Yas Waterworld opens largest expansion yet with over 20 new rides
New ‘Lost City’ Zone brings thrills, culture and extended hours
ABU DHABI: Yas Waterworld Yas Island has officially launched its largest expansion to date – a brand-new 13,445-square-metre zone called Bandit’s Village.
The immersive addition features more than 20 new rides, slides, and interactive attractions inspired by Arabian folklore, extending the park’s total ride count to over 60. The expansion opens to the public from July 1 and includes extended daily operating hours.
The launch event, held on June 30, was attended by Saleh Mohamed Al Geziry, Director General of Tourism at the Department of Culture and Tourism, Abu Dhabi, and Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, alongside VIPs, media, and influencers. Guests were welcomed with a theatrical performance that brought the park’s legendary pearl tale to life, complete with laser shows, holograms, and live actors.
According to Al Zaabi, the summer launch was deliberate, part of a broader strategy to position Yas Island as a year-round entertainment destination. “July and August are as busy as December,” he said, citing similar summer launches of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi in past years.
Immersive experiences
Bandit’s Village expands the park’s original narrative, The Legend of the Lost Pearl, through a themed zone titled “Lost City.” The storytelling continues through attractions that blend myth with water-based adventure. During the ceremony, performers dressed as guardians and bandits reenacted scenes in a cave-like tunnel filled with steam, transporting guests into a world of ancient Arabian legends.
Among the new attractions are Al Falaj Race, the region’s first side-by-side dueling tube raft ride, and Bahamut’s Rage, an adrenaline-pumping log flume experience. For younger guests, the park introduces Al Sahel Junior – the region’s first mini zero-gravity boomerango ride – along with Dawwama Junior, a child-friendly version of the iconic vortex ride.
Additional highlights include Al Mafras, a desert-themed water slide with splash landing; Red Dunes, a twisting aqua tube for younger thrill-seekers; and Sadaf Swirl, the region’s first high-speed spinning raft ride. Families can also enjoy Mataha Madness, a disorienting raft experience designed for group fun.
Local heritage and family focus
The new rides are not only designed for thrill but also carry cultural significance. Al Zaabi emphasised that the names and themes are inspired by UAE heritage, aiming to give tourists an authentic local flavour. “All the names are fulfilled our heritage,” he said. “We want people to see the culture of our heritage.”
The park’s design also responds to guest feedback. “We tailored and designed this experience… based on feedback we received from our customers,” said Al Zaabi. This includes expanded indoor seating and new food and beverage options, designed to improve visitor comfort during peak summer heat.
A key focus of the expansion is inclusivity. “You can see the majority of the slides are the best – one for junior, one for senior,” Al Zaabi noted. The aim is to offer an experience where children and parents can enjoy side-by-side adventures.
Future growth plans
In addition to the current expansion, Miral has committed to adding at least one new attraction per year over the next decade. “There will be another area we’ll open next year,” Al Zaabi confirmed. Plans also include expanding accommodation options, with new hotels in development, including an extension of the Warner Bros. hotel managed by Hilton.
The long-term goal is to extend guest stays on Yas Island. “We were at 1.789 nights years back. Today, we are at 2.4. I’d love to reach 2.9, 3-night stay,” Al Zaabi said.
Yas Waterworld, recently named Middle East’s Leading Water Park 2024, is leveraging both innovation and tradition to set new benchmarks for theme parks in the region.