Latest news with #CLYMB
Tourism Breaking News
08-05-2025
- Business
- Tourism Breaking News
Yas Island recorded over 38 million visits in 2024
Miral announced remarkable achievements in visitation numbers in 2024 across Yas Island and Saadiyat Island, experiencing significant growth while setting new records. 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.
What's On
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
15 years of Yas Island: 15 wonderful things you must check out
Fifteen years of all-star fun… Abu Dhabi's own island of thrills, Yas Island, is celebrating its fifteenth birthday – and on that note, here are 15 things to do, see, and experience on Yas Island. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi This is the ultimate celebration of the world's favourite supercar. From the fastest rollercoaster in the world, to simulator experiences, to an incredible Italian restaurant, to a roof-walking experience – all Ferrari themed – you'll want to visit Ferrari World Abu Dhabi if you're a Ferrari fan. If you're not, visit and become one. CLYMB Abu Dhabi Long before you enter the building, you'll see it – a rock-shaped roof by Yas Mall that mysteriously pulls you closer until you realise you're inside. Double Guinness World Record holder, CLYMB Abu Dhabi boasts the world's largest indoor skydiving wind tunnel (32ft. in diametre and 179.2ft in height), plus the world's tallest indoor artificial climbing wall (138ft). Did we also mention it was fabulously fun? Yas Marina Circuit All else aside, this is the home of the Formula 1 Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – the season closer and arguably the most thrilling race on the Formula 1 calendar. It's more than a race though – it's the ultimate weekend of fun, entertainment, adrenaline-soaked achievements, record-busting concerts, food, friends, family…the list is endless. But aside from the Abu Dhabi GP, there's more to be enjoyed at YMC throughout the year, such as… Yas Marina Circuit Driving Experiences If you thought only the seasoned superstars were allowed to take to the asphalt here, there's good news for you: you can, too. Satisfy your need for speed with exclusive experiences. Fancy getting behind the wheel of a Ferrari 458? An Aston Martin GT4? Consider it done. Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is a fully air-conditioned, indoor theme park spanning 1.65 million square feet, featuring 29 rides and attractions across six immersive zones. It's the perfect destination for fans of DC superheroes, classic cartoons, and family-friendly fun, and whether you're planning the trip for your kids or to roll back the years in a wave of nostalgia, this spot is guaranteed to impress. Etihad Arena Heavy hitter, indeed. Home to Abu Dhabi's, nay, the UAE's (and usually even the region's) biggest concerts, shows, plays, performances, UFC fights, NBA Games – you name it, this 18,000 capacity entertainment hub stands tall on Yas Island, bringing the best in the world to Abu Dhabi. Yas Bay Waterfront If we're talking about the Etihad Arena, it's impossible not to think about Yas Bay. Home to some of Abu Dhabi's finest eats, you'll find everything here from an upscale steakhouse to the finest tacos to a good ol' Irish pub. It's also a gorgeous spot to catch the Abu Dhabi sunset, so don't blame yourself if you've realised you just spent a whole day here. Yas Marina For gorgeous marina views and strolls, Yas Marina is the place to be. It's also home to prized eats such as Cipriani, Mika, Iris and Diablito, and is a lot calmer than other dining hotspots on Yas Bay. Except during Formula One weekend, of course. Etihad Park Home to Abu Dhabi's Yasalam After Race Concerts, Etihad Park is a 25,000-strong open-air venue (pretty sure we spotted way more fans) that's hosted some of the biggest names in the world. Eminem performed here last December, Metallica is on their way next. This is where you head to during the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix once you're done catching the on-track action. Yas Beach Yas Island, like a lot of Abu Dhabi's other islands, is home to a gorgeous beach of its own. With white sands, clear blue waters and that signature Abu Dhabi tranquility, it's ideal for the beach gateway you've been wanting to take, whether it's just glorious rays or water sports that speak to you. Yas Mall One of Abu Dhabi's top retail hubs and also its largest, this massive destination by Al Dar Properties features over 370 international brands, 68 dining options, a 24-screen VOX Cinemas multiplex, family entertainment zones and has direct access to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. The Fountains Also a part of Yas Mall, you have to visit The Fountains when you head to Yas Mall, for Abu Dhabi's best dancing fountain show. Shows are 30 minutes long, and you can watch them with or without music. Yas Links Like the name might suggest, Yas Links Abu Dhabi is the Middle East's first true links golf course. The Par 72 championship course ranks among the world's top courses, and the resort includes a luxurious clubhouse, golf academy, gym, spa, pool, and practice facilities. Like any award-winning golfing facility, it also houses its share of eats, such as Hickory's and Crafty Fox. Yas KartZone Whether you're a budding racer, or just in the mood for some karting fun, Yas Kartzone offers you an exhilarating karting experience, no matter what your age is. The facility features a 1-kilometer outdoor track with three configurations – and is the ideal fun family outing (or a great setting for a competitive race – whatever you prefer). Yas Waterworld
Trade Arabia
30-04-2025
- Business
- Trade Arabia
Yas Island records over 38 million visits in 2024
Miral has announced record-breaking visitation numbers across Yas Island and Saadiyat Island in 2024, reflecting strong year-on-year growth and reinforcing Abu Dhabi's global positioning as a leading tourism destination. Unveiled at Arabian Travel Market 2025, Yas Island recorded over 38 million visits in 2024, a 10 per cent increase over 2023. Hotel occupancy reached 82 per cent, peaking at 905 in August, with a 9 percent year-on-year increase and a 17 per cent rise in average daily rate. Saadiyat Island also achieved a 10 per cent increase in hotel and museum visitation, reported WAM. Dr Mohamed Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, said the performance reflects the company's alignment with Abu Dhabi's Tourism Strategy and its focus on sustainable growth and economic diversification. 'These results highlight the strength of our strategic partnerships and our ongoing commitment to elevating Abu Dhabi's global appeal,' he said. Yas Island's theme parks and CLYMB recorded a 20 per cent rise in visitation, with GCC traffic up 56 percent and international visits up 40 per cent, driven by growth from India (44 per cent), China (81 per cent), the UK (40 per cent) and Russia (29 per cent). Attendance at consumer events rose 10 per cent, supported by a year-round calendar of concerts and shows including Hamilton, UFC, Formula 1, NBA, Disney on Ice and the Wireless Festival. Business tourism also grew, with a 17 per cent increase in events and a 7 per cent rise in room nights. To support this growth, Miral unveiled the Yas Island Metaverse project in collaboration with e& enterprise, offering virtual experiences of the destination's venues and attractions. Saadiyat Island achieved 74 per cent hotel occupancy in 2024 and a 14 percent rise in ADR. Key source markets included the UK (11 per cent growth), India (30 per cent) and China (58 per cent), reinforcing the island's positioning as a cultural and leisure destination. Upcoming openings include a 16,900 sqm expansion of Yas Waterworld in summer 2025, featuring 12 new rides, and a 560m beachfront development at Yas Bay. Warner Bros. World Yas Island will expand with DC attractions, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and two new rides. Saadiyat Island's cultural offerings were bolstered by the launch of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi on 18th April and the upcoming Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, set to be the region's largest when completed by the end of 2025. In 2024, Yas Island received over 175 global awards, while Saadiyat Island earned more than 20, cementing its status as the Middle East's leading beach destination. Miral, which manages Yas Island and leads Saadiyat Island's destination strategy, continues to support Abu Dhabi's Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract 39.3 million visitors annually, create 178,000 jobs and contribute AED90 billion to the national GDP.
Gulf Business
30-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Business
Yas Island sees 38 million visits, Saadiyat Island grows 10% in 2024: Miral
Images: Supplied Miral, the developer behind Abu Dhabi's popular leisure destinations, announced record-breaking visitation numbers across Yas Island and Saadiyat Island in 2024, driven by surging demand from regional and international markets. Unveiled during the Arabian Travel Market 2025, Yas Island welcomed over 38 million visits, marking a ten per cent year-on-year increase and its strongest performance since 2019. Saadiyat Island also recorded a 10 per cent rise in visitors, underscoring its appeal as a luxury cultural and beach destination. 'These exceptional results are a testament to our commitment to contributing to Abu Dhabi's vision of becoming a leading global destination,' said Dr Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Hospitality numbers up across Yas Island's hospitality sector hit 82 per cent occupancy, peaking at 90 per cent in August, alongside a 17 per cent increase in average daily rate (ADR). Theme parks and CLYMB Abu Dhabi saw a 20 per cent jump in attendance, with GCC visitation up 56 per cent and international visits surging 40 per cent, led by India (44 per cent), China (81 per cent), UK (40 per cent) and Russia (29 per cent). The destination's growing status as an events powerhouse was underscored by a ten per cent rise in consumer event attendance in 2024. Major highlights included concerts by Diljit Dosanjh and the Backstreet Boys, the Wireless Festival, NBA, UFC, and Formula 1, as well as regional premieres of hit musicals like Hamilton and Life of Pi . Business tourism also surged, with a seventeen per cent increase in conferences and a seven per cent rise in room nights. Miral revealed its latest digital initiative — a Yas Island Metaverse developed with e& enterprise — aiming to elevate corporate engagement through immersive virtual experiences. Hotel occupancy grew on Saadiyat Island, reports Miral On Saadiyat Island, hotel occupancy hit 74 per cent in 2024, with ADR growing 14 per cent. The island saw significant inbound growth from China (58 per cent), India (30 per cent) and the UK (11 per cent), cementing its appeal as a nature and culture-focused destination. Yas Waterworld expansion announced Looking ahead, Miral is set to unveil a host of new attractions in 2025, further enhancing Abu Dhabi's position as a global leisure and cultural hub. A major expansion of Yas Waterworld is slated for summer 2025, featuring 12 new rides, including the world's first blaster ride designed for kids. At Yas Bay, a 560-metre beachfront development will add to the lifestyle offerings along Yas Bay Waterfront, complementing the area's vibrant leisure scene. Warner Bros. World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi will also see a significant footprint expansion, with new DC attractions, the highly anticipated Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and two additional rides, building on the theme park's immersive experiences. Meanwhile, on Saadiyat Island, the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi — expected to be the largest of its kind in the region—is on track for completion by the end of 2025. The museum will offer visitors a captivating journey through the history of the natural world and the diversity of life on Earth. Adding to the cultural landscape, teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi opened its doors on April 18 at the Saadiyat Cultural District. Spanning 17,000 square metres, the multi-sensory art experience was developed in collaboration with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) and Japanese art collective teamLab, and is operated by Miral Experiences. These milestones reflect Abu Dhabi's broader Tourism Strategy 2030, which targets 39.3 million visitors annually, Dhs90bn in GDP contribution, and 178,000 new tourism jobs. Read:
Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Yas, Saadiyat islands set tourism records in 2024
Miral has announced record-breaking visitation numbers across Yas Island and Saadiyat Island in 2024, reflecting strong year-on-year growth and reinforcing Abu Dhabi's global positioning as a leading tourism destination. Unveiled at Arabian Travel Market 2025, Yas Island recorded over 38 million visits in 2024, a 10 percent increase over 2023. Hotel occupancy reached 82 percent, peaking at 905 in August, with a 9 percent year-on-year increase and a 17 percent rise in average daily rate. Saadiyat Island also achieved a 10 percent increase in hotel and museum visitation. Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, said the performance reflects the company's alignment with Abu Dhabi's Tourism Strategy and its focus on sustainable growth and economic diversification. 'These results highlight the strength of our strategic partnerships and our ongoing commitment to elevating Abu Dhabi's global appeal,' he said. Yas Island's theme parks and CLYMB recorded a 20 percent rise in visitation, with GCC traffic up 56 percent and international visits up 40 percent, driven by growth from India (44 percent), China (81 percent), the UK (40 percent) and Russia (29 percent). Attendance at consumer events rose 10 percent, supported by a year-round calendar of concerts and shows including Hamilton, UFC, Formula 1, NBA, Disney on Ice and the Wireless Festival. Business tourism also grew, with a 17 percent increase in events and a 7 percent rise in room nights. To support this growth, Miral unveiled the Yas Island Metaverse project in collaboration with e& enterprise, offering virtual experiences of the destination's venues and attractions. Saadiyat Island achieved 74 percent hotel occupancy in 2024 and a 14 percent rise in ADR. Key source markets included the UK (11 percent growth), India (30 percent) and China (58 percent), reinforcing the island's positioning as a cultural and leisure destination. Upcoming openings include a 16,900 sqm expansion of Yas Waterworld in summer 2025, featuring 12 new rides, and a 560m beachfront development at Yas Bay. Warner Bros. World Yas Island will expand with DC attractions, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and two new rides. Saadiyat Island's cultural offerings were bolstered by the launch of teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi on 18th April and the upcoming Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi, set to be the region's largest when completed by the end of 2025. In 2024, Yas Island received over 175 global awards, while Saadiyat Island earned more than 20, cementing its status as the Middle East's leading beach destination. Miral, which manages Yas Island and leads Saadiyat Island's destination strategy, continues to support Abu Dhabi's Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to attract 39.3 million visitors annually, create 178,000 jobs and contribute AED90 billion to the national GDP.
