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    Marriott Hotels and Manchester United offer Suite of Dreams contest

    Marriott Hotels® – part of Marriott Bonvoy’s® portfolio of 30 extraordinary hotel brands, along with Manchester United, one of the world’s most popular sports teams, are offering fans the chance to win an overnight stay at Old Trafford – an experience only made possible with Marriott Hotels and Manchester United. By entering the Marriott Hotels Suite of Dreams contest, fans will share their favorite part of a hotel stay – whether indulging in room service, unwinding with a spa treatment, or experiencing new cultures through the hotel’s art of hosting. The lucky fan and their guest will have the opportunity to wake up on matchday at Old Trafford, in the comfort of the Marriott Hotels’ M Club hospitality suite, which has been transformed into one of the brand’s guest rooms, overlooking the legendary pitch.
    The winner of the Marriott Hotels Suite of Dreams global sweepstakes will enjoy an extraordinary prize with an overnight stay the night before Manchester United’s Premier League home match against Aston Villa on April 30, 2023. Bringing signature Marriott Hotels experiences to Old Trafford, the winners will take part in several activities synonymous with the iconic hotel brand, in addition to behind-the-scenes stadium experiences. These include a night in the Suite with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the stadium and featuring the brand’s signature guest room elements including its premium bed experience; in-suite dining experiences; a private museum and stadium tour; interact with stadium announcer Alan Keegan; matchday tickets and hospitality; and mix and mingling with club legends throughout.“Collaborating with Manchester United to bring the Marriott Hotels experience inside Old Trafford is just one of the ways we enliven the extraordinary Marriott Bonvoy portfolio with the popular sports team,” said Brian Povinelli, Senior Vice President, Brand, Loyalty & Portfolio Marketing, Marriott International. “We’re excited to be creating the Marriott Hotels Suite of Dreams again in this iconic setting, giving a once-in-a-lifetime chance for the winner to wake up in the home of Manchester United and experience the wonderful hospitality of Marriott Hotels.”
    In its fourth year partnering with Manchester United, Marriott Bonvoy continues to offer exclusive access to football fans, travelers, and members of the award-winning travel program including:
    Marriott Bonvoy’s in-stadium ‘Seat of Dreams’Exclusive Marriott Bonvoy MomentsTM experiences for membersIn- and out of-stadium activations with Marriott Hotels, the flagship brand within the Marriott Bonvoy portfolio. This includes the M Club Suite at Old Trafford, designed in the style of the brand’s M Clubs, a dedicated space for Marriott Bonvoy members to relax and connect at Marriott Hotels around the worldAccess to interviews and one-on-one conversation with playersMarriott Bonvoy Moments are currently live through the end of the season, including an incredible “Play on the Pitch” experience where members can participate in a football match at Old Trafford Stadium coached by Manchester United Legends. Experiences for the 2023-2024 season will be released this summer on moments.marriottbonvoy.com.
    To enter, visit ManUtd.com/SuiteofDreams and complete a submission before 11:59 EST on April 6, 2023. See website for full terms and conditions.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Wolseley Hospitality Group brings European grand café tradition to Bangkok with pop-up Café Wolseley

    The Wolseley Hospitality Group, owner and operator of some of London’s best-loved restaurants including the famed The Wolseley on Piccadilly and The Delaunay in Aldwych, is bringing its distinguished European fare to Bangkok for a limited time.From 18 April 2023, Café Wolseley, the group’s first venture outside London and a reference to its London flagship, will delight Bangkok gastronomes and foodies in European grand café tradition when it opens at Madison Restaurant at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel for three months.
    The eatery combines British heritage with European grandeur and serves Wolseley classics together with new additions.  Diners can expect a menu brimming with classic European fare, from Dressed Dorset Crab of fresh picked English crab with brown crab mayonnaise and lemon; to The Wolseley’s Coq au Vin of five-day marinated, red wine braised chicken with pancetta, pearl onions and button mushrooms; and Crème Brûlée of muscovado caramelised set vanilla custard.
    Starter highlights include Petit Plateau de Fruits de Mer, a selection of oysters and shellfish from Rungis Market in Paris served on crushed ice with lemon and shallot vinegar; Steak Tartare of hand chopped rump steak enhanced with a spicy relish, cornichons, and capers; and Escargots à la Bourguignonne au Pastis of escargots in the shell, garlic, and parsley butter, finished with Pernod.
    A Wolseley menu staple of egg dishes include Omelette Arnold Bennett, a parmesan glazed flat omelette with smoked haddock, cream, and parmesan; and Soufflé Suisse, a twice cooked cheese soufflé with mushroom and parmesan cream sauce and chives.On the main course menu, classic dishes from Scotland to England and from Germany to Hungary include Goulash and Spätzle, a diced beef casserole with pancetta, peppers, tomato and hot paprika, finished with sour cream and gherkins; Pan-roast Fillet of Loch Duart Salmon, a Scottish salmon fillet pan-roasted in the oven with wilted spinach and a lobster bisque sauce; Wiener Holstein, a pork schnitzel with a fried egg, anchovies and a lemon and caper butter; and Whole Native Lobster, a steamed whole English lobster with sea vegetables, parsley butter and medium cut chips.
    The sweet course is deliciously presented with classic Apple Strudle of spiced apples and dried fruits encased in filo pastry with a calvados cream; Mixed Berry Pavlova of light and chewy meringue filled with fresh seasonal berries with a strawberry compote, strawberry purée, and whipped cream; and Coupe Lucian of pistachio, hazelnut and almond nougatine ice creams, whipped cream, and butterscotch sauce.ADVERTISEMENTCafé Wolseley in Bangkok is helmed by chef David Stevens, Group Executive Chef at The Wolseley Hospitality Group and former Head Chef at The Wolseley in London.  The native Australian’s illustrious culinary career took him from Michelin-starred establishments including Fleur de Sel in England; Chateau de Montreuil in France; and Dolder Grand in Switzerland to The Ivy in London before starting his own business, Proof is in the Pudding.  Stevens joined The Wolseley in London in 2013 as Head Pastry Chef before becoming Head Chef in 2017.
    Café Wolseley is located in the Parichart Court at Anantara Siam Bangkok Hotel and is open Monday through Saturday for lunch from 12h00 to 14h30 and for dinner from 18h00 to 22h30, and on Sundays for dinner from 18h00 to 22h30.  For more information or to make a reservation, contact Anantara Siam on telephone 02 431 9497 or email [email protected]

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    ENNISMORE ANNOUNCES MONDRIAN ABU DHABI – THE BRAND’S FIRST LOCATION IN THE UAE, OPENING IN 2024

    Ennismore, the fastest-growing lifestyle hospitality company, today announces it will open Mondrian Abu Dhabi, the brand’s first project in the United Arab Emirates, in collaboration with Al Hazoom Group.Opening in 2024 and located in the city’s bustling downtown area alongside the Abu Dhabi canal, Mondrian Abu Dhabi will be a spectacular hotel providing waterfront views overlooking both Reem Island and Maryah Island and direct views of the city skyline. The project has already broken ground and will join the Mondrian portfolio of seven operating hotels.
    The new Mondrian Abu Dhabi will feature 221 rooms and 80 serviced apartments, as well as six unique food and beverage venues, a ballroom, four meeting rooms, a spa, a swimming pool, a kid’s club, a retail area, and world-class fitness area, making it a welcomed addition to Abu Dhabi’s buzzing city-center. Mondrian Abu Dhabi will offer a chic crystal-clear lagoon where guests can enjoy a beverage while soaking in the sun. The lagoon will boast vast ocean views and feature an infinity pool design, lounges, and daybeds surrounding the water’s edge. 
    Designed by award-winning interior architect Tristan Du Plessis, Mondrian Abu Dhabi will be as fantastical as it is timelessly imaginative and inviting. It will expertly capture the clean and contemporary aesthetic of the Middle East while seamlessly integrating the warmth and comfort embedded in the DNA of all Mondrian properties. A short distance from the city’s most popular destinations, including The Corniche, Abu Dhabi Mall, The Galleria, and the Sorbonne University, the property will be surrounded by many leisure and cultural attractions, making it an idyllic destination for discerning business travelers and tourists.
    The Chairman of Al Hazoom Group said, “It is with immense pride and excitement that we align our vision with Ennismore to introduce the first Mondrian hotel in the United Arab Emirates. We are honored to have the opportunity to contribute our unique establishment to Abu Dhabi’s thriving cultural scene while keeping to Mondrian’s iconic aesthetics. Mondrian Abu Dhabi embodies bold, contemporary design and will be host to some of the most discerning culinary and culture-seekers from all over the world.”
    Chadi Farhat, Brand Chief Operating Officer of Mondrian at Ennismore, said, “We are very proud to collaborate with Al Hazoom Group to bring the iconic Mondrian brand to Abu Dhabi in this breathtaking waterfront location. Mondrian Abu Dhabi will undoubtedly become one of the most sought-after destinations for lifestyle, hospitality, culinary, and mixology experiences for locals and travelers alike. With an imaginative design by Tristan Du Pleiss, Mondrian Abu Dhabi will certainly be a feast for the senses.”ADVERTISEMENTWith the success of SLS Dubai, Hyde Dubai, and 25hours Hotel One Central – and the upcoming opening of SO/ Uptown Dubai – Ennismore further solidifies its reputation as a leader in lifestyle hospitality across the United Arab Emirates. In 2023, Ennismore is set to open 30 hotels globally, including Maison Delano Paris, France; Mama Shelter, Rennes, France; SO/ Uptown Dubai, UAE; 21C Museum Hotel St. Louis, USA; TRIBE Bangkok, Thailand; Mondrian Singapore, Singapore; The Hoxton, Charlottenburg, Germany and Mondrian and Hyde Ibiza, Spain.

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    COSTA PRESENTS C|CLUB 2023 CRUISES

    Costa Cruises presents the C|Club 2023 cruises, two unique event-cruises with a programme of activities designed exclusively for members of the Italian company’s loyalty programme.These two cruises are already special from the itineraries: fourteen days on board of Costa Favolosa in June discovering the most beautiful destinations in Norway, to the legendary Lofoten Islands, illuminated by the midnight sun, and in September among the colours, scents and flavours of Tunisia and Morocco. The first departure is scheduled for 25 June, the second for 23 September 2023.
    The programme of activities for C|Club members includes exclusive gastronomic experiences, new excursions, shows, themed parties, surprises, as well as special guests.
    On the first of the two cruises, bound for Norway, chefs Bruno Barbieri and Ángel León, who together with Hélène Darroze sign Costa Cruises’ gastronomic excellence, will be on board the Costa Favolosa, starring in show cooking and demonstrations, with dishes never offered before. In particular, Ángel León will focus on cuisine linked to the sea, while Bruno Barbieri on how to propose a more sustainable cuisine, avoiding waste. Other taste-related events will be dedicated to specific on-board gastronomic proposals and the discovery of local culinary traditions.
    Every evening there will be a party on board, with great shows and performances by internationally renowned artists. For example, the dIRE sTRATO cover band will offer a musical journey through the atmosphere and sound of the legendary British rock band Dire Straits.  Then, the cruise will propose theme parties and fun competitions between guests.
    The itinerary of this first C|Club cruise heads north to discover the wonders of Norway: spectacular fjords, villages nestled between green mountains and blue sea, and the picturesque Lofoten Islands. Beautiful destinations, illuminated by the unique phenomenon of the midnight sun, when the light never sets. To discover the traditions of these locations and experience them like a true “local”, new shore excursions have been specially designed. And on board, a travel expert will reveal to guests many curiosities and anecdotes to “taste” each visit.The experiences that will be offered to C|Club members are truly unique: in Stavanger the most inaccessible fjords can be explored by speedboat; Lofoten can be discovered by kayak in the evening, with the sun still high; from Åndalsnes one can choose a tour to an alpine hut to taste typical Norwegian products; in Trondheim it can be experienced a “Viking’s day”.ADVERTISEMENTThe programme of C|Club 2023 cruises on board of Costa Favolosa will be further enriched with surprises, new activities and exceptional guests. In particular, the second of the two cruises, in September, will set off to discover the most beautiful and characteristic cities of the western Mediterranean, with two unmissable destinations, Morocco and Tunisia, for a real journey of the senses. Among the planned calls are Tunis, Tangier, and Casablanca, which – with a call of a day and a half – will lead to Marrakech. And then Cartagena, Malaga, Cadiz, Barcelona, Marseilles, Savona, Civitavecchia/Rome, and Palermo, among cities of art, ancient ruins, beaches, colourful markets, traditions, and spicy flavours.
    To stay up-to-date on C|Club 2023 cruises, just visit the Costa Cruises websites. Bookings are available in travel agencies or also through the Costa Cruises websites. To participate in the members-only programme, all you need to do is register for the C|Club before making your reservation, via a special section of the Costa Cruises websites.
    Costa Favolosa C|CLUB 2023 Itinerary – 25 June 2023Ijumiden (The Netherlands), navigation, Stavanger (Norway), Molde (Norway), Andalsnes (Norway), sailing, Bodo (Norway), Narvik (Norway), Leknes (Norway) with one-and-a-half day call, navigation, Trondheim (Norway), Maloy (Norway), sailing, Bremerhaven (Germany), Ijumiden (The Netherlands).
    Costa Favolosa C|CLUB 2023 Itinerary – 23 September 2023Savona (Italy), Civitavecchia/Rome (Italy), Palermo (Italy), Tunis, navigation, Cartagena (Spain), Tangier (Morocco), Casablanca (Morocco) with one and a half day call, Cadiz (Spain), Malaga (Spain), navigation, Barcelona (Spain), Marseille (France), Savona (Italy).

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    New research from ABTA shows demand for foreign holidays is back to pre-pandemic levels

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    New research from ABTA shows demand for foreign holidays is back to pre-pandemic levels

    New figures from ABTA – The Travel Association show that 62% of people have been on a foreign holiday since the lifting of the UK’s COVID travel restrictions1.
    Today marks 12 months since the UK Government lifted the UK’s remaining travel restrictions on 18 March 2022. The change on this date meant that all travellers, regardless of vaccination status, no longer needed to take any tests or complete any forms on their return to the UK – making it easier and cheaper for UK holidaymakers returning from an overseas break.
    The new data also show that the demand for travel is now back in line with pre-pandemic levels and is a huge bounce back from the lows of 16% in 2021 when travel was at its most restricted because of measures to control the pandemic2.
    Many of ABTA’s tour operator and travel agent members are reporting record-breaking sales since the start of the year. ABTA’s latest data, which show two-thirds (65%) of people are planning to go on holiday abroad in the next 12 months, indicate that this buoyant demand is set to edge further upward, with more than a third (37%) of people having already booked a break3.
    ABTA says there has been a ‘freedom factor’ driving the return of travel which perhaps explains why, despite the cost-of-living challenges, people are still keen to book a foreign trip. ABTA’s new survey suggests that, for the majority of people, holidays are the ‘non-essential’ item they want to prioritise this year, with 54% saying they’ll cut back on other non-essential costs so they can still afford to go on holiday4.ADVERTISEMENTA strong travel and tourism sector is highly beneficial to the wider UK economy. ABTA research finds that international travel has the potential to lead the UK’s economic recovery, with the outbound sector expected to grow 15% by 2027, outperforming the wider UK economy5.
    Mark Tanzer, ABTA Chief Executive said: 
    “What a difference a year makes. One of the sectors hardest hit by the pandemic is now back, and in a big way, with demand for travel reaching pre-pandemic levels.
    “Both our research and reports of strong booking levels from our members show that holidays remain a spending priority for the year ahead, despite the current squeeze on finances. On the whole, people are preferring to adapt their travel plans rather than scrap them entirely, primarily by going all-inclusive, booking early, or holidaying outside of busy periods.
    “A clear focus for the sector will be to continue the recovery by building a more sustainable industry, ensuring people and communities gain the economic and social positives it brings while addressing environmental challenges. Government support in this area will be critical in helping with hard to tackle issues such as decarbonising aviation.”
    (1, 3, & 4) ABTA consumer sentiment research, conducted in February 2023 by Savanta (www.savanta.com) with a nationally representative sample of 2,000 consumers.
    (5) Source is ABTA’s joint report with UKInbound, International Travel: Powering the UK economy, which outlines the value of international travel to the UK economy in terms of supporting jobs, economic contributions and taxes paid to HM Treasury.

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    New rail service between Belgium and France

    Belgium’s Lineas and DFDS are joining forces to transport containers and trailers from the port of Gothenburg via Ghent at North Sea Port on rail to Lyon – and vice versa. It will create a connection between Sweden, Belgium, and France.DFDS transports cargo between the port of Gothenburg six times a week and its terminal at Ghent’s Sifferdok. This short sea service now connects with the intermodal train between Ghent and the Port Edouard Hérriot in Lyon. At the start, this train from Europe’s largest private rail freight operator, Lineas, runs three times a week. Starting in June, the frequency will be increased to five trips weekly.
    450 trains per year
    The shift of this cargo transport from road to rail between Ghent and the important industrial region of Lyon accounts for 450 trains per year and 800 trailers/containers.
    Multimodal port North Sea Port
    North Sea Port continues building on a sustainable multimodal port with this low-emission rail freight. “With the combined transport between Gothenburg, Ghent and Lyon, North Sea Port manages further to strengthen itself as a multimodal port in Western Europe,” said Daan Schalck, CEO of North Sea Port. Especially since cargo arrives in Ghent by road, seagoing vessel and barge from Antwerp, Rotterdam and Moerdijk.ADVERTISEMENT

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    Experience #AlltheDisneyThrills at Walt Disney World Resort

    In 2023, Walt Disney World Resort is the place to embrace thrills of all kinds. Exciting new experiences set to debut this year include one of the fastest coasters at any Disney theme park, a new restaurant to savor, the continued transformation of EPCOT, returning nighttime spectaculars filling night skies throughout the resort and so much more.Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Continues Through March 31
    It’s your last chance to experience a party fifty years in the making as the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary celebration will conclude March 31, 2023. Make plans to visit now to see Mickey Mouse and his pals in their EARidescent finery one last time and enjoy all the special sights, tastes and merchandise that mark this momentous event.
    New and Returning Character Greetings – All Year

    New and returning character experiences are sure to thrill guests of all ages. Beginning April 22, Moana will greet fellow voyagers on Discovery Island at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park – just in time for the park’s 25th anniversary. Fans of Figment will get the chance to hug the long-time EPCOT icon at the Imagination! pavilion beginning late summer. Mickey Mouse and friends will also have a new home at Communicore Hall opening later this year as part of the EPCOT transformation. And, at Magic Kingdom Park this fall, Mirabel from Walt Disney Animation Studios’ hit film “Encanto” will greet guests in Fairytale Garden surrounded by whimsical décor inspired by La Familia Madrigal. These new experiences follow the return of several Magic Kingdom character experiences including Pete’s Silly Sideshow, Enchanted Tales with Belle, Ariel in her underwater grotto and the return of character dining at Cinderella’s Royal Table.ADVERTISEMENTRoundup Rodeo BBQ Comes to Disney’s Hollywood Studios – March 23
    Yee-haw! Andy’s backyard is preparing to welcome more toys at Roundup Rodeo BBQ opening March 23 in Toy Story Land. Serving barbecue-inspired comfort foods, this one-of-a-kind dining experience is the first “Toy Story” table-service restaurant in the world. A collaboration between Walt Disney Imagineering, Disney Pixar Animation Studios and Walt Disney World Food & Beverage, Roundup Rodeo BBQ will bring more toy-sized, tasty fun to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
    Nighttime Spectaculars Brighten Skies and Warm Hearts at Magic Kingdom Park and EPCOT – April 3
    Fan-favorite nighttime spectacular “Happily Ever After” Presented by Pandora Jewelry returns to light up the night sky over Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom Park beginning April 3. New this year, the nightly fireworks show will fully immerse guests in heartfelt Disney stories as brand-new projections extend down Main Street U.S.A., adding even more magic to this unforgettable spectacle.
    “EPCOT Forever” returns to World Showcase Lagoon starting April 3. Featuring stirring renditions of memorable EPCOT music, the show sparks fond memories from the park’s rich history.
    The Grid Awaits on TRON Lightcycle / Run Presented by Enterprise – April 4
    Beginning April 4, guests can climb aboard Lightcycles for a thrilling race on TRON Lightcycle / Run Presented by Enterprise. Located in Magic Kingdom Park, it is the fastest coaster attraction in a Disney theme park, alongside its sister coaster at Shanghai Disneyland. The attraction masterfully blends coaster thrills with speed, visual effects, music and a one-of-a-kind ride system to create an experience like no other. A virtual queue will be in place when TRON Lightcycle / Run opens and guests will also have the option to purchase individual Lightning Lane entry for the attraction via the My Disney Experience app on the day of their visit. For details, visit DisneyWorld.com.

    Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park 25th Anniversary – April 22
    2023 marks a special milestone as Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park celebrates its 25th anniversary. With the return of entertainment such as “Festival of the Lion King” and ”Finding Nemo: The Big Blue…and Beyond!,” there has never been a better time to explore this one-of-a-kind park. It is the place to encounter wild animals, take in high-speed thrills and even journey to a world beyond belief, Pandora – The World of Avatar. Make plans now to visit this special place that celebrates the magic of nature.
    EPCOT Transformation Continues – Late 2023
    This fall will bring even more exciting experiences as part of the multi-year transformation of EPCOT. Guests will be able to explore the wonders of water when Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana opens.  This fun interactive outdoor trail offers a chance to play and interact with water as it travels from the sky to the oceans and back again. Along the way, guests learn about the importance of water and discover its playful personality – just as Moana did on her heroic voyage.
    Fall will also see completion of the new World Celebration neighborhood. As the hub of the park, it will feature different gardens that change with the seasons. It will also be home to the new Communicore Plaza and the new Communicore Hall, the latter offering a place to meet Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse. World Celebration will also anchor the park’s renowned festivals. It is also where guests will discover Dreamers Point, an inspiring overlook showcasing a statue of Walt Disney called “Walt the Dreamer.”

    Guests will be treated to the debut of an all-new EPCOT nighttime spectacular later this year. A dazzling display of music, pyrotechnics, lasers and lighting, the show will feature an original composition and evocative selections from the Disney songbook – all woven together to remind us that we are more alike than different.
    Disney100 Celebration – Late 2023
    Later this year, Walt Disney World Resort will join the global celebration of The Walt Disney Company’s 100th Anniversary – 10 decades of creativity and innovation. Look for more details to come, as EPCOT prepares to host this unforgettable celebration at Walt Disney World.
    More Disney Dining Options – Throughout the Year

    On April 1, 2023, Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will welcome guests to an exciting new dining experience. This signature-dining restaurant – renowned for its panoramic views of Seven Seas Lagoon – will introduce a new interior along with a refreshed menu offering a perfect balance of updated classics and new culinary delights. Guests can look forward to the return of house specialties such as lobster bisque and new dishes like Blackened Redfish and tasty plant-based options.
    Later this year, more dining delights will debut, including Summer House on the Lake at Disney Springs and The Cake Bake Shop at Disney’s BoardWalk.
    Experiencing Walt Disney World Theme Parks
    To experience all that Walt Disney World theme parks have to offer, guests need both valid park admission and a park reservation on the same date. Guests can visit DisneyWorld.com for more information about planning their visit.

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    Miral announces the much-anticipated SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi to open its doors on 23 May

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    Miral announces the much-anticipated SeaWorld® Yas Island, Abu Dhabi to open its doors on 23 May

    Miral, Abu Dhabi’s leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences, announced today that SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is set to open its doors to the public on the 23rd of May 2023. The next-generation Marine Life Theme Park will tell a captivating ‘One Ocean’ story that uncovers the interconnectivity between life on earth and our ocean. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will deliver engaging, and immersive family-friendly experiences through eight of its uniquely themed realms, featuring up-close animal encounters, exciting rides, inspiring entertainment, as well as unmatched dining and shopping experiences.
    A collaboration between Miral and SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s eight realms can be explored across five indoor levels spanning an area of approximately 183,000m2 with the Endless Ocean realm set to be home to the world’s largest and most expansive multi-species aquarium. This innovatively designed aquarium will contain over 25 million liters of water and will be a dynamic habitat for more than 68,000 marine animals, including sharks, schools of fish, manta rays and sea turtles. Located on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, in total there will be over 100,000 marine animals including 150 species of birds, fish, mammals and reptiles at the Marine Life Theme Park. Animal habitats in each realm of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi have been custom designed using state-of-the-art technology and the highest standards for animal welfare.
    Chairman of Miral, His Excellency Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, said: “We are delighted to announce the opening of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi this May, and proud of our partnership with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment to bring the region’s next-generation Marine Life Theme Park to Abu Dhabi and to Yas Island. As part of our commitment to the Year of Sustainability, the marine life park will embed Sheikh Zayed’s legacy and profound respect for nature and all its beauty, as well as play a key role in promoting environmental awareness and protecting marine life in Abu Dhabi, the UAE and the wider region. Through its innovative programs and its state-of-the-art facilities, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi aims to inspire the next generation of conservationists and marine life scientists while fostering a deeper appreciation for the natural world. SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s opening will mark an exciting new chapter in Yas Island and Abu Dhabi’s ongoing efforts to promote tourism, showcase the emirate’s truly unique offerings and position it as a top global destination.”
    Designed according to standards set by the Association of Zoos and Aquarium (AZA) and American Humane, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s next-generation marine life habitats feature state-of-the art design and technology that will enable animals to live in dynamic habitats alongside other fish, birds, and animals as they would in nature.  Other spaces have been designed to provide flexibility for animal welfare allowing the SeaWorld Abu Dhabi animal care team to recreate social seasonal patterns for animals such as the walrus. Unique systems such as the Advanced Animal Lighting System (AALS) recreate night/day and seasonal light cycles while also providing the health benefits of full spectrum light and the Animal Life Support System (ALSS) that manages water quality to support the diverse array of fish and mammals living together in dynamic environments are some of the cutting-edge features at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.
    Chairman of SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment, Scott Ross shared his thoughts on the occasion, saying: “We’re very excited to share that the highly anticipated SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will open its doors very soon.  We cannot be prouder and more honored to open our first SeaWorld outside of the United States with such dynamic and innovative partners as Miral and the UAE. It is only through the strength of our partnership,  unwavering support, and commitment that we are bringing this incredible experience to Yas Island. Years in the making, SeaWorld’s world-renowned team of animal care specialists, scientists, and engineers have worked alongside the visionary team at Miral, leading architects and designers to develop a next-generation SeaWorld park. By leveraging a fundamental SeaWorld design principle of putting animal well-being and care at the core of the design, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is set to redefine the standards of excellence for marine life theme parks across the world. The result is an enriching and immersive experience not only for our animals, but also for our guests. Across all eight realms, the enthralling One Ocean story comes alive through realm designs that simulate the natural and dynamic environments found within the ocean alongside fun and educational experiences that inspire guests of all ages to take an interest in our ocean’s future.”ADVERTISEMENTBased on the interconnectivity between all life on earth and our ocean, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will take guests through its unifying ONE OCEAN story, with stops in the tropics, the rocky coasts of the Pacific Northwest, the Arabian Gulf, the vast ocean and its smaller ecosystems along the way. Situated in the center of the park, the One Ocean realm acts as a portal to the park’s other realms and features One Epic Ocean, an immersive multi-media story shown on a 360◦screen. The realm also offers a glimpse into the Animal Care Center – the heart of SeaWorld Abu Dhabi. There, guests are welcome to observe veterinarians and animal care experts providing animals from the park with around-the-clock care, routine check-ups and treatment when needed.

    The guest journey begins in the ABU DHABI OCEAN realm, where guests will be carried to the shallow shores of the Arabian Gulf to learn more about the UAE’s historic seafaring tradition of pearl diving and trading. Abu Dhabi Ocean will allow guests to experience up-close encounters with animals native to the emirate and wider region. This realm features several dining options including Matbakh Ummi, a signature dining experience with Arabic cuisine, and is also home to retail outlets in a Souk paying homage to Abu Dhabi’s heritage and its profound connection with the Arabian Gulf. Abu Dhabi Ocean will also be the first touchpoint for guests to enroll in SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s parkwide interactive game – S·E·A Guardian.
    POLAR OCEAN houses two unique realms taking visitors from the icy expanse of ANTARCTICA to the rich, bio-diverse tundra of the ARCTIC, illustrating how these distinct and extreme environments of Polar Ocean form an essential chapter of the One Ocean story. In these realms, guests can enjoy the colorful Juhani village and its harbor, depicting life in the North Pole, where walruses can be seen exploring their dynamic state-of-the-art habitats. The coldest of all realms will also simulate the temperatures that can be found in our planet’s polar regions – creating an environment well-suited for animals like penguins and walruses. At the Polar Ocean realm, guests can enjoy an immersive ride, indulge in dining options, explore retail outlets and visit a massive research vessel filled with fun interactive ways to learn more about these diverse regions and their inhabitants.
    When visiting the MICROOCEAN realm, small is BIG and small is IMPORTANT as guests will be swept by the ocean tides and feel shrunk to the size of plankton. In this realm, guests will have the chance to explore the ocean’s smaller wonders in a burst of colors and an immersive design highlighting the vital role of the ocean’s smallest marine-life. MicroOcean features family-friendly rides, play areas for the little ones, whimsical characters and performers, a playful retail outlet, and dynamic experiments taking young explorers on an unforgettable educational journey. 
    Beyond the little wonders of the ocean, lies the expanse of the ENDLESS OCEAN realm. Home to the largest multi-species aquarium in the world, stunning observation decks and a beautiful glimpse from a 20m viewing window, aptly named the Endless Vista, in a sea cave, this realm’s possibilities are truly endless. There will be over 68,000 animals within its awe-inspiring habitat including sharks, rays, eels and many more inspiring guests to explore the endless beauty and diversity of the vast ocean. Endless Ocean offers delectable dining options, including one fine dining option with mesmerizing views of the aquarium and one retail outlet.
    Bask in the warm sun along the sandy shores of the TROPICAL OCEAN, the largest realm in SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, in a magnificent medley of colors, dancing waterfalls and a crystal-clear lagoon. In Tropical Ocean guests will be able to see dolphins, flamingos and tropical birds including toucans in their lush rainforest aviary. Tropical Ocean also offers a thrilling roller-coaster ride, as well as retail outlets and delicious dining options with multiple viewing areas, both above and below water.
    Moving from the sun-kissed tropics to the USA’s rugged Pacific Northwest, the ROCKY POINT realm features a beautiful hidden cove with nesting sea lions and once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to interact with these animals. Not as cold as the Arctic and Antarctic, Rocky Point will also include dynamic habitats for the sea lions with a climate that emulates the Pacific Northwest. The realm also includes a boardwalk-inspired snack stand.
    Adjacent to SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, the park is home to Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the first-of-its-kind dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation and return center in the region, serving as an advanced marine science knowledge hub and a key contributor to marine life conservation in the UAE and wider region. Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue opened in February 2023.

    For more information or to pre-book your tickets, please visit: seaworldabudhabi.com

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