Miral announces record-breaking visitation on Yas Island and Saadiyat Island in 2024
Yas Island recorded over 38 million visits while Saadiyat Island saw a 10% increase in visitation compared to 2023, announced during Arabian Travel Market 2025
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, April, 2025 – Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, announced remarkable achievements in visitation numbers in 2024 across Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, experiencing significant growth while setting new records.
Highlighted during Arabian Travel Market 2025, Yas Island recorded over 38 million visits in 2024, a notable 10% increase compared to 2023. Achieving their highest performance since 2019, Yas Island hotels' occupancy reached 82% peaking up to 90% in August 2024; an annual 9% growth in hotel occupancy alongside a 17% increase in the average daily rate (ADR) compared to 2023. Similarly, Saadiyat Island saw a 10% visitation growth across its hotels and museums compared to 2023.
Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, said, 'These exceptional results are testament to our commitment to contributing to the achievement of Abu Dhabi's vision of becoming a leading global destination, in alignment with the Emirate's Tourism Strategy and broader ambitions for sustainable growth and economic diversification.' He added, 'through the development of world-class destinations and immersive experiences, we are not only attracting visitors from around the world but also creating joyful moments that leave a lasting impact. The continued success of Yas Island and Saadiyat Island stands as a powerful testament to the strength of our strategic partnerships and our shared dedication to elevating Abu Dhabi's global appeal.'
Yas Island's theme parks and CLYMB™ saw an impressive 20% rise in visitation alongside an astonishing 56% increase in visitation from the GCC compared to the previous year. Meanwhile, international visits to the theme parks also saw significant growth, with a 40%, rise, led by a substantial increase from key markets, including India (+44%), China (+81%), the UK (+40%), and Russia (+29%).
The destination also experienced a 10% attendance increase for its consumer events in 2024, bolstering its position as a leading destination for world-class events. This impressive growth was led by a year-round calendar of world-class concerts, performances, and family and sports events, including Diljit Dosanjh's Dil-Luminati Tour, Wireless Festival Middle East, UFC, NBA, Formula 1® Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, Disney on Ice, Abu Dhabi Comedy Week, the Backstreet Boys, among many others. The year also saw the regional debuts of hit musicals, Hamilton, Life of Pi, Matilda and Chicago, contributing to Yas Island's event attendance growth.
Moreover, Yas Island is rapidly growing into a key destination for corporate events and conferences, offering a unique blend of business capabilities and leisure offerings. The destination recorded a 17% increase in business events and conferences in 2024 with a 7% increase in room nights compared to 2023. As part of its efforts to further bolster this segment's growth, Miral announced the development of the Yas Island Metaverse in partnership with e& enterprise, the digital transformation arm of e&. The project leverages cutting-edge metaverse technologies to exhibit business event venues along with attractions and experiences on Yas Island in a comprehensive virtual experience.
Saadiyat Island continues to attract visitors seeking an elevated blend of cultural immersion and leisure. In addition to an increase in visitation compared to the previous year, the destination achieved a remarkable 74% hotel occupancy in 2024, alongside a 14% increase in the average daily rate (ADR) compared to 2023. The destination also experienced prominent visitation growth from key markets, including a 11% growth from UK, 30% growth from India and 58% growth from China, further solidifying its position as a leading beach, nature and cultural destination.
Several exciting developments on Yas Island are set to reach completion in 2025, including the first phase of the 16,900 sqm expansion of Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, set to open this summer 2025, with 12 new rides and experiences. Additionally, the 560m beachfront development at Yas Bay will serve as an addition to leisure and lifestyle experiences at Yas Bay Waterfront. Furthermore, Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi is set to significantly expand its footprint in the coming years with new DC attractions, the highly anticipated Wizarding World of Harry Potter, as well as two additional rides, building on the theme park's immersive and action-packed experiences.
The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, anticipated to be the largest of its kind in the region, is set for completion towards the end of 2025 and will offer visitors a fascinating journey through the history of the natural world while showcasing the incredible diversity of life on Earth. Meanwhile, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi welcomed its first guests at Saadiyat Cultural District on Saadiyat Island. Opened on April 18, the 17,000 sqm multi-sensory art experience was developed in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Japanese art collective, teamLab and is operated by Miral Experiences.
Showcasing their excellence and innovation as leading destinations, Yas Island and Saadiyat Island received over 190 awards and recognitions in 2024. Yas Island raised the bar in 2024, walking away with more than 175 accolades while Saadiyat Island cemented its standing as the Middle East's leading beach destination with over 20 prestigious accolades. These recognitions reflect Miral's commitment to spreading joy and creating unforgettable experiences while bolstering Abu Dhabi's position as a world-class leisure and entertainment destination.
Responsible for the destination management of Yas Island and overseeing Saadiyat Island's destination management strategy, Miral's portfolio of world-class experiences and destinations aim to significantly contribute to the economic growth of Abu Dhabi and the UAE, boosting tourism revenue while creating employment opportunities. This aligns with the ambitions of Abu Dhabi's Tourism Strategy 2030 to attract 39.3 million visitors, create 178,000 new jobs and increase the tourism sector's contribution to the UAE's GDP to AED 90 billion annually by 2030.
About Miral:
Miral, is the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, contributing to the growth of the leisure and entertainment industry and the City's economic diversification. It conceives, creates, operates, and manages immersive destinations and experiences that attract visitors from across the world and create unforgettable memories, accelerating the realisation of the Emirate's tourism vision and growth.
Responsible for the development of Yas Island and overseeing Saadiyat Island's Destination Management Strategy, Miral's portfolio of world-class assets incorporates entertainment, leisure, culture, sport, dining, retail, and hospitality experiences, aiming to deliver millions of memorable moments for residents and international guests alike. These include SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, Yas Marina, and Yas Bay Waterfront, home to the UAE's largest indoor multi-purpose venue Etihad Arena, amongst others. Miral also has several projects being developed on Yas Island and across the emirate, including teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, and a Harry Potter-themed land within Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi.
Miral encompasses three subsidiaries: Miral Destinations, which promotes unique destinations; Miral Experiences, which operates a diverse portfolio of world-class, award-winning immersive experiences; and Yas Asset Management, which operates and manages a portfolio of vibrant destinations including F&B, retail, marinas and hospitality properties across Yas Island.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
CAF
4 days ago
- CAF
FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup 2025™: Morocco to Face Brazil in opening match
The draw for the FIFA U-17 Women's World Cup Morocco 2025™, held on Wednesday in Rabat, set the tone for a highly anticipated edition of the tournament featuring competitive groups and a dazzling, historic opening match between the host nation and Brazil. The African flag will be flown by hosts Morocco, Cameroon, Nigeria, Côte d'Ivoire, and Zambia during the 3-week tournament taking place between 17 October – 8 November. As hosts of this eighth edition, Morocco have not been dealt an easy hand. Drawn into Group A alongside Brazil, Italy, and Costa Rica The opening match, scheduled to take place in Rabat, will see Morocco go head-to-head with a Brazilian side renowned for its strength at youth level. This high-profile fixture will serve as an important benchmark for Morocco, as they gauge how far they've come in their footballing development. Cameroon to Tackle a Formidable Group B Group B presents a stern test for Cameroon, who will face North Korea, Mexico, and the Netherlands in a compelling mix of footballing philosophies and playing styles. The Lionesses will need to combine tactical discipline with physical strength to compete effectively. Although Cameroon have never advanced beyond the quarterfinals in this competition, their U-17 side will be hoping to break new ground. Their recent success on the regional stage, particularly within the UNIFFAC zone, offers a solid foundation for optimism. Nigeria Aim to Maintain Their Legacy As one of the most successful African nations at youth level, Nigeria arrive with a proud legacy to uphold. Drawn into Group D, the Super Flamingos will take on France, Canada, and Samoa. It's a challenging group, but well within reach for a team known for its athletic prowess and technical quality. The Nigerian class of 2025 is attracting a lot of attention. With the right momentum, they have the potential to reach the quarterfinals or even further. Their encounter with France could very well be the pivotal fixture of the group. Debut Challenge for Côte d'Ivoire Côte d'Ivoire will make their tournament debut in Group E, where they'll face Spain, Colombia, and South Korea. The Ivorians will need to demonstrate character and determination to compete at this level. Their match against Spain, the runners-up in the previous edition, will be a formidable test. However, it's not insurmountable. Should the Little Elephants manage to hold off the Spanish onslaught, an upset could be on the cards. Their attacking line known for its speed and unpredictability could be their biggest asset. Zambia Ready to Make a Statement in Group F In Group F, Zambia is set to face Japan, New Zealand, and Paraguay. Though less experienced than their opponents, the U-17 Copper Princesses arrive with a clear goal: to surpass the performance of previous African teams at this stage of the tournament. It's a demanding draw, particularly against a Japanese side famed for its collective organisation and fluidity.
Mid East Info
5 days ago
- Mid East Info
AliExpress Revolutionizes the Online Shopping Experience with Electric Vehicles - Middle East Business News and Information
For the first time, you can order a state-of-the-art EV on AliExpress Big Save Dubai, UAE – June, 2025 – AliExpress is pushing the boundaries of online shopping by enabling customers to purchase the latest electric vehicles (EVs) directly from their homes , marking a significant milestone for e-commerce globally. This unprecedented service will launch in June during the platform's Summer Sale, offering consumers an innovative way to embrace sustainable transportation. At the initial stage, the cars will only be sold to the UAE with the plan to expand to other GCC markets. The Ideal Fit: Aligned with the UAE's Vision 2031, AliExpress will simplify the purchasing process for the latest brand-name EVs delivered from China. The UAE Vision 2031 seeks to position the nation as a leader across multiple sectors while enhancing the quality of life for its residents and ensuring sustainable development for future generations. This initiative serves as a perfect match for the country's aspirations, providing an accessible solution for consumers and promoting eco-conscious choices. By offering more affordable EVs, AliExpress is broadening the appeal of electric mobility across diverse demographic groups, benefiting all income brackets and contributing positively to the UAE's economy. Fueling the Future of Transportation: The electric vehicle market in the UAE is witnessing significant growth, driven by government incentives and robust infrastructure investments. Currently, there are over 70,000 EVs in the UAE, and this number is expected to reach 100,000 by 2027. Residents are increasingly drawn to electric vehicles due to their environmental advantages, such as zero emissions and reduced air pollution, fostering a cleaner, healthier environment. Additionally, consumers appreciate the lower operating costs that EVs offer compared to traditional gasoline-powered vehicles. Transparency at Its Finest: With AliExpress, purchasing the latest EV shipped from China has never been easier or more affordable. Through the platform's Big Save Channel, customers can conveniently select their desired model with AliExpress 15 years of e-commerce expertise. Once purchased, the electric vehicle will arrive via sea freight from China. This innovative approach is revolutionizing the way you shop for big-ticket items. Expect renowned brands like BYD, Geely, Jetour, and Toyota at significant savings, making these cutting-edge electric vehicles even more accessible to the Emirati consumer. The electric vehicle market in the United Arab Emirates is experiencing swift growth, driven by consumers' increasing demand for eco-friendly transportation, supportive government initiatives, and the establishment of a comprehensive charging infrastructure. Additionally, the country's commitment to sustainability has fostered a positive environment for electric vehicle adoption. In this dynamic landscape, AliExpress is stepping in to enhance accessibility by offering customers the ability to purchase the latest electric vehicles through its platform, further accelerating this shift toward sustainable mobility. About AliExpress: Launched in 2010, AliExpress is a global e-commerce platform dedicated to creating a better shopping experience for hundreds of millions of consumers in more than 200 countries and regions. In addition to the English version, the AliExpress platform is available in 15 other languages. AliExpress is part of Alibaba International Digital Commerce Group.
Mid East Info
6 days ago
- Mid East Info
Vertiv expands Liquid Cooling Portfolio with Scalable Solutions for AI And HPC Applications - Middle East Business News and Information
Now available in EMEA, the expanded Vertiv™ CoolChip CDU family supports any stage of liquid cooling adoption Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), a global leader in critical digital infrastructure, today announced the expansion of the Vertiv™ CoolChip CDU (coolant distribution units) family with the launch of the Vertiv™ CoolChip CDU 70, Vertiv™ CoolChip CDU 100 and Vertiv™ CoolChip CDU 600 models in Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA). These direct-to-chip (DTC) liquid cooling solutions enhance Vertiv's position as a leading innovator and enabler in AI and HPC infrastructure. The Vertiv CoolChip CDU 600 will be showcased for the first time in EMEA at the Vertiv booth at Datacloud Global Congress held this week in Cannes. 'As workloads continue to drive higher rack densities and cooling demands, customers need liquid cooling solutions that adapt to their unique deployment strategies, whether retrofitting an existing environment or scaling a new build,' said Sam Bainborough, vice president, EMEA thermal business at Vertiv. 'The Vertiv CoolChip CDU family offers flexible, scalable solutions that simplify deployment and support long-term growth. By reducing integration complexity and adapting to a range of data center environments, these CDUs help organizations scale liquid cooling more efficiently.' The new models are designed to suit retrofit or greenfield data center environments, with models including in-rack and row-based configurations, and liquid-to-air and liquid-to-liquid technologies. The innovative systems offer a flexible, scalable approach to address rising capacity demands while accelerating liquid cooling adoption. The Vertiv CoolChip CDU family is part of Vertiv's comprehensive liquid cooling offering and the broader Vertiv™ 360AI portfolio of power, cooling and services that solve the complex challenges of AI deployment. Backed by Vertiv™ Liquid Cooling Services, a global end-to-end offering that supports design, installation, commissioning, fluid management, and maintenance, the liquid cooling portfolio fits in a wide variety of scenarios ranging from retrofitting existing facilities to scaling high-density AI and HPC clusters in new builds. Vertiv™ CoolChip CDU 70 is an in-row, liquid-to-air coolant distribution unit that enables a fast, cost-effective entry into liquid cooling for data centers retrofitting existing environments or deploying new infrastructure. Designed to utilize existing thermal infrastructure, this liquid-to-air CDU is ideal for facilities looking to deploy liquid cooling capacity without requiring major infrastructure changes. The system delivers up to 70 kW of cooling capacity and is designed for agility and scalability, helping to reduce secondary fluid network complexity and infrastructure footprint. Its integrated controller supports real-time monitoring, group control and unit-to-unit communication, for coordinated thermal performance, simplified management, and efficient scaling across multiple racks. Vertiv™ CoolChip CDU 100 brings powerful liquid-to-liquid in-rack cooling performance, giving data centers a secure and space-efficient solution for high-density workloads. Ideal for operators to introduce or expand liquid cooling deployments one rack at a time, supporting incremental growth or AI pilot programs without the need for large-scale infrastructure changes. With 100 kW of cooling capacity in a 4U form factor and a large-surface heat exchanger engineered for low approach temperatures, Vertiv CoolChip CDU 100 enables optimal heat transfer. An integrated controller provides monitoring and control capabilities to streamline operations and enhance visibility. Built-in filtration and precise temperature control within ±1°C help maintain fluid quality and thermal stability, while the physical separation of facility and IT loops supports secure, efficient system management in mission-critical environments. Vertiv™ CoolChip CDU 600 is an in-row, liquid-to-liquid model delivering robust, scalable liquid cooling capacity for high-density AI and HPC deployments. The 600 kW system is designed to meet the demands of hyperscale and colocation environments, supporting in-row configurations and integrating easily into raised floor or retrofit installations. Its design, including top or bottom piping connections and available internal manifolds, streamlines infrastructure planning and speeds implementation. With redundant pumps, advanced monitoring for temperature and fluid quality, and a flexible approach to deployment, Vertiv CoolChip CDU 600 offers reliability, visibility, and performance for customers scaling liquid cooling across broader IT environments.
