Get set for 12 thrilling new rides and experiences to be unveiled by Yas Waterworld this summer! This will join the 40+ world-class attractions already available at this award-winning Middle East water park.
Here’s what we know so far! – Initial Press release from Miral
Yas Waterworld Expansion Plans
Owners Miral announced on November 15, 2023, that Yas Waterworld would be expanding by 16,900 sqm, adding a further 3.3 kilometres of slides and numerous new attractions to the existing lineup on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
The existing immersive experience, “The Legend of the Lost Pearl,” which reflects the UAE’s pearl diving history, will be joined by the new adventure, “The Lost City”. Guests will embark on an exciting journey to discover hidden treasures and secret passages.
The expansion will blend seamlessly with the park’s existing architectural styles, rockwork features, and characters.
The new features of The Lost City will include:
- A swim-up bar (we assume serving alcohol, but TBC!)
- A high-thrill boat ride
- Racing and tube slides
- Family raft ride
- Duelling Master Blaster
Younger thrill-seekers will also experience miniature versions of the park’s most iconic rides, including a mini-Dawwama and a mini-Boomerango, for big-ride sensations without fear!
Expected Open Date For Phase 1 is 1 July 2025
While the expansion will involve 18 new rides and experiences, 12 are expected to open by Summer 2025. We don’t have a specific opening date just yet. However, Miral has advised that the following attractions will be ready to experience in the next few months:
- Mataha Madness
- Sadaf Swirl
- Bahamut’s Rage (log ride)
- Bandit’s Playground – splash zone
- Bandit’s Village
Update Following Fire at Yas Waterworld Expansion
A large fire tragically struck part of the park expansion in late March 2025.
We do not have official word from Miral on the cause of the fire, but it appears to have impacted only six of the proposed new attractions. The phase 1 attractions were unimpacted by the blaze and will open on schedule this summer, 2025.
Given the apparent damage to the nearly complete slides in the final section that can be seen roadside, we can only assume that the remaining sections of the expansion will not open until at least early 2026.
NEW OPENING DATE CONFIRMED! The remaining section of the Lost City will open on 4 April, 2026.
Will Yas Waterworld Become the Largest Water Park in the Middle East?
Even after the expansion, that title will still belong to Aquaventure in Dubai. However, once completed, the additions will bring the total number of rides and experiences at Yas Waterworld to over 60, still by far the most extensive water park experience in Abu Dhabi!
The park will continue business as usual during the expansion phase. You can learn everything you need to plan your visit to Yas Waterworld here.
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