Miral Reports Record Visitor Numbers for Yas and Saadiyat Islands in 2024
In an impressive display of growth, Miral, the leading creator of immersive experiences and destinations in Abu Dhabi, has announced record-breaking visitation figures for Yas and Saadiyat Islands in 2024. This announcement was made during the Arabian Travel Market 2025, highlighting the islands' evolving status as premier tourist destinations.
Yas Island achieved an extraordinary milestone, recording over 38 million visits in 2024. This marks a notable 10% increase from the previous year, showcasing Yas Island's momentum as a primary entertainment hub. Hotel occupancy rates on the island also reached an all-time high, averaging 82% with peaks of 90% in August 2024. This increase reflects a 9% annual growth in hotel occupancy and a 17% rise in the average daily rate (ADR) compared to 2023.
Saadiyat Island mirrored this growth, seeing a 10% increase in visitors to its hotels and cultural attractions compared to the previous year. Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, emphasized the significance of these results, stating, "These exceptional figures illustrate our commitment to supporting Abu Dhabi's vision of becoming a leading global destination. Through the development of world-class attractions and immersive experiences, we are not only attracting visitors but also creating lasting memories."
The enhanced attraction of Yas Island is further evidenced by the theme parks and recreational facilities, which reported an impressive 20% increase in attendance. Notably, the number of visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) surged by 56% year-on-year, while international visitors rose by 40%. Key markets contributing to this influx included substantial growth from India (+44%), China (+81%), the United Kingdom (+40%), and Russia (+29%).
In addition to validated entertainment venues, the islands have become a preferred choice for hosting major events, experiencing a 10% increase in public event attendance in 2024. This surge was fueled by a dynamic calendar of music concerts, sporting events, and family activities, including performances by global stars and influential events like the Formula 1® Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the Disney on Ice show.
With Yas Island becoming the go-to destination for corporate events, there was a 17% increase in business conferences held on the island, accompanied by a 7% rise in overnight stays from the previous year. To enhance this sector further, Miral is developing the Yas Island Metaverse in partnership with e enterprise, which involves employing advanced metaverse technologies to present Yas Island's attractions and event spaces in a virtual format.
The allure of Saadiyat Island lies in its unique blend of cultural immersion and leisure, achieving an excellent 74% occupancy rate in its hotels in 2024, alongside a 14% rise in ADR. The island has attracted visitors from essential markets, including a significant increase from the UK (+11%), India (+30%), and China (+58%), reinforcing its reputation as a leading cultural destination.
Several exciting developments are anticipated on Yas Island in 2025, including the expansion of Yas Waterworld, which will add 12 new rides. This expansion is in line with the intentions to elevate the visitor experience further. Other key expansions involve Warner Bros. World™, which will introduce new attractions associated with DC and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
The upcoming Abu Dhabi Natural History Museum is set to become the largest in its region, expected to open toward the end of 2025 and will guide visitors through the wonders of the natural world. Meanwhile, the recently opened teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi adds to the cultural experiences available to visitors on Saadiyat Island.
Overall, Yas and Saadiyat Islands received over 190 awards and recognitions in 2024, solidifying their status as top-tier destinations for visitors. Yas Island was honored with more than 175 awards, while Saadiyat Island garnered over 20 prestigious accolades. Through these strategic developments, Miral continues to play an integral role in elevating Abu Dhabi's tourism sector, with plans aligned with the emirate's ambitious strategy to attract 39.3 million visitors and generate substantial economic growth by 2030.
Yas Island achieved an extraordinary milestone, recording over 38 million visits in 2024. This marks a notable 10% increase from the previous year, showcasing Yas Island's momentum as a primary entertainment hub. Hotel occupancy rates on the island also reached an all-time high, averaging 82% with peaks of 90% in August 2024. This increase reflects a 9% annual growth in hotel occupancy and a 17% rise in the average daily rate (ADR) compared to 2023.
Saadiyat Island mirrored this growth, seeing a 10% increase in visitors to its hotels and cultural attractions compared to the previous year. Dr. Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral, emphasized the significance of these results, stating, "These exceptional figures illustrate our commitment to supporting Abu Dhabi's vision of becoming a leading global destination. Through the development of world-class attractions and immersive experiences, we are not only attracting visitors but also creating lasting memories."
The enhanced attraction of Yas Island is further evidenced by the theme parks and recreational facilities, which reported an impressive 20% increase in attendance. Notably, the number of visitors from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) surged by 56% year-on-year, while international visitors rose by 40%. Key markets contributing to this influx included substantial growth from India (+44%), China (+81%), the United Kingdom (+40%), and Russia (+29%).
In addition to validated entertainment venues, the islands have become a preferred choice for hosting major events, experiencing a 10% increase in public event attendance in 2024. This surge was fueled by a dynamic calendar of music concerts, sporting events, and family activities, including performances by global stars and influential events like the Formula 1® Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and the Disney on Ice show.
With Yas Island becoming the go-to destination for corporate events, there was a 17% increase in business conferences held on the island, accompanied by a 7% rise in overnight stays from the previous year. To enhance this sector further, Miral is developing the Yas Island Metaverse in partnership with e enterprise, which involves employing advanced metaverse technologies to present Yas Island's attractions and event spaces in a virtual format.
The allure of Saadiyat Island lies in its unique blend of cultural immersion and leisure, achieving an excellent 74% occupancy rate in its hotels in 2024, alongside a 14% rise in ADR. The island has attracted visitors from essential markets, including a significant increase from the UK (+11%), India (+30%), and China (+58%), reinforcing its reputation as a leading cultural destination.
Several exciting developments are anticipated on Yas Island in 2025, including the expansion of Yas Waterworld, which will add 12 new rides. This expansion is in line with the intentions to elevate the visitor experience further. Other key expansions involve Warner Bros. World™, which will introduce new attractions associated with DC and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.
The upcoming Abu Dhabi Natural History Museum is set to become the largest in its region, expected to open toward the end of 2025 and will guide visitors through the wonders of the natural world. Meanwhile, the recently opened teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi adds to the cultural experiences available to visitors on Saadiyat Island.
Overall, Yas and Saadiyat Islands received over 190 awards and recognitions in 2024, solidifying their status as top-tier destinations for visitors. Yas Island was honored with more than 175 awards, while Saadiyat Island garnered over 20 prestigious accolades. Through these strategic developments, Miral continues to play an integral role in elevating Abu Dhabi's tourism sector, with plans aligned with the emirate's ambitious strategy to attract 39.3 million visitors and generate substantial economic growth by 2030.
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