Miral has announced record visitor numbers for Yas Island and Saadiyat Island. Yas Island recorded more than 34 million visits in 2023, a rise of 38 per cent compared to 2022, while Saadiyat Island visitor numbers grew by 44 per cent compared to 2022, in line with sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s tourism sector.

Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, said: "These record-breaking figures reiterate our commitment to positioning Yas Island as a global destination for entertainment and leisure, and Saadiyat Island as a leading beach, nature and cultural destination. Aligned with Abu Dhabi’s Tourism Strategy 2030, our goal is to deliver new leisure, entertainment, and cultural destinations and experiences that enhance visitor experiences while generating sustainable value and contributing significantly to Abu Dhabi’s tourism growth and economic diversification."

Theme parks and CLYMB at Yas Island recorded an increase of 83 per cent in 2023 compared to 2022. Visitor numbers from the GCC grew by 125 per cent compared to the previous year. The theme parks across the Island also saw a substantial 167 per cent increase in international visits, primarily driven by travellers from India, the UK, Russia and Germany.

Yas Island’s consumer events received an increase of 87 per cent, as more than 560,000 visitors attended concerts, performances, and family and sports events. Yas Island also received 23 MICE Groups, a 77 per cent rise compared to the previous year, with a total related increase in spending of 62 per cent compared to the previous year. The summer of 2023 had a 96 per cent surge in visitation in July and August compared to 2022. Hotels on Yas Island also experienced growth, with a 90 per cent occupancy during June to August.

Yas Island will also feature new developments, including the 16,900 square metre expansion to Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi, and a Harry Potter theme park at Warner Bros. World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. Additional projects include the 560-metre beachfront development of Yas Bay Beach, serving as an addition to leisure and lifestyle experiences at Yas Bay Waterfront.

Newly developed attractions on Saadiyat Island, in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), include teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, a multi-sensory art experience at Saadiyat Cultural District, as well as the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi.

Yas Island and Saadiyat Island received more than 170 regional and international accolades in 2023. Yas Island received 130 awards, while Saadiyat Island received over 40 awards across the travel and tourism sector.