportunity for collaboration and greater understanding of how species have adapted to the region’s unique marine environment, and to inspire the next generation of visitors, conservationists and animal care experts.”
According to a SeaWorld news release, the theme park’s research, rescue, rehabilitation-and-return center on Yas Island will be the “first of its kind in the country, providing a state-of-the-art environment for local and global researchers, scientists and marine conservationists to assist them to better understand and learn from the region’s marine life habitats and conditions.”
Planned to open before the theme park, the facility will provide an “important resource for UAE nationals and residents looking to develop or enhance expertise in marine life sciences and will serve as a hub for collaboration with local and international environmental organizations and projects.”
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi expands Miral’s portfolio on Yas Island, which is set to double its visitors to 48 million by the time SeaWorld Abu Dhabi opens in 2022.
Yas Island features other properties such as the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, and, opening in 2018, the recently announced Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi and Clymb. It also offers a plethora of retail, dining, sporting and entertainment venues.
To learn more, visit the SeaWorld Abu Dhabi website.
What do you think of SeaWorld’s plans for its first international park? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.
Recent Discussion