Last month, I went for a staycation in Abu Dhabi. But our first stop was the enchanting realm of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi. Situated strategically in the vibrant heart of Yas Island, this marine sanctuary has rapidly emerged as an essential stop for families seeking unparalleled aquatic adventures and fun. Ever since its grand opening in July 2023, it has attracted visitors with its immersive attractions, fun rides and mesmerizing aquarium. Operating daily, the park is open from 10 AM to 7 PM. Arrive punctually, and you’ll have plenty of time to bask in its wonders. Dive in!
Unveiling Our Marine Adventure: An Unexpected Journey of Boundless Fun and Learning
As we navigated through its myriad aquatic displays, mesmerizing aquarium and thrilling rides, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the magic of it all. Stay with me as I recount the highlights and share an in-depth review of our unforgettable escapade at this extraordinary destination.
First, was a stop to the Abu Dhabi Ocean, It’s a section within SeaWorld, a dedicated space showcasing marine life native to the waters of Abu Dhabi. Upon entering SeaWorld, friendly staff eagerly guided us towards the Abu Dhabi Ocean exhibit. This particular area emphasizes the diverse aquatic species found in the UAE’s waters. Inside the tunnel aquarium, we marveled at Seahawk turtles, dugongs, and various fish species. Yet, what truly captivated my children were the mangroves—a touch pool teeming with sharks, stingrays, and fascinating invertebrates.
Visitors are invited to gently touch the carpet sharks and stingrays using only two fingers, with a mandatory hand-washing requirement beforehand. The sensation of interacting with these creatures evokes the feeling of oceanic diving. Additionally, it serves as an educational opportunity for children, allowing them to engage with marine life firsthand and deepen their understanding of these fascinating creatures.
We had the opportunity to touch the creatures and gain insights into their habitats and dietary habits. Additionally, the area features the Al Naham theater, which presents captivating pearl diving shows for visitors. For those keen on exploring Emirati cuisine, don’t miss out on Luqaimat, a delightful sweet fried dough available for purchase at Lugaima, a convenient grab-and-go shop.
Our next stop led us to the captivating Tropical Ocean. We began our journey at the Dolphin Habitat, where a lively dolphin show unfolded in the tropical amphitheater. The performance was short and my kids found it somewhat repetitive. But it undoubtedly holds charm for first-time viewers, offering a fun and entertaining experience. What truly stood out to me in this section was the ambiance.
We also took a moment to visit the Flamingo Point—a delightful place where pink flamingos flocked and rested. We spotted a lot of pink flamingos mingling with each other. And they are undeniably adorable and perhaps one of the park’s best spots for a photo-op.
Then, we embarked on a journey through the Polar Ocean and Arctic realms! My son, a devoted fan of penguins and polar bears, loved the sights of Gentoo penguins, walruses, sea otters, and puffins.
Fun fact: puffins often get a penguin mix-up Yes, they seemed similar, and people are sometimes confused with these two! So, check them out there! Meanwhile, my daughter and I plunged into excitement with the Hypersphere 360 ride. It’s a thrilling underwater adventure that takes you to an educational tour about the oceans around the world. We waited for about half an hour, but it was worth it.
We also enjoyed a variety of live shows, but the sea lion performance truly stole the spotlight. It seamlessly blended fun and hilarity, delighting my kids with both its comedic skits and the playful antics of the sea lions. We were completely captivated by the show, and there wasn’t a dull moment. So, this is a must-do activity there.
At Sea World, the thrill is real! By afternoon, we ventured into Microocean’s aquatic wonderland. This part of the park boasts an underwater theme. So, imagine “glow in the dark” rides illuminating the skies and the floors! Our first stop was the Turtle Twist—a whimsical ascent on a turtle-themed ride perfect for all ages. Then, we hopped into OctoZoom, a boat adventure that sways you side-to-side like ocean waves. Regrettably, we didn’t have the chance to try the eel racer, a compact indoor coaster. The wait was about 60 minutes and we were all tired. But still this escapade was a delight to my kids.
Top Dining Spot to Experience at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi
Here’s my tip: Opt for a dining experience at SeaWorld by making your way to Umberto’s. This Italian restaurant offers mouthwatering pizza, pasta, and the delightful Tiramisu. Yet, what truly mesmerized us were the breathtaking views above and below the water in the penguin habitat. During the feeding session, my son Adam was overjoyed to enjoy his meal amidst the enchanting backdrop of his favorite animals.
