logo
Yas Waterworld unveils massive expansion with over 20 new rides in Abu Dhabi

Yas Waterworld unveils massive expansion with over 20 new rides in Abu Dhabi

Arabian Business8 hours ago
Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, has officially opened the doors to its highly anticipated expansion — adding over 13,445sqm of attractions.
The newly launched area, dubbed the 'Lost City,' builds on the waterpark's storytelling legacy of The Legend of the Lost Pearl and includes more than 20 new rides, slides and experiences.
The expanded destination was unveiled in a ceremony attended by Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director-General of Tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral.
This launch brings Yas Waterworld's total offering to more than 60 rides and attractions — making it one of the most extensive waterparks in the region.
Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Key highlights of the new expansion include several rides debuting in the Middle East for the first time:
Al Falaj Race: The region's first side-by-side duelling tube raft ride
Bahamut's Rage: A dramatic log flume experience with high-impact splashes
Al Sahel Junior: The region's first mini zero-gravity boomerango designed especially for younger guests
Al Mafras: A desert-themed water slide with a splash landing.
Red Dunes: A twisting enclosed aqua tube built for younger thrill-seekers
Dawwama Junior: A child-friendly version of the iconic vortex ride
Mataha Madness: A family raft ride with disorienting spins and surprises
Sadaf Swirl: The region's first high-speed raft ride with spin-powered thrills
The new zone also features a brand-new dining venue.
Orange background

Try Our AI Features

Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:

Comments

No comments yet...

Related Articles

UAE top country of choice for MENA content creators as GCC drives positive change
UAE top country of choice for MENA content creators as GCC drives positive change

Khaleej Times

timean hour ago

  • Khaleej Times

UAE top country of choice for MENA content creators as GCC drives positive change

A growing number of influencers believe the Gulf is at the forefront of regional transformation — especially in the tourism and entertainment sectors. Among the standout nations, the UAE emerged as the top pick, with 45 per cent of surveyed creators pointing to its growing influence and innovation in this space. Saudi Arabia followed at 26 per cent, while Lebanon was chosen by 10 per cent of respondents. That's according to the newly released InfluAnswer Arabia report by Weber Shandwick MENAT (Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey), where 77 per cent of MENA content creators say GCC countries are leading the way in driving positive change across these industries. Now in its second edition, InfluAnswer Arabia captures the views of the region's influencer community, shedding light on how creators perceive shifts in the influencer marketing ecosystem and the broader role of countries in shaping industry trends. New and continuous content opportunities in UAE Speaking to Khaleej Times, social media influencer Jacquelyn May, who has 93.3K followers on Instagram, said, "I live in Abu Dhabi and truly love it. After spending nine years in the UAE, I can confidently say that both Dubai and the country as a whole are among the best places in the world to live. That's why working to promote the city and country I call home is something I'm genuinely passionate about." She explained as a content creator, staying on top of trends is important — though it can be challenging at times. "What matters is staying true to your niche and personal style. My audience is largely based in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, so while I keep an eye on trends, I always ensure that my content reflects who I am and resonates with my community." "One of the things I love most about being a creator here is how international the experience is. You meet people from all over the world and get to explore different aspects of content that appeal to a wide range of audiences. Dubai, in particular, feels like a creative melting pot — there's beauty everywhere, and it's incredibly photogenic.' May emphasized there's always something happening here, even in the summer. 'Whether it's spending time at Aquaventure, relaxing on the beach, or going night swimming, the city constantly offers new opportunities for content creation. It's a stark contrast to my time in Canada, where eight months of snow often meant staying indoors with little to do." Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market, said, "Travel growth in the Middle East is incredibly strong, with annual growth averaging more than 7 per cent through 2030. Bold national visions, game-changing developments, and enhanced connectivity are some of the key factors driving this momentum.' While short-form content continues to dominate, long-form content is growing in prominence. Many creators are experimenting with lengthy, in-depth content types that allow for more personal storytelling and authentic expression. Additionally, six in ten MENA creators say that they posted more in the past year about causes they care personally care about. 'My niche is very much focused on the GCC, especially Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Many creators who move here from the UK or Australia tend to tailor their content to their home countries. But for me, my audience and identity as a MENA creator are deeply rooted in this region,' she added. Positive about AI Meanwhile, positive sentiment toward AI tools has surged, with influencers increasingly shifting from a neutral stance to hands-on implementation and broader experimentation. Almost half — 49 per cent — of creators in the MENA region now view AI positively, a significant rise from just 29 per cent last year. Digital creators believe the most notable impact of AI will be the emergence of more sophisticated tools and analytics -- cited by 63 per cent -- enabling them to automate repetitive tasks and dedicate more time to storytelling. Ziad Hasbani, Regional CEO, Weber Shandwick MENAT, said, "MENA's influencer landscape continues to mature, and despite increased competition, content creators are growing in confidence. The themes that are driving optimism and progress centre around authenticity, community-building, and strategic diversification in terms of platforms, content types, and monetisation. This year's report gives brands a clearer lens into what creators' value, and how to build partnerships that are authentic, impactful, effective, and built to last.'

UFC is coming back to Abu Dhabi soon and it's going to be epic
UFC is coming back to Abu Dhabi soon and it's going to be epic

Time Out Abu Dhabi

time6 hours ago

  • Time Out Abu Dhabi

UFC is coming back to Abu Dhabi soon and it's going to be epic

Get ready fight fans, because the Octagon is returning to the capital in a big way. UFC 321 lands at Etihad Arena on Saturday October 25 and it's gearing up to be one of the most explosive nights on the fight calendar. Part of the much-hyped Abu Dhabi Showdown Week, UFC 321 promises a stacked card, international championship talent and all the knockout action we've come to expect from the world's premier MMA organisation. Whether you're a seasoned UFC die-hard or just love a big night out, this is not one to miss. When do tickets go on sale? Tickets go on general sale Friday July 25 and fans are being encouraged to register early at Visit Abu Dhabi to get the best shot at grabbing seats before they're gone. You'll be able to buy them through Etihad Arena and Ticketmaster, so set those reminders. If you're a newbie to the Abu Dhabi UFC scene, here's why it's such a big deal. Since first touching down here in 2010, UFC has hosted more than 20 action-packed events in the capital, cementing Abu Dhabi as a heavyweight on the global combat sports map. This year is no exception – with UFC Fight Night warming things up at Etihad Arena on Saturday July 26. Aussie favourite and former champ Robert Whittaker will go toe-to-toe with Reinier de Ridder, a rising star looking to shake up the rankings. And that's just the beginning. While you're at it, if you want to level up your UFC experience premium VIP experience packages for UFC 321 will be available soon via UFC VIP, offering everything from ringside seats and backstage access to meet-and-greets, all-inclusive hospitality and front-row views at weigh-ins. Prices TBC. Fri Oct 25 (tickets on sale Jul 25). Etihad Arena, Yas Island. More going on in Abu Dhabi The 27 best things to do indoors this summer in Abu Dhabi It's time for some air-conditioned bliss 12 fantastic road trips across the GCC Fill up the tank and go 25 brilliant beach and pool day passes in Abu Dhabi Grab your SPF – a lush day by the water awaits

'Enough space' on Yas Island for one new attraction a year
'Enough space' on Yas Island for one new attraction a year

The National

time7 hours ago

  • The National

'Enough space' on Yas Island for one new attraction a year

Yas Waterworld has unveiled its largest upgrade since opening more than a decade ago, adding more than 20 attractions and an indoor dining restaurant across 13,445 square metres in phase two of its development. Mohamed Al Zaabi, group chief executive of Miral, says the team are 'proud and excited' about the expansion. 'It's designed for and caters to all family members. We'd love to see a dad with his son racing each other and playing and enjoying their time here,' he tells The National. The waterpark remains popular among both tourists and residents, with Al Zaabi pointing to a spike in summer visitation that reflects Yas Island's overall growth in recent years. In 2024, the destination recorded more than 38 million visits – a 10 per cent annual increase, and a 20 per cent rise in theme park attendance. The top three visitor markets to Yas Waterworld during this period were Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, with travellers also coming from India, China, the UK and Germany. Although the UAE isn't traditionally seen as a peak travel destination in summer – with many families heading abroad during the hotter months – the numbers suggest that trend may be shifting. This is not the first time Miral has launched a major theme park during the summer: Warner Bros World in July 2018, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi in May 2023 and now the Yas Waterworld expansion. Originally opened in 2013, the waterpark pays tribute to Emirati culture and heritage. Its theme is based on The Legend of the Lost Pearl, an original story about a young Emirati girl searching for a mythical pearl that once brought prosperity to her village. The latest phase continues this narrative with a 'lost city' setting, brought to life through rides such as Bahamut Rage, a log flume ride with a 15-metre drop, and Al Daloob, the region's first barrel twist raft ride designed for three people. 'We want people, when they come to UAE, to see the flavour of our culture, of our heritage. Here in Yas Island, we have done this at Yas Waterworld and SeaWorld, wherever we can,' says Al Zaabi. The road to opening hasn't been without setbacks. A major fire broke out at the park in March, raising concerns about whether the new area would be completed on time. 'It was an unfortunate incident. I'm very glad there were no injuries,' says Al Zaabi. 'We give credit to emergency services here in Abu Dhabi, who acted very fast to control it, and to the health and safety team at Miral. With all that, yet we open on time.' The expansion marks another step in Yas Island's aim to become a go-to spot for leisure and family fun. Each new feature adds to its variety, drawing in more visitors. 'We have very clear strategy: to build Yas Island as one of the top family entertainment destinations in the world where people come to enjoy different experiences,' says Al Zaabi. The announcement of Disneyland Abu Dhabi is a prime example of this vision. The landmark project signals a new era for not just for the UAE capital, but also the wider region's theme park and tourism industry. 'We're very, very proud of this achievement. It's a reflection of how successful Abu Dhabi is to attract an international [entertainment resort] like Disney,' says Al Zaabi. 'Disney has been looking to expand and open a new theme park in this region and Abu Dhabi successfully managed to be selected.' He adds that there aren't many places in the world that offer multiple international theme parks all within a five-minute drive of each other, along with hotels for all budgets. And the work isn't done yet. As part of a long-term strategy, Miral has set out a 10-year plan to try and add at least one new attraction to Yas Island every year. The aim is to ensure that returning visitors always have something fresh to discover. While many are eagerly awaiting updates on Disneyland Abu Dhabi, Al Zaabi says Miral and Disney are still in the design and development phase. With further developments on the horizon, a natural question is whether there will be enough space for it in the coming years. 'Yes, there is enough space. We have a land bank,' says Al Zaabi, referring to undeveloped land set aside for future use. Lightshow announces launch of Disneyland Abu Dhabi – video While he acknowledges the significance of adding Disney to the portfolio, Al Zaabi says Yas Island has built its reputation through the steady rollout of theme parks, attractions and leisure offerings over the past decade. The partnership, he says, reflects years of strategic development aimed at putting Yas Island on the global map. Al Zaabi adds: 'Closing that deal is just a reflection of Abu Dhabi's success to be a tourism international hub and, of course, Yas Island's vision over the last 16 years of building such a destination.'

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store