World largest aquarium to open in Abu Dhabi in May

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is set to open its doors on May 23.

The marine life theme park will feature “immersive family-friendly experiences through eight of its uniquely themed realms, featuring up-close animal encounters, exciting rides, inspiring entertainment, as well as unmatched dining and shopping experiences”, according to a statement.

Brought to Dubai by Miral, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s eight realms are spread across five indoor levels spanning an area of approximately 183,000 square metres.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi: A key marine habitat

The ‘Endless Ocean’ realm will feature the world’s largest and most expansive multi-species aquarium.

The aquarium will contain over 25 million litres of water.

It will also be a dynamic habitat for more than 68,000 marine animals, including sharks, schools of fish, manta rays and sea turtles.

Located on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, in total there will be over 100,000 marine animals including 150 species of birds, fish, mammals and reptiles at the Marine Life Theme Park.

Home to the world’s largest aquarium, @SeaWorldAD is set to open, 23rd May 2023!

A collaboration between Miral & SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, #SeaWorldAD will feature 8 unique themed realms, animal encounters, exciting rides, over 100,000 marine animals and more! pic.twitter.com/kNa9IulMWE

— Miral (@themiralgroup) March 21, 2023

The chairman of Miral, Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, said, “We are delighted to announce the opening of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi this May, and proud of our partnership with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment to bring the region’s next-generation Marine Life Theme Park to Abu Dhabi and to Yas Island.

“As part of our commitment to the Year of Sustainability, the marine life park will embed Sheikh Zayed’s legacy and profound respect for nature and all its beauty, as well as play a key role in promoting environmental awareness and protecting marine life in Abu Dhabi, the UAE and the wider region.

“Through its innovative programmes and its state-of-the-art facilities, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi aims to inspire the next generation of conservationists and marine life scientists while fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s opening will mark an exciting new chapter in Yas Island and Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to promote tourism, showcase the emirate’s truly unique offerings and position it as a top global destination.”

Read: How Miral is transforming Abu Dhabi with its grand vision

Designed according to standards set by the Association of Zoos and Aquarium (AZA) and American Humane, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s marine life habitats feature next-gen design and technology that will enable animals to live alongside other fish, birds, and animals as they co-exit in nature.

Other spaces have been designed to provide flexibility for animal welfare allowing the SeaWorld Abu Dhabi animal care team to recreate social seasonal patterns for animals such as the walrus.

Unique systems such as the advanced animal lighting system (AALS) recreate night/day and seasonal light cycles while also providing the health benefits of full-spectrum light and the Animal Life Support System (ALSS) manages water quality to support the diverse array of fish and mammals living together in dynamic environments are some of the cutting-edge features at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.

The park is home to Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the first-of-its-kind dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation and return centre in the region, serving as an advanced marine science knowledge hub and a key contributor to marine life conservation in the UAE and wider region.

Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue opened in February 2023.

Miral and SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment have launched the MENA region’s first dedicated marine research and rescue centre, Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, as part of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, to enhance public knowledge of ongoing conservation efforts. pic.twitter.com/BKbnle9pXi

— مكتب أبوظبي الإعلامي (@ADMediaOffice) February 8, 2023