Surf Abu Dhabi's Ryan Watkins on the sport's rising popularity in the region
Images: Supplied
From February 14-16, Surf Abu Dhabi made history by hosting the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro, the inaugural World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour event in the UAE. This landmark competition not only introduced professional surfing to a new audience but also solidified Abu Dhabi's position as a global sporting and adventure tourism destination.
Here, we speak to Ryan Watkins, general manager of Surf Abu Dhabi, who has been instrumental in shaping the region's surfing landscape. Under his leadership,
In this conversation, Watkins reflects on the significance of the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro, its impact on Abu Dhabi's tourism, economy, and sporting culture, and the future of
Ryan Watkins/ Image courtesy: Thiago Diz
Surf Abu Dhabi hosted the inaugural World Surf League Championship Tour event, the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro, in February 2025. How significant was this event for both Surf Abu Dhabi and the broader tourism and entertainment landscape in Abu Dhabi?
The Surf Abu Dhabi Pro, the inaugural World Surf League Championship Tour event in the UAE, was a monumental occasion for both Surf Abu Dhabi and the region's tourism and entertainment landscape.
We were incredibly excited to unveil the energy of professional surfing to a new audience, igniting a passion for the sport within the UAE and broader Middle East, and offering a first-time experience for many.
The event also went beyond just showcasing world-class surfing; it was about inspiring future generations of surfers and demonstrating Abu Dhabi's ability to host premier global events.
The impact extended beyond the waves, with hundreds of athletes, coaches, and event staff requiring accommodations and utilizing local services, making the economic impact substantial.
This influx of international visitors, many experiencing the Middle East for the first time, further strengthened Abu Dhabi's appeal as a diverse and dynamic destination.
The excitement was palpable, with hundreds attending the first day of practice, highlighting the immediate and long-term potential of this landmark event.
Taj_Lindblad/ Image courtesy: Run Amuck Photography
Beyond the immediate excitement of the event, what are your projections for the economic impact of the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro on the local tourism industry? How did it affect hospitality, retail, and other sectors?
The Surf Abu Dhabi Pro significantly boosted the local tourism economy, attracting international visitors and driving revenue across multiple sectors. Increased demand for hospitality services, including hotels and restaurants, along with retail sales and transportation utilisation, contributed to this economic upswing.
With a large number of event inquiries coming from outside the UAE and Surf Abu Dhabi's existing user base already comprising 75 per cent of international visitors, this event further solidified Abu Dhabi's position as a global destination, attracting new tourists and fostering long-term growth within the local tourism industry.
As a key part of Abu Dhabi's drive to position itself as a global sporting destination, what strategic role did Surf Abu Dhabi play in the city's broader tourism and entertainment vision?
Surf Abu Dhabi played a key strategic role in solidifying Abu Dhabi's position as a premier global sporting destination.
By hosting the World Surf League Championship Tour, featuring the world's top surfers, Surf Abu Dhabi added another dimension to the city's already impressive portfolio of international sporting events, which includes Formula 1, golf, tennis, and triathlons. This further diversified Abu Dhabi's tourism offerings, attracting a new segment of visitors and showcasing the region's ability to host world-class competitions.
This event elevated Abu Dhabi to a prominent position within the global surfing landscape, alongside iconic destinations like Hawaii and Australia. It was a source of immense pride and signified Abu Dhabi's commitment to innovation and its emergence as a dynamic hub for sports, tourism, and entertainment.
The Middle East has traditionally not been a hotspot for surfing, so how important was the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro for expanding the popularity and growth of the surf industry in the region?
The Surf Abu Dhabi Pro was pivotal for expanding the surf industry's presence in the Middle East. By showcasing the world's best surfers in a region not traditionally associated with the sport, the event generated significant interest and awareness, inspiring potential new surfers.
Beyond the competition itself, Surf Abu Dhabi's commitment to developing local talent through coaching programs and grassroots initiatives, including working with Emirati surfers towards Olympic aspirations, further fueled the growth of surfing within the region.
Luke_Wyler/ Image courtesy: Run Amuck Photography
Can you elaborate on the state-of-the-art wave technology at Surf Abu Dhabi? How does this innovation set the venue apart from other surfing destinations around the world, and what role did it play in the development of surfing as a sport in the Middle East?
Surf Abu Dhabi's state-of-the-art wave technology, powered by Kelly Slater's WaveCo, set it apart as a truly world-class surfing destination. This innovative system produces what is widely considered the best man-made wave globally, holding multiple Guinness World Records, including the longest man-made wave and largest artificial wave pool.
This cutting-edge technology was crucial for developing surfing in the Middle East, providing a consistent and controlled environment for surfers of all levels, from beginners learning on smaller waves to professionals practicing high-performance manoeuvres on fast, barreling waves. This accessibility and the quality of the waves were key to fostering a vibrant surf culture and nurturing future talent within the region.
Modon's strategy with Hudayriyat Island is to bring the world's leading sporting facilities to the region, and this was truly the case with Surf Abu Dhabi.
With the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro attracting a global audience, what were the key factors that made the Middle East a growing market for international sporting events like surfing? How did Surf Abu Dhabi cater to international competitors and fans?
Several key factors contributed to the Middle East's emergence as a growing market for international sporting events like surfing. The region's investment in world-class infrastructure, coupled with a desire to diversify tourism offerings and engage a global audience, created an attractive environment for hosting major competitions. Surf Abu Dhabi, as a state-of-the-art facility designed for events of this scale, exemplified this commitment.
While the local surf community was still developing, the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro provided a catalyst for growth, attracting international competitors and fans. By offering a premium experience, both in terms of wave quality and overall facilities, Surf Abu Dhabi catered to the needs of elite athletes and created a memorable experience for fans from around the world.
What were some of the most significant challenges you faced in developing Surf Abu Dhabi, particularly in establishing it as a major destination for adventure and sports tourism, and how did you overcome them?
One of the key opportunities we addressed in developing Surf Abu Dhabi was establishing a thriving surf community in a region where surfing wasn't traditionally prevalent. We recognised this as a chance to introduce the sport to a new audience and cultivate a passion for surfing.
By offering a world-class facility with unparalleled wave technology and expert instruction, we were able to attract both seasoned surfers and beginners, fostering a growing and enthusiastic surf community.
Another area of focus was positioning Abu Dhabi as a compelling surf destination alongside established global surf locales. We saw a positive response, with surfers increasingly choosing Abu Dhabi as a prime surf trip destination, drawn by the quality of the waves and the overall experience. This demonstrated the growing appeal of Abu Dhabi as a hub for adventure and sports tourism.
Looking to the future, what other initiatives or events will Surf Abu Dhabi host to further solidify its position as a leading destination for sports tourism in the region, and how do you plan to continue evolving the surf experience?
We're developing a range of initiatives and events, including surf mastery retreats, festivals, and concerts, designed to enhance the surf experience, attract a wider audience, and showcase Abu Dhabi's vibrant culture and entertainment offerings.
While details are still under wraps, these future developments will build upon the success of the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro and contribute to the continued growth of surfing and sports tourism in the region.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time Out Abu Dhabi
15-05-2025
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
If you're looking to buy in Abu Dhabi this is everything you need to know
Thinking of getting your name on a title deed in the capital? You're not alone. People looking to buy in Abu Dhabi are multiplying, and the real estate market is in serious demand this year, with prices climbing thanks to limited supply, major infrastructure projects and a growing number of both local and global investors jumping on board. A new report from UAE-based brokerage Oia Properties has spotlighted the city's most promising neighbourhoods – and there's something for every kind of buyer, whether you're after the glitz of Yas Island or the eco-cred of Masdar City. So, which areas are the best places to buy in Abu Dhabi? Yas Island has long been a playground for thrill-seekers and leisure lovers and now it's adding another feather to its cap: Disney Theme Park Abu Dhabi. That alone would be enough to skyrocket interest, but combine it with the existing Ferrari World, Yas Marina Circuit and limited hotel availability and it's no surprise investors are snapping up properties for short-term rentals and impressive returns. Studios start at Dhs800,000, with prices averaging between Dhs1,500 to 2,100 per square foot and analysts give it a sky-high capital appreciation score of nine out of ten for 2025 and 2026. Just across the water, Al Reem Island is turning heads too. Thanks to Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) expanding its jurisdiction, this urban island is now fully open to investors of all nationalities, making it an appealing option for expats and families. With studio apartments starting at Dhs700,000 and strong rental demand, it boasts a capital appreciation outlook of eight out of ten, helped along by Etihad Rail developments and waterfront living. Over on Hudayriyat Island, luxury meets lifestyle in one of the city's most exciting up-and-coming communities. With eye-catching projects like Surf Abu Dhabi and the region's largest velodrome already in motion, buyers are flocking to Modon's newest neighbourhood. Properties here start at Dhs2 million for a one-bedroom, with values expected to rise significantly over the next year. Al Raha Beach, meanwhile, continues to offer solid value in an already well-established neighbourhood. With its waterfront setting and mature infrastructure, it attracts a steady stream of international buyers. Studio apartments start around Dhs1 million and the resale market remains strong, with a respectable seven out of ten growth forecast. Saadiyat Island still reigns as the capital's most luxurious enclave. Home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and soon welcoming new additions from luxury hospitality brands, it draws high-net-worth individuals from across the world. Studio prices start at Dhs1.3 million, with per-square-foot rates ranging from Dhs1,800 to a jaw-dropping Dhs3,400. Long-term investors looking for cultural cachet and solid growth can expect stable returns and a seven out of ten outlook. And it's not just the well-known districts making waves. Ghantoot is emerging from the shadows with the launch of 'Bayn' by ORA. Nestled between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the beachfront villas and green community design are already generating a buzz. Three-bedroom townhouses here start at Dhs2.7 million. Al Reef is also coming into its own, with its transition from leasehold to freehold making it a smart, accessible choice for first-time buyers. Studio apartments go for Dhs500,000 to 600,000 and its location near the airport, Yas Island and Al Raha adds to the appeal. Credit: Supplied Then there's Masdar City, a magnet for sustainability-minded professionals. As home to the Masdar Freezone and over 1,000 companies, it's an ideal live-work-play hub. Studios start at Dhs1 million and buyers are drawn in by cutting-edge design and flexible payment plans. Al Shamkha is gaining popularity too, especially among UAE nationals. With the handover of Aldar's Fay Al Reeman project set for late 2025, this villa-heavy suburb offers space and affordability, with studios starting at Dhs400,000. Zayed City rounds out the list as a future-forward district already seeing action with the early handover of Cordoba (Bloom Living Phase 1). It's part of Abu Dhabi's Plan 2030 and comes with promising infrastructure and buyer-friendly payment options, with one-bedroom apartments starting at Dhs600,000. In short, if you're looking to buy in Abu Dhabi, now's the time to strike. From glam island homes to emerging suburban gems, 2025's property picks are as diverse as they are rewarding. More happening in Abu Dhabi Abu Dhabi hotels are getting facial recognition check-in tech This is so cool Unmissable things to do in May in Abu Dhabi It's gonna be May It's official: Abu Dhabi Comedy Season is returning for a second edition with some huge names Wow, look at this line-up The 2025 concert line-up in Abu Dhabi just keeps getting better and better So many big names coming to the capital
Time Out Abu Dhabi
12-05-2025
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
This new Tuscan-style village in Abu Dhabi sold out in just 24 hours
Well, that didn't take long. A cool 378 townhouses and villas in the new Nawayef Village development on Hudayriyat Island have been snapped up in under 24 hours, racking up a tidy Dhs2 billion (US$544 million) in the process. Modon Holding, the developer behind the now-sold-out Nawayef Village, has confirmed that demand for this picturesque Tuscan-inspired gated community was through the roof. Think three-and-four-bedroom townhouses and five-bedroom twin villas, all wrapped up in Mediterranean charm, in a location that's quickly becoming Abu Dhabi's most sought-after lifestyle destination. If you didn't already know, Hudayriyat Island is having a moment. From its scenic cycling tracks (the new velodrome will open soon) and other first-class sports facilities (hello Surf Abu Dhabi) to beachfront dining, this stretch of coast is being reimagined as a luxury living hub – and Nawayef Village is one of the jewels in its crown. This new launch marks the first townhouses ever to go on sale on Hudayriyat and judging by the lightning-fast sell-out, there's a big appetite for family-friendly luxury on the island. Bill O'Regan, Group CEO of Modon, summed it up neatly: 'We're on a mission to reimagine urban living in Abu Dhabi.' Mission accomplished, it seems. The success of Nawayef Village is also a sign of where Abu Dhabi's property market is heading – upward, fast and with a firm eye on the kind of design-led, community-focused developments that modern buyers are clamouring for. Didn't get in on this one? Don't worry – Hudayriyat's full transformation is just getting started. More in Abu Dhabi… Everything happening in Abu Dhabi in 2025 From new openings to big events, this is shaping up to be quite a year It's official: Abu Dhabi Comedy Season is returning for a second edition with some huge names Wow, look at this line-up The 2025 concert line-up in Abu Dhabi just keeps getting better and better So many big names coming to the capital
Gulf Business
24-02-2025
- Gulf Business
Surf Abu Dhabi's Ryan Watkins on the sport's rising popularity in the region
Images: Supplied From February 14-16, Surf Abu Dhabi made history by hosting the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro, the inaugural World Surf League (WSL) Championship Tour event in the UAE. This landmark competition not only introduced professional surfing to a new audience but also solidified Abu Dhabi's position as a global sporting and adventure tourism destination. Here, we speak to Ryan Watkins, general manager of Surf Abu Dhabi, who has been instrumental in shaping the region's surfing landscape. Under his leadership, In this conversation, Watkins reflects on the significance of the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro, its impact on Abu Dhabi's tourism, economy, and sporting culture, and the future of Ryan Watkins/ Image courtesy: Thiago Diz Surf Abu Dhabi hosted the inaugural World Surf League Championship Tour event, the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro, in February 2025. How significant was this event for both Surf Abu Dhabi and the broader tourism and entertainment landscape in Abu Dhabi? The Surf Abu Dhabi Pro, the inaugural World Surf League Championship Tour event in the UAE, was a monumental occasion for both Surf Abu Dhabi and the region's tourism and entertainment landscape. We were incredibly excited to unveil the energy of professional surfing to a new audience, igniting a passion for the sport within the UAE and broader Middle East, and offering a first-time experience for many. The event also went beyond just showcasing world-class surfing; it was about inspiring future generations of surfers and demonstrating Abu Dhabi's ability to host premier global events. The impact extended beyond the waves, with hundreds of athletes, coaches, and event staff requiring accommodations and utilizing local services, making the economic impact substantial. This influx of international visitors, many experiencing the Middle East for the first time, further strengthened Abu Dhabi's appeal as a diverse and dynamic destination. The excitement was palpable, with hundreds attending the first day of practice, highlighting the immediate and long-term potential of this landmark event. Taj_Lindblad/ Image courtesy: Run Amuck Photography Beyond the immediate excitement of the event, what are your projections for the economic impact of the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro on the local tourism industry? How did it affect hospitality, retail, and other sectors? The Surf Abu Dhabi Pro significantly boosted the local tourism economy, attracting international visitors and driving revenue across multiple sectors. Increased demand for hospitality services, including hotels and restaurants, along with retail sales and transportation utilisation, contributed to this economic upswing. With a large number of event inquiries coming from outside the UAE and Surf Abu Dhabi's existing user base already comprising 75 per cent of international visitors, this event further solidified Abu Dhabi's position as a global destination, attracting new tourists and fostering long-term growth within the local tourism industry. As a key part of Abu Dhabi's drive to position itself as a global sporting destination, what strategic role did Surf Abu Dhabi play in the city's broader tourism and entertainment vision? Surf Abu Dhabi played a key strategic role in solidifying Abu Dhabi's position as a premier global sporting destination. By hosting the World Surf League Championship Tour, featuring the world's top surfers, Surf Abu Dhabi added another dimension to the city's already impressive portfolio of international sporting events, which includes Formula 1, golf, tennis, and triathlons. This further diversified Abu Dhabi's tourism offerings, attracting a new segment of visitors and showcasing the region's ability to host world-class competitions. This event elevated Abu Dhabi to a prominent position within the global surfing landscape, alongside iconic destinations like Hawaii and Australia. It was a source of immense pride and signified Abu Dhabi's commitment to innovation and its emergence as a dynamic hub for sports, tourism, and entertainment. The Middle East has traditionally not been a hotspot for surfing, so how important was the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro for expanding the popularity and growth of the surf industry in the region? The Surf Abu Dhabi Pro was pivotal for expanding the surf industry's presence in the Middle East. By showcasing the world's best surfers in a region not traditionally associated with the sport, the event generated significant interest and awareness, inspiring potential new surfers. Beyond the competition itself, Surf Abu Dhabi's commitment to developing local talent through coaching programs and grassroots initiatives, including working with Emirati surfers towards Olympic aspirations, further fueled the growth of surfing within the region. Luke_Wyler/ Image courtesy: Run Amuck Photography Can you elaborate on the state-of-the-art wave technology at Surf Abu Dhabi? How does this innovation set the venue apart from other surfing destinations around the world, and what role did it play in the development of surfing as a sport in the Middle East? Surf Abu Dhabi's state-of-the-art wave technology, powered by Kelly Slater's WaveCo, set it apart as a truly world-class surfing destination. This innovative system produces what is widely considered the best man-made wave globally, holding multiple Guinness World Records, including the longest man-made wave and largest artificial wave pool. This cutting-edge technology was crucial for developing surfing in the Middle East, providing a consistent and controlled environment for surfers of all levels, from beginners learning on smaller waves to professionals practicing high-performance manoeuvres on fast, barreling waves. This accessibility and the quality of the waves were key to fostering a vibrant surf culture and nurturing future talent within the region. Modon's strategy with Hudayriyat Island is to bring the world's leading sporting facilities to the region, and this was truly the case with Surf Abu Dhabi. With the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro attracting a global audience, what were the key factors that made the Middle East a growing market for international sporting events like surfing? How did Surf Abu Dhabi cater to international competitors and fans? Several key factors contributed to the Middle East's emergence as a growing market for international sporting events like surfing. The region's investment in world-class infrastructure, coupled with a desire to diversify tourism offerings and engage a global audience, created an attractive environment for hosting major competitions. Surf Abu Dhabi, as a state-of-the-art facility designed for events of this scale, exemplified this commitment. While the local surf community was still developing, the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro provided a catalyst for growth, attracting international competitors and fans. By offering a premium experience, both in terms of wave quality and overall facilities, Surf Abu Dhabi catered to the needs of elite athletes and created a memorable experience for fans from around the world. What were some of the most significant challenges you faced in developing Surf Abu Dhabi, particularly in establishing it as a major destination for adventure and sports tourism, and how did you overcome them? One of the key opportunities we addressed in developing Surf Abu Dhabi was establishing a thriving surf community in a region where surfing wasn't traditionally prevalent. We recognised this as a chance to introduce the sport to a new audience and cultivate a passion for surfing. By offering a world-class facility with unparalleled wave technology and expert instruction, we were able to attract both seasoned surfers and beginners, fostering a growing and enthusiastic surf community. Another area of focus was positioning Abu Dhabi as a compelling surf destination alongside established global surf locales. We saw a positive response, with surfers increasingly choosing Abu Dhabi as a prime surf trip destination, drawn by the quality of the waves and the overall experience. This demonstrated the growing appeal of Abu Dhabi as a hub for adventure and sports tourism. Looking to the future, what other initiatives or events will Surf Abu Dhabi host to further solidify its position as a leading destination for sports tourism in the region, and how do you plan to continue evolving the surf experience? We're developing a range of initiatives and events, including surf mastery retreats, festivals, and concerts, designed to enhance the surf experience, attract a wider audience, and showcase Abu Dhabi's vibrant culture and entertainment offerings. While details are still under wraps, these future developments will build upon the success of the Surf Abu Dhabi Pro and contribute to the continued growth of surfing and sports tourism in the region.
