Frequently Asked Questions
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What is SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi all about?
SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi is a groundbreaking marine life theme park that brings the powerful story of “One Ocean” to life. This concept highlights the deep connection between all living things and our shared ocean, aiming to inspire visitors to care for and protect the planet. The park offers an exciting mix of attractions for all ages, including thrilling rides, close-up animal experiences, interactive shows, and vibrant dining and shopping—all in one amazing location.
Spread across five indoor levels and covering around 183,000 square meters, SeaWorld Yas Island holds more than 58 million liters of water and hosts over 150 species of marine animals. It also features the Endless Ocean aquarium, the largest multi-species marine aquarium in the region, offering breathtaking underwater views and encounters.
The park is also home to the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, the first facility of its kind in the region. This center is dedicated to marine life research, animal rescue, rehabilitation, and return efforts, supporting conservation and scientific advancement.
What attractions and experiences are available at SeaWorld Yas Island?
SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi features eight immersive realms, each designed to share the powerful message of ‘One Ocean’—a reminder of how life on land and in the sea is deeply connected. These realms offer thrilling rides, engaging experiences, close-up animal encounters, and interactive environments that bring the ocean’s wonders to life.
Guests can enjoy over 15 exciting rides and interactive activities, making every visit fun and educational. The park also includes 17 diverse dining spots and 13 retail outlets, giving families plenty of options to relax, eat, and shop during their unforgettable day at SeaWorld.
How does SeaWorld Yas Island care for its animals?
SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi is fully dedicated to the highest standards of animal welfare, following globally recognized best practices. Our expert animal care team includes more than 100 skilled professionals—veterinarians, scientists, animal specialists, and educators—who are deeply committed to the health and well-being of every animal in our care.
We are proud to be certified by Global Humane, the international division of American Humane, which is the world’s leading organization for animal welfare certification. SeaWorld Yas Island is the first facility in the MENA region to receive this prestigious recognition.
Our animal habitats are thoughtfully designed to provide enriching, naturalistic environments where marine life can thrive. With the help of advanced technology, we replicate essential natural elements like water currents, wave patterns, temperature, and lighting. Our Advanced Animal Lighting System (AALS) recreates natural sunlight and seasonal changes, simulating day, night, and seasonal light cycles to match the animals’ native conditions.
Is SeaWorld Yas Island certified to provide care for marine life?
SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi has been officially certified by Global Humane, the international arm of American Humane—recognized as the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare. This makes SeaWorld Yas Island the first facility in the MENA region to receive this important certification.
The Global Humane certification confirms that SeaWorld upholds the highest standards of care for its animals through a rigorous and trusted evaluation process. SeaWorld parks in the United States have also maintained American Humane certification since the program began, demonstrating a long-standing commitment to animal welfare.
What types of marine creatures can I see at SeaWorld Yas Island?
SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi is home to over 150 species of marine animals, including sharks, rays, sea turtles, fish, reptiles, amphibians, and invertebrates. The park also features hundreds of birds such as puffins, murres, flamingos, and many others. These animals are cared for by a dedicated team of zoologists, veterinarians, nutritionists, and specialists who are passionate about animal health and well-being.
Globally, SeaWorld has rescued and rehabilitated more than 40,000 marine animals—working around the clock, every day of the year. Whether it’s a sick, injured, stranded, or orphaned animal, the goal is always the same: to heal and return them to the wild whenever possible. Nearly six decades of hands-on experience in animal care is what continues to guide this important mission.
Are there killer whales or orcas at SeaWorld Yas Island?
No, SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi does not have orcas or killer whales.
While orcas are not part of the park, SeaWorld still offers valuable opportunities to educate visitors about these remarkable animals and other marine species through engaging exhibits and experiences.
The park features up-close animal encounters and some of the most advanced and expansive aquariums in the region. With cutting-edge technology and interactive displays, SeaWorld Yas Island is designed to be a family-friendly destination that inspires curiosity, promotes education, and emphasizes the importance of marine life care and conservation.
Why did Miral choose to collaborate with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment?
Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive experiences, is committed to developing unique attractions through partnerships with organizations that share our vision and values.
Our collaboration with SeaWorld was a natural fit. With nearly 60 years of expertise in marine research, animal welfare, and conservation, SeaWorld brought unmatched knowledge to the table. Combined with Miral’s strength in building world-class destinations, this partnership made it possible to bring the next generation of marine life theme parks to the UAE.
In what ways does SeaWorld enhance the attractions on Yas Island?
SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi plays a key role in supporting Miral’s vision of making Yas Island a leading global destination. As a valuable addition to the island’s impressive lineup of attractions, it complements nearby experiences like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and CLYMB Abu Dhabi—enhancing Yas Island’s reputation as a top family entertainment hub.
Aligned with the UAE government’s sustainability and environmental goals, SeaWorld Yas Island also focuses on education. The park aims to inspire future generations to care for the ocean and consider careers in marine science through meaningful learning experiences and environmental awareness programs.
How does SeaWorld Yas Island benefit Abu Dhabi and Miral’s community efforts?
The Marine Life Theme Park is the latest mega attraction on Yas Island. Conveniently located just minutes from other popular destinations like Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and CLYMB Abu Dhabi, it adds even more excitement to the island’s world-class entertainment offerings.
Can I access SeaWorld Yas Island with my Yas Theme Parks Annual Pass?
You can now upgrade your existing valid Annual Pass to include SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Simply visit the Ticketing Counters at any Yas Island theme park or call us at 600 511115 for assistance.
If you’re looking to purchase a new Annual Pass, head over to our Annual Pass hub for more details and options.
Is it possible to host private events at SeaWorld Yas Island?
SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi offers a variety of dining spaces for guests to enjoy, along with private areas that can be reserved for birthdays, receptions, and other special events. The park also features iconic stadium-style seating for live shows and experiences. For more details, please visit our Group Bookings page.
Who manages and operates SeaWorld Yas Island in Abu Dhabi?
SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi was developed by Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations in Abu Dhabi.
Is SeaWorld Yas Island equipped for guests using wheelchairs?
Yes, SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi is fully wheelchair accessible. Guests can rent wheelchairs free of charge at the Guest Services counters located in Abu Dhabi Ocean. Wheelchairs are available for the duration of your visit, but please note that availability is limited and provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Are strollers or wheelchairs available for rent at SeaWorld?
Strollers are available to rent at the Guest Services counters in Abu Dhabi Ocean for AED 40 and can be used throughout your visit to SeaWorld. Availability is limited, so they are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Wheelchairs are also available free of charge from the same location and can be used for the entire duration of your visit. As with strollers, quantities are limited and provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
Where can I keep my personal items during a visit to SeaWorld Yas Island?
Lockers are available to rent in Abu Dhabi Ocean for a fee of AED 45 and can be used throughout your visit to SeaWorld Yas Island. Please note that locker availability is limited and provided on a first-come, first-served basis.
What guest services are available during a visit to SeaWorld Yas Island?
SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi provides two prayer and ablution rooms for both men and women. These facilities are located in the Abu Dhabi Ocean and Tropical Ocean areas.
For guests with sensory processing needs, a quiet room equipped with a sensory nook is available in Abu Dhabi Ocean. This space is designed to offer comfort, calm, and focus.
A dedicated mother’s lounge is also available in Abu Dhabi Ocean, offering a private and comfortable space for nursing and childcare.
Is there a dress code, and what should I wear when visiting SeaWorld Yas Island?
SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi is a fully indoor theme park. Each of the eight immersive realms is designed to closely mirror the natural habitats of the animals, including seasonal changes in lighting and temperature.
Some areas, like Tropical Ocean, feature warmer climates, while others—such as the Polar realms of Arctic and Antarctica—are kept cooler to match their environments. We recommend dressing in layers or bringing a jacket so you can stay comfortable as you explore different parts of the park. Climate-appropriate clothing is also available for purchase at the SeaWorld retail stores.
What is the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center in Yas Island, Abu Dhabi?
The Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center is the first dedicated facility of its kind in the region, focused on marine research, rescue, rehabilitation, and the return of marine animals to their natural habitats. It serves as a regional hub for marine science and plays a key role in advancing marine life conservation both locally and globally. The center’s rescue team is on call 24/7, every day of the year.
Led by experienced marine conservationists and ecologists, the center focuses on the unique marine ecosystems of the Arabian Gulf. It operates with the support of SeaWorld’s nearly 60-year legacy in animal care and research. This center joins three other SeaWorld rescue facilities in the United States and contributes to one of the largest marine animal rescue efforts in the world—having helped over 40,000 animals so far.
What is the main purpose of the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center?
The mission of the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center is to lead efforts in research, rescue, rehabilitation, return, and education that deepen public understanding of animal conservation. The center aims to protect the region’s marine wildlife, habitats, and ecosystems through meaningful programs that inspire lasting commitment to ocean conservation.
What does animal rescue and rehabilitation involve?
The Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center is equipped with advanced facilities to care for local marine wildlife, including rescue boats, specialized equipment, a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital, and a shared necropsy facility. Led by experts in rescue operations, the center is dedicated to the rescue, rehabilitation, and return of marine animals.
As part of building a strong Rescue Network, the center works closely with partners and local authorities to ensure marine animals receive the care they need and can safely return to their natural environments.
What are the educational goals of the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, and what programs are offered?
The Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center is dedicated to inspiring public awareness and encouraging educational institutions to take an active role in marine conservation. The center’s goal is to foster a strong commitment to protecting marine wildlife and to help develop the next generation of marine scientists and conservationists. Through partnerships with universities and academic institutions in the UAE, the center promotes greater understanding and advancement of marine sciences.
In collaboration with SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the center offers an educational program that includes workshops, lectures, and a dedicated curriculum to engage young learners in marine science and wildlife topics. It also hosts special events such as science talks and seminars featuring local and international marine experts. Students from around the world are welcomed to participate in research and study alongside the center’s team of professionals in marine biology and veterinary science.
As part of its outreach and conservation efforts, the center also organizes community programs like beach clean-ups, mangrove replanting, and other hands-on conservation projects that help protect marine ecosystems and create a positive impact on both nature and the local community.
What type of research is carried out at the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center?
The Research team at the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center leads both fundamental and applied studies focused on the marine ecology of the Arabian Gulf. Their work explores a range of important topics including marine biodiversity, ecosystem resilience, wildlife conservation, habitat restoration, fisheries, pollution, and marine animal health.
The center also undertakes practical restoration projects tied to ecosystem recovery, such as fish breeding, coral reproduction, and seagrass cultivation. Fieldwork is conducted across key marine habitats in Abu Dhabi’s waters, including mangroves, oyster beds, seagrass meadows, and coral reefs. One of the center’s major upcoming initiatives is a project aimed at developing seagrass cultivation methods to support large-scale restoration of this vital marine habitat across the UAE.
The center’s broader mission is to establish itself as a leader in marine science within the UAE, actively contributing to both local and international marine research and conservation efforts. Through collaborations, educational programs, research publications, training initiatives, and hosting visiting scientists, the center aims to enhance regional and global understanding of marine ecosystems.
How does the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center contribute to the UAE?
The Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center supports Abu Dhabi’s commitment to marine conservation by promoting awareness and education about marine life. One of its key goals is to inspire and nurture the next generation of marine scientists.
The center is also dedicated to building a strong regional rescue network. By working closely with partners and local authorities, it plays an active role in rescuing, rehabilitating, and returning marine animals to their natural habitats.
Why establish a research and rescue center in Abu Dhabi?
The Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center was established with the goal of becoming a regional leader in marine science and conservation. Deeply committed to protecting the Gulf’s environment and marine life, the center carries out a combination of research, rescue, rehabilitation, return, and educational programs that aim to raise public awareness and strengthen conservation efforts across the region.
As part of this mission, the center’s education program includes hands-on workshops and a dedicated curriculum designed to introduce younger generations to marine sciences and the rich diversity of marine wildlife.
Is the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center open for public visits?
Unlike the SeaWorld Yas Island Marine Life Theme Park, the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center is not open for general public visits. Access to the center is by invitation or appointment only. This dedicated facility functions as an advanced hub for marine science, focusing on research, rescue, and rehabilitation initiatives.