Tag Archives: attractions

IAAPA Middle East Trade Summit 2024 on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi concluded with participation from 400 attendees and 45 exhibitors. Organized in collaboration with Miral, the creator of immersive experiences and destinations, and the Abu Dhabi Exhibition Convention and Exhibition Bureau, the Summit hosted two days of insightful education sessions featuring 27 international experts. Industry leaders from globally renowned entities explored innovative strategies in destination development and management, operational efficiency, and guest satisfaction to foster continued growth across the region’s attractions and theme parks industry. The Summit opened with a welcome keynote address by Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral. Additional speakers included Scott O’Neil, CEO, Merlin Entertainments; Ahmad Hussain, COO, Dubai Holding Entertainment; and Don Potts, President, Qiddiya Investment Company; with many more industry leaders from Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), The National Aquarium Abu Dhabi – Al Qana, Atlantis Resorts, Majid Al Futtaim, Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN), amongst others. A series of interactive sessions and workshops discussed trending topics like Artificial Intelligence (AI), digital transformation, sustainability, and innovative attractions. A selection of guided facility tours, or “EDUTours”, welcomed trade visitors to Yas Island’s world-class theme parks and attractions, enabling them to gain valuable insights into the operations and creative processes behind these leading attractions. Participants had the opportunity to visit the recently opened SeaWorld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi; Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi; Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi; and Yas Waterworld Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. The Summit also presented the inaugural edition of the IAAPA Ride Safety Report, specifically tailored for the Middle East region. During the Summit, IAAPA announced it will be expanding its presence in the region …

Miral has marked significant progress across its ongoing sustainability commitments, with an aim to accelerate positive transformation across the leisure, entertainment, and tourism industry. Most recently, a 524-kilowatt peak (kWp) solar photovoltaic (PV) project was announced on Yas Bay Waterfront, with 920 solar modules designed to offset 450 tonnes of annual CO2 emissions at the destination. Earlier this year, Miral inaugurated Abu Dhabi’s largest solar rooftop project at Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, incorporating approximately 16,000 solar modules, producing nearly 40 percent of its annual energy demand with a 7-megawatt peak (MWp) capacity. The frameworks follow a similar agreement between Miral and Emerge to deploy on-site solar energy systems at SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi with a capacity of 8.4 megawatts (MW). In parallel, nearly 150 rooftop solar panels significantly reduce energy consumption across Miral’s three hotels, Hilton Abu Dhabi, Yas Island and WB Abu Dhabi, Curio Collection by Hilton.Miral’s initiatives closely align with various national strategies for sustainability, such as achieving Net Zero by 2050, delivering on the outcomes of the recent 28th Conference of the Parties (COP28), and advancing the UAE Union Aspiration for sustainability. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO, Miral, commented: “Sustainability remains an integral part of Miral’s vision to transform the leisure, entertainment, and tourism sector. Guided by the UAE’s vision to transition to a more sustainable, low-carbon economy, our continued commitment to combat climate change is testament to our efforts in creating a sustainable future for the next generation. Together with our partners, we will continue to become a more socially responsible organisation that significantly strengthens Abu Dhabi’s sustainability and eco-tourism ambitions and accelerates the Emirate’s long-term economic growth.” Miral’s commitment to sustainability is …

The Philippines is a land of unparalleled biodiversity and enchanting beauty. Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, the country beckons those who seek awe-inspiring experiences through its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, towering mountains and vibrant coral reefs. Islands and Pristine Beaches The Philippines is world famous for its breathtaking beaches and crystalline waters. Feel the powdery white sands of Boracay beneath your toes, explore the remote coves of Palawan’s El Nido, and be mesmerized by the pink sands of the Great Santa Cruz Island in Zamboanga. You can also discover hidden lagoons, dive into vibrant underwater worlds, and bask in the sun’s warm embrace. Majestic Volcanoes and Mountains Nature enthusiasts and adventurers will find paradise among the Philippines’ majestic peaks, which serve as one of the best places to witness the sun rise or set. Opt to ascend to the summit of Mount Apo, the highest peak in the country, or traverse the dramatic landscapes of Mount Pulag and Mount Mayon. Find a moment of calm and peace from atop these peaks and be rewarded with panoramic vistas that defy description. Underground Wonders A world of mysteries awaits beneath the surface. One can delight in exploring the subterranean marvels of the Philippines, such as the Puerto Princesa Underground River in Palawan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at the intricate limestone formations and underground rivers that wind through captivating cave systems. Divers and snorkelling enthusiasts will be enthralled by the Philippines’ vibrant marine ecosystems. The Tubbataha Reefs Natural Park boasts a dazzling array of marine life, while the Apo Reef Natural Park is a haven for divers seeking encounters with manta rays and sharks. Unique Biodiversity The Philippines is …

The PIF-owned Saudi Entertainment Ventures (SEVEN) has announced the launch of construction of an entertainment destination located in Saudi Arabia, with a value of SAR1+ billion. The complex will transform the entertainment landscape of the Tabuk region, with about 78% of its space designated for entertainment, 14% for cafes and restaurants, and 8% for stores. Amenities will include an advanced 12-hole indoor golf course offering bespoke experiences, a modern 10-track bowling alley, and a 10-screen cinema hall, according to a company statement. Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Dawood, Chairman of the Board of Directors of SEVEN, said: “The destination will add a qualitative leap in the entertainment scene of the region by providing a wide choice of entertainment attractions and distinctive experiences.” The project is being designed as an integrated village, with an innovative water tower inspired by the agricultural heritage of the Tabuk region at its center. This will connect to open community spaces, including gardens, parks and sports fields. The development reflects PIF’s strategy to develop and localize a variety of sectors, including entertainment, leisure and sports, to create a more vibrant society and improve the lives of everyone in Saudi Arabia. It also aligns with Vision 2030’s goal of positioning Saudi Arabia among the world’s top tourist destinations.​

Winter in the UAE begins with the Hatta season, this area is the latest developed tourist area with expectations of greater visitor numbers this year. Last year Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum approved six new tourism projects in Hatta as part of the Hatta development plan. The projects announced by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum include the establishment of 504km-long chairlifts, Dubai mountain peak at an altitude of 1,300 metres, Hatta sustainable waterfalls, a world-class hotel, in addition to Hiking trails to the highest peak in Dubai (Jebel Umm Al Nisour, at 1,300 metres). Hatta residents will also be allowed to build 200 holiday homes to support domestic tourism in district. “In 2016, we started our development project in Hatta. Tourists doubled from 60,000 to one million in 2020, and the new projects by the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority will provide 500 jobs for young people of Hatta. The new holiday homes will provide an annual income of more than Dh100 million for the people of the region. A decent life for our citizens will remain our goal in all our projects,” Sheikh Mohammed said. “Hatta is a model for small cities in the region. It has turned within a short period of time into one of the most important tourist destinations in the emirate, thanks to its different lifestyle. The development and tourism projects in Hatta will have a significant impact on promoting national tourism and providing a distinctive tourism and cultural experience for visitors and the community,” Sheikh Mohammed added. The ‘Dubai Mountain Peak’ and ‘Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls’ project, which will …