Latest news with #MohamedAlZaabi
The National
a day ago
- Entertainment
- 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.'
The National
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The National
Disneyland Abu Dhabi: Yas Island to soon have five theme parks within a five-minute drive
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 IP 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 five 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 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.'
The National
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- The National
Yas Island to launch one new attraction every 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 IP 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 five 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 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. 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.'
Time Out Abu Dhabi
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi's new ride will break four world records
Buckle up, thrill-seekers – Abu Dhabi's iconic Ferrari World is about to unleash a record-breaking roller coaster that promises to shake up the global theme park scene. According to developer Miral (the company behind the island's mega attractions, including the upcoming Disney Abu Dhabi), this jaw-dropping new ride will set four world records. Yes, four. Roller coaster fans, this one's for you. Mohamed Al Zaabi, group chief executive of Miral, said to reporters during the recent Arabian Travel Market that the new 'significant and signature ride in Ferrari World will have four records worldwide and roller coaster fans will be very excited to hear that news soon'. But that's just the beginning of the Yas Island glow-up. Over at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, two brand-new signature rides are being added to the roster and phase two of Yas Waterworld's big expansion is making waves with 12 new rides dropping this summer. If your summer plans weren't sorted yet, they are now. Looking even further into the future, a Disney theme park was just announced. As well as being the most advanced version yet, it's also expected to boost house prices in the area and create thousands of jobs. Talk about a glow-up. Theme park visits alone surged 20 percent last year, helping drive Yas Island to a whopping 38 million visits. Hotels are also smashing it – occupancy hit 82 percent, with guests staying longer and shelling out more. The average hotel rate jumped 17 percent and Miral is now planning to add 30 percent more hotel rooms over the next five years to keep up with demand. Culture lovers, you're in luck too. Over on Saadiyat Island, The Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi is on track to wrap up construction by the end of the year and teamLab Phenomena has already been pulling in crowds. Still to come? The hotly anticipated Zayed National Museum and Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. Oh and for Potterheads: work on the magical Harry Potter attraction inside Warner Bros. World is underway – so hold on to your broomsticks. This all feeds into Abu Dhabi's ambitious Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to pull in nearly 40 million visitors a year, create 178,000 new jobs and contribute Dhs90 billion to the local economy. With 1.4 million overnight guests already clocked in Q1 2025 alone and hotel revenues surging to Dhs2.3 billion, the capital is cruising toward its goals. From blockbuster rides and cultural icons to next-level hotel stays, Yas Island is fast becoming a destination where you can do it all – and then some. 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
The Sun
09-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
New Disney theme park to be fully indoors – and could open in seven years
DISNEY'S new theme park that could open by the early 2030s - and will be fully indoors in a first for the brand. This week The Walt Disney company announced that it will be opening a seventh park and resort on Yas Island in the United Arab Emirates. 7 The park will be created by immersive destination and experiences company Miral and will feature accommodations, unique dining experiences, retail opportunities and integrated storytelling throughout. However, the park will be completely indoors - a first for Disney. Miral Group CEO Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi told a local radio station, the Dubai Eye, that the park will be indoors. He said: "As you know, all of are theme parks are indoors." Miral is the owner of Yas Island, where all the other attractions are indoors. Temperatures often surpass 37C in the Emirates and even 48C in the peak summer season. As a result, parks in the country that are outdoors often have to close when it is too hot. And Disney imagineers have already started to design the park. The park will be located on Yas Island, which is a hub of entertainment and retail experiences. It is already home to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterwold, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. Let Kevin Hart show you around Yas Island, the world's biggest indoor theme park The Formula 1 Yas Marina Circuit is also on Yas Island and the area hosts Abu Dhabi's largest mall and an award-winning golf course. Al Zaabi also shared that the new Disney park would be the most advanced in the portfolio. He commented: "I would say it's too early to share details about the design, but I will say it'll be the most advanced Disney theme park in the world. "Expect local tech companies to be involved, as well as Disney's experience from around the world. "It's a resort, so it'll include many features and so many elements." Abu Dhabi has developed heat management tech, for example, in March the capital unveiled what it dubbed as the world's first air-conditioned street, reports Skift. In Dubai, a resort has also claimed to have built the first outdoor street where it can make rain on command. When Al Zaabi was asked whether Yas Island would have to be expanded to fit a Disney park, he couldn't give a firm answer. 7 "That will be considered. There will be an upgrade to services and infrastructure," he said. Disney Parks chairperson Josh D'Amro said, in an interview on CNBC that Miral will fully fund this project, including eventually operating it with oversight from Disney. Disney CEO Bob Iger, said: "As our seventh theme park destination, it will rise from this land in spectacular fashion, blending contemporary architecture with cutting edge technology to offer guests deeply immersive entertainment experiences in unique and modern ways." Iger added that they do not yet have a pinned date for the opening of the park, as it usually takes "between 18 months and two years to design and dully develop and approximately five years to build", reports CNBC. So this means the park could open in around seven years, following the design and building. 7 7 Disney has slowly been entering the UAE in recent years, with retail locations and touring entertainment show sin particular. Iger told CNBC that the company firsts tarted considering the region for a new resort back in 2017/2018. D'Amaro shared that the "groundbreaking" resort destination represents "a new frontier in theme park development". He added that the resort will be the most advanced and interactive destination in the portfolio. He said: "The location of our park is incredibly unique – anchored by a beautiful waterfront – which will allow us to tell our stories in completely new ways. "This project will reach guests in a whole new part of the world, welcoming more families to experience Disney than ever before." Here's ev erything we know about the park so far. Plus, the small English castle with ancient woodlands that people say looks just like a Disney film. 7
