SeaWorld’s First Rescue Center Opens Outside the U.S. With Launch of Abu Dhabi Site

SeaWorld is expanding its network of rescue centers with the launch of Yas SeaWorld Research and Rescue – the first SeaWorld site of its kind to open outside the United States




Tom Anstey | Planet Attractions | February 9, 2023

SeaWorld’s rescue efforts are now truly global with the launch of the Abu Dhabi site Image Credit: SeaWorld

SeaWorld is celebrating a landmark launch with the opening of its first rescue center outside the United States.

Located on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, the Yas Seaworld Research and Rescue Center is the first dedicated marine research and rescue center in the Middle East and North Africa region.

As a key contributor to the conservation of marine life in the UAE and the wider MENA region, the center will conduct comprehensive research, rescue, rehabilitation, repatriation and education programs based on SeaWorld’s nearly 60 years of animal care and rescue experience.

The center joins a network of three existing rescue operations adjacent to SeaWorld parks in Orlando, San Antonio and San Diego. Together, the four sites will support local, regional and global conservation efforts for dozens of species, many of which are threatened or endangered.

“The waters of the Arabian Gulf are an important marine ecosystem and an integral part of the community fabric of Abu Dhabi,” said Dr. Chris Dold, Chief Zoology Officer, SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment.

“It is an honor and a privilege to promote SeaWorld’s nearly 60-year legacy of animal care and conservation globally, and to have the opportunity to share our knowledge with the region.”

Features of the new center include rescue vehicles and equipment, a rescue clinic, a state-of-the-art veterinary hospital, rehabilitation ponds, on-site laboratories and aquaculture facilities. It also houses a high-tech auditorium and educational classrooms, as well as a research center for the study of many marine life topics.

The center precedes SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, the upcoming sea life theme park that will be the first to open outside of the United States and the first not to feature orcas. Set to open later in 2023, Abu Dhabi-based Miral will become the park’s owner and operator under SeaWorld’s license. The park will feature many major attractions, including the world’s largest aquarium.