Miral, the leading creator of immersive destinations and experiences in Abu Dhabi, announced that Yas Island and Saadiyat Island achieved a remarkable surge in visitors over the summer period, further solidifying their status as must-visit destinations for families and travellers from across the globe.
This year, Yas Island, the UAE’s leading leisure and entertainment destination, witnessed a significant increase in domestic and international guests, with a remarkable 72% increase in visitation to Yas Theme Parks from GCC countries, followed by a 24% increase from India. Hotels on Yas Island enjoyed an impressive 83% occupancy rate throughout the summer season with a 29% increase in international hotel guests, and a remarkable 90% hotel occupancy in August 2024 alone compared to the previous year. The combination of world-class attractions, thrilling experiences and exclusive offers made Yas Island the go-to destination for families seeking unforgettable summer adventures.
Saadiyat Island continues to captivate guests with its pristine beaches, luxurious resorts and cultural experiences. These resorts along the shores of Saadiyat Island continued to draw visitors from around the globe, boasting an impressive occupancy rate of over 65% over summer, 73% occupancy in August 2024. Saadiyat Island’s summer hotel occupancy rose by 13% compared to 2023 with international hotel guest arrivals growing by 19%.
Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, said: “We are thrilled with the success Yas Island and Saadiyat Island have achieved this summer. Their remarkable performance has truly elevated this season into one of the most vibrant and high-demand periods in Abu Dhabi’s tourism calendar. The impressive occupancy rates and increase in visitation reflect our ongoing efforts to position Yas Island as a global destination for entertainment and leisure, and Saadiyat Island as a leading beach, nature and cultural destination. We remain committed to creating exceptional experiences for our guests while contributing to Abu Dhabi’s economic growth.”
In a major win for Yas Island, Hollywood superstar Ryan Reynolds has been named the destination’s third Chief Island Officer (CIO), bringing his star power and signature charm to further elevate the island’s appeal on the global stage. Additionally, for the second year in a row, Yas Island collaborated with the legendary Kuwaiti group, Miami Band, to release a summer version of their hit song “AACHAW.” The track has ignited a wave of popularity across the GCC, captivating audiences and drawing visitors from across the region.
Over the summer of 2024, Yas Island has been the epicenter of unforgettable events, further cementing its status as a top-tier entertainment destination. The season kicked off with Yas Theme Parks buzzing with summer festivities, offering family-friendly fun through special events and interactive experiences.
Yas Bay Waterfront also lit up with spectacular events, fireworks and vibrant dining experiences, making Yas Island the ultimate hotspot for both tourists and locals in summer. As the largest mall on Yas Island, Yas Mall offers a vibrant mix of entertainment, shopping and dining experiences attracting thousands of visitors with exclusive summer promotions, extended shopping hours and engaging family-friendly activities. With its diverse selection of retail outlets, including newly opened stores and unique dining experiences, Yas Mall was a key destination for both tourists and residents seeking a dynamic and refreshing summer experience.
