07 Jun 2018
Attractions key for Abu Dhabi as Emirate aims to double visitor numbers by 2021
BY Tom Anstey
Sultan Al Dhaheri, the executive director for Abu Dhabi's Department of Culture and Tourism, has identified the visitor attractions sector as a key component of the Emirate's tourism strategy, breaking down how the region will almost double its visitor numbers by 2021.
Abu Dhabi has set a tourism target of 8.5 million visitors by 2021, up from current figures which stand at 4.4 million a year. The emirate has recognised tourism as one of its 12 "engines" of economic diversification. The sector, says Abu Dhabi's government, is a strategic pillar to realise its 2030 economic vision, which is aiming for a reduced reliance on the oil sector as a source of economic activity over time and a greater focus on knowledge-based industries in the future.
"To reach our visitor target of 8.5 million visitors by 2021, we are working hard to continue to develop Abu Dhabi as an inspiring destination to experience cultural authenticity, diverse natural offerings, dynamic family-leisure entertainment and ambitious business opportunities," said Al Dhaheri, speaking to Attractions Management.
With Abu Dhabi opening a number of major attractions developments in recent years and with more still under development, Dhaheri called them, alongside a growing programme of cultural events, a "key component" of the country's tourism strategy. The next major development comes in July in the form of Warner Bros World, the US$1bn (€808m, £703m), 1.65 million sq ft (153,000sq m) indoor theme park, which will add to the offering of Abu Dhabi and Yas Island ahead of further planned launches.
"Warner Bros World will add another super new facet to our burgeoning tourist proposition for families," said Al Dhaheri.
"Sitting alongside Yas Waterworld and Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Warner Bros World will reinforce Yas Island as the go-to destination for thrill-seekers of all ages. Looking further ahead, we have Seaworld Abu Dhabi, scheduled to open in 2022, which will be the first-ever SeaWorld to open outside the US.
"We have made sure that our touristic and cultural assets offer something for every possible demographic and nationality. As we add more to our destination proposition, we make sure each component adds to rather than replicates the attractions we already have online.
"Abu Dhabi is a true destination of distinction, with something extraordinary here for everyone."
For more from Sultan Al Dhaheri, check out the Q2 edition of Attractions Management, available here.
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