ABU DHABI: Abu Dhabi’s Crown Prince Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al-Nahyan took part in the opening of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, a next-generation marine theme park, at Yas Island on Saturday.

Sheikh Khaled was given a tour of the theme park and was briefed on its facilities, which span five indoor levels with a total area of approximately 183,000 square meters, Emirates News Agency reported. He also visited the Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue, the UAE’s first dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation and return center, where he reviewed programs aimed at conserving the Arabian Gulf’s marine wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems. 

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, which was built by property developer Miral in partnership with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, opens to the public on Tuesday.

“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,” Miral Chairman Mohamed Khalifa Al-Mubarak said. 

“The park will also play a key role in promoting environmental awareness and protecting marine life in Abu Dhabi, the UAE and the wider region, undoubtedly inspiring guests to care for and protect our precious marine life for years to come. 

“Together, with our partner, SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, we are proud to be pushing the limits of science and conservation to create a truly unparalleled knowledge hub, demonstrating our joint commitment to upholding the highest standards of animal care and welfare.”

Scott Ross, chairman of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, added: “As the first SeaWorld park to open outside of the US, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi marks a significant chapter for SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment. It is with great privilege we celebrate this highly-anticipated grand opening alongside our valued partners at Miral. 

“The extraordinary SeaWorld Abu Dhabi Marine Life Theme Park was born through years of collaboration and innovation, combining SeaWorld’s nearly 60 years of experience in animal welfare and commitment to marine conservation with Miral’s unprecedented track record as a leading developer of world-class destinations. 

“Together, we have created a state-of-the-art marine life theme park unlike anything the world has seen to date, truly representing a next generation SeaWorld experience. We have no doubt that guests will be amazed with all that SeaWorld Abu Dhabi has to offer and we are sincerely proud to play our part in inspiring their commitment to marine conservation for years to come.”