Arab News Japan

DUBAI: SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi is the region’s first marine life theme park, which largely relies on the theme of ‘One Ocean,’ which uncovers the interconnectivity between life on earth and the ocean, inspiring a deep commitment to conserving the planet.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi delivers immersive family-friendly experiences through eight uniquely themed realms, featuring up-close animal encounters, rides, entertainment, as well as dining and shopping experiences.

SeaWorld’s Vice President for Global Development John Linn explained that the park features all-natural plants and trees in animal habitats, to ensure that the environment does not differ to their natural habitat.

According to a statement from SeaWorld, the park is committed to providing the highest standard of animal welfare based on best practices and standards set by internationally recognized animal welfare organizations.

“Everything is sustainable. Every step ensures the safety of the animals and their environment first,” Linn said, when asked about the theme park’s sustainability initiative. 

He explained that creatures from the Arabian Gulf also had a habitat at the park, with local fish, sea snakes and more. 

“The goal of the park is to rescue, rehabilitate and return animals to their natural habitats,” Linn said.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is the first facility in the MENA region to be certified by Global Humane.   Representing the next generation of zoological care, the animal habitats at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi have been custom designed using a welfare-focused approach, including the technology used at the park.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is also home to the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center at Yas Island, the first-of-its-kind dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation and return center in the region serving as an advanced marine science knowledge hub and a key contributor to marine life conservation. Building on SeaWorld’s legacy of being one of the largest marine animal rescue organizations in the world, the center aims to bring SeaWorld’s nearly 60 years of experience and knowledge in animal care, rescue, rehabilitation and conservation to the UAE and wider region.

Linn added that SeaWorld has plans for expansion and is always looking for new opportunities. 

The theme park was developed by Miral, an Abu Dhabi-based company, in partnership with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment and is the first new SeaWorld Park in 30 years and the first outside the US.