Abu Dhabi’s Warner Bros World becomes Middle East first to win applause award
Landmark recognition places Yas Island attraction among global entertainment giants
ABU DHABI – Warner Bros World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi has secured one of the attractions industry's highest honours, becoming the first theme park in the Middle East to receive the 2026 Liseberg Applause Award.
The recognition marks a milestone for both the indoor theme park and Yas Island’s ambitions as a global entertainment destination. Announced by Miral, the achievement places the attraction among a select group of internationally celebrated parks.
Widely regarded as the oldest and most prestigious award in the attractions sector, the Liseberg Applause Award recognises excellence in management, operations and creative achievement. Since its launch in 1980, only 22 theme parks globally have received the honour, with just one attraction selected in each award cycle.
Global honour
The award was formally presented during the IAAPA Honors gala ceremony in Xcaret, Mexico. It was accepted on behalf of the Warner Bros. World team by Hind Galadari, General Manager of Warner Bros. World, and Daniel Wills, Executive Director of Projects Delivery at Miral.
Dr Mohammad Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group Chief Executive Officer of Miral, described the recognition as a proud moment, highlighting the creativity and commitment behind the attraction’s immersive experiences. He said the achievement also reflected Miral’s continued efforts to strengthen Yas Island’s standing as a leading global destination for leisure and entertainment, while supporting Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Vision 2030 goals.
The award forms part of the International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Honors programme and is judged by senior leaders from across the attractions industry.
The latest recognition places Warner Bros. World alongside a distinguished list of previous winners. Recent recipients include Universal Studios Japan, honoured in 2025, Siam Park in 2024, Tokyo DisneySea in 2022, and Xcaret Park in 2018.
Next chapter
Developed in partnership with Warner Bros Discovery Global Experiences, Warner Bros World remains the region’s largest indoor theme park. The attraction features six immersive lands, combining state-of-the-art rides, themed environments and live entertainment experiences.
The park is also preparing for a major new phase of expansion. Future plans include the highly anticipated Harry Potter-themed land as well as two new DC-inspired rides, adding another layer of story-driven attractions to one of Yas Island’s biggest entertainment destinations.