SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, the world’s largest indoor marine life theme park, has become a major name in global tourism since opening in May 2023. Now, United Parks & Resorts CEO Marc Swanson says the concept will inspire two new projects overseas.
The company, formerly known as SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, is in discussions with multiple international partners and expects to sign two memorandums of understanding before the end of 2025. Both projects will follow the same development approach as the Abu Dhabi site.
Model of Success from Yas Island
Developed in partnership with Abu Dhabi-based Miral, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi spans 183,000 square metres across five indoor levels. The attraction houses more than 150 species of marine animals, spread across themed realms designed to immerse visitors in ocean habitats. It also features the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Centre, supporting marine science and conservation efforts.
The collaboration followed a capital-light model, where Miral developed and operates the park, while United Parks & Resorts licensed the SeaWorld brand and provided strategic expertise. The project combined global brand recognition with local market insight using this approach—a formula now being replicated internationally.
International Expansion Plans
While the company has not revealed the exact locations of the upcoming parks, the CEO indicated they will closely mirror the Abu Dhabi concept. By keeping the investment model light for the brand owner, the focus can remain on high-quality visitor experiences, while regional partners handle large-scale infrastructure.
Since its opening, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi has attracted a diverse audience of tourists, residents, and school groups, proving the demand for immersive, educational entertainment in the region. The success story has made it a model for similar ventures around the world.
Global Appeal and Local Relevance
The decision to replicate the Abu Dhabi model speaks to the UAE’s rising profile as a leader in large-scale leisure and tourism projects. With Yas Island already home to attractions such as Warner Bros. World and Ferrari World, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi has added a year-round indoor experience that is particularly valuable in the region’s climate.
For Dubai and the wider UAE, such projects strengthen the nation’s position as a hub for family-oriented entertainment and tourism. They also bring potential opportunities in hospitality, events, retail, and conservation sectors.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s design focuses on more than spectacle—it delivers education, conservation awareness, and interactive experiences. Visitors can enjoy close encounters with marine life, immersive digital displays, and rides tailored to all ages. These qualities have been key to its success and will likely be incorporated into the new parks.
Industry observers believe that the capital-light strategy makes this model adaptable to diverse markets, allowing international partners to benefit from the SeaWorld brand without bearing the full cost of development.
Details on where the two new parks will be built are expected to emerge once agreements are finalised later this year. The anticipation is already sparking interest across tourism and leisure sectors worldwide. If the success of the Abu Dhabi park is any indication, these new destinations could become instant icons in their respective regions.
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