UAE theme park operator using artificial intelligence to drive growth

February 2, 2025

Abu Dhabi-based theme park operator Miral is leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance guest experiences and streamline operations.

As reported by Forbes, Miral Chief Executive Mohamed Al Zaabi, told students during a recent visit to the company’s headquarters, “insights about how AI is transforming the way we design and conceptualise theme parks.”

The company has partnered with Microsoft to implement AI solutions across its attractions, including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. This collaboration aims to personalise visitor experiences, optimize resource management, and improve overall efficiency.

By analysing data such as visitor preferences and behaviour, Miral can tailor services to individual guests, offering personalised recommendations and promotions. AI-driven insights also assist in predictive maintenance of rides and attractions, reducing downtime and enhancing safety. Additionally, AI optimises staffing and resource allocation, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience for visitors.

An example of how Miral is putting AI at the heart of its expansion strategy can be seen in the 3D theatre at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Waterworld waterpark.

Located in one of the waterpark’s themed forts, the 3D theatre, called Cinesplash 5D, it is a 12-minute computer-generated tale themed to the story of Yas Waterworld’s creation.

During the movie rain sprays down from above and waterfalls gush beside the screen onto the stone floor. Next, the theatre floods up to the level of the plastic seats which sway in time to the waves on screen in a mesmerising motion. Water jets under the chairs even give the impression that there's a current.

When the action on screen heads underwater, plastic bubbles set into the walls and ceiling light up in sequence to make it look like they are rising. Lasers in the theatre flash in time with spotlights on screen and 3D splashes even seem to make their way into the water as fountains spring up next to the seats while. Gusts of wind herald the arrival of ships on screen which emerge from actual mist as the journey heads back home.

AI is also used in in Cartoon Junction at Warner Bros. World, featuring Hanna-Barbera characters including Scooby-Doo, Tom and Jerry and Bugs Bunny.

Image: Cinesplash 5D atYas Waterworld.

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3rd December 2023 - IAAPA prepares to host Middle East Trade Summit in Abu Dhabi

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24th May 2023 - SeaWorld Abu Dhabi gets official opening

4th May 2023 - Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island names Aquaman actor Jason Momoa as its new ‘Chief Island Officer’

8th February 2023 - SeaWorld marine research centre opens on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island

18th November 2022 - Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi to feature Harry Potter-themed land

22nd October 2022 - Attractions at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island attractions recreated in the metaverse

20th September 2022 - Miral announces that SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will open next year

16th November 2021 - World’s first Warner Bros. Hotel opened on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island

24th March 2021 - Abu Dhabi’s Miral introduces facial recognition at Yas Island theme parks

28th January 2020 - Developer Miral considers further Yas Island attractions

17th April 2019 - Yas Waterworld sets Guinness World Record

26th October 2018 - Miral partners with Microsoft to transform Yas Island visitor experience

7th December 2018 - Yas Waterworld secures World Travel Award

3rd May 2017 - Yas Waterworld adds Annual Pass benefits

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