SeaWorld Yas Island in Abu Dhabi and the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, the region's first and best facility for marine research, rescue, rehabilitation, and return, has recently been accredited by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums(AZA). This makes SeaWorld among only three accredited institutions in the region as they have proven excellent commitment to animal care and welfare and dedication to marine life conservation.
“At Miral, we are committed to creating world-class attractions that have meaningful impact,” said Mohamed Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral. “With SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, we introduced a marine life edutainment hub to the region focused on educating guests, showcasing our dedication and commitment towards animal welfare. The AZA accreditation came in just over a year since SeaWorld Abu Dhabi’s grand opening in May last year, and it is a proud reflection of our values and a celebration of our collective milestones and achievements”.
Dr. Chris Dold, Chief Zoological Officer of United Parks & Resorts said “AZA accreditation is considered a ‘Gold Standard’ in the international zoological community and earning accreditation is a goal we have had since we started designing SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center. They now join our U.S. parks in achieving this important certification, recognizing our high standards and commitment to being a global leader in animal welfare, animal rescue and rehabilitation, veterinary care and conservation”.
“Earning AZA accreditation reflects excellence and unwavering dedication to the highest standards of animal care and conservation”, said Dan Ashe, President and Chief Executive Officer at AZA. “We are proud to now count SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center as accredited members. These are amazing facilities, presenting animals in complex, multi-species habitats that will engage and inspire millions of visitors. And their commitment to rescue and return of injured wild animals continues a long SeaWorld tradition of care and concern for nature”.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, along with the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, was accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, a non-profit organization dedicated to innovating animal welfare, conservation, and education for generations to come. Accredited after a comprehensive review process, these facilities ensure that the activities they develop and present showcase the best out.
At AZA, around the world, more than 250 of the very best institutions are accredited while playing a highly critical role in advancing global conservation work and best practices.
This also includes SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and the Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue Center, which are becoming the first establishments in the region to achieve Global Humane accreditation as the largest animal welfare certifier in the world. Recognition underlines a deep commitment to high welfare animal standards and further expands SeaWorld's commitment to animal care and conservation throughout the United Arab Emirates and beyond it.
