A Memorable Family Getaway to W Abu Dhabi YAS Island

Varsha Pherwani on 28 September 2023
Last week, my family and I embarked on a delightful escape to W Abu Dhabi YAS Island, and it was a trip filled with special moments. We had two compelling reasons for our getaway: first, the extended weekend in the UAE due to the celebration of Prophet Muhammad's birthday, and second, a special treat for my son, who turned 10 this week. We decided to take full advantage of the 'Stay and Play' offer by W Abu Dhabi, which granted us access to the fantastic parks on YAS Island.

Our main attraction was the newly opened Sea World in Abu Dhabi. We couldn't wait to see what all the buzz was about. Our stay lasted three nights, and we were delighted to have access to any three parks during our stay. We decided to explore Sea World Abu Dhabi and Warner Bros, two parks we had not visited before.

Here, I'll share some valuable tips for anyone planning to visit Sea World Abu Dhabi.

1. Arrive Early to Beat the Crowds

The park tends to get busier around midday, so it's advisable to start your day early. The park opens at 10 am, and being among the first to arrive allows you to experience the attractions with shorter wait times.

2. Plan Ahead with the Performance Schedule

To make the most of your visit, check the presentation schedule on Sea World's website before your trip or obtain one upon arrival at the park. This schedule outlines the performance times in different zones throughout the day, ensuring you won't miss out on any of the captivating shows.

3. Prioritize the Micro Ocean Rides

The rides in Micro Ocean are incredibly popular and tend to get crowded later in the day. We heeded the advice of a friendly volunteer at the reception and prioritized these thrilling rides. The Eel Racer and the Octo Zoom were perfect for my son, who isn't a big fan of roller coasters.

4. Secure Good Seats for the Shows

Following the performance schedule like clockwork took us to various zones in the park. Arrive at least 20 minutes ahead of showtimes to secure the best seats for performances. We were impressed by shows like the seal presentation at the Rocky Mountain and the dolphin show at the Tropical Ocean, which were not just for entertainment but also delivered important messages about sustainability and the significance of play in children's well-being.

5. Dress Warm for Polar Ocean

Don't forget to pack warm clothing, like hoodies or jackets, when visiting the Polar Ocean zone. You'll need them to fully immerse yourself in the snowy world of the Arctic.

6. Don't Miss Interactive Digital Games

Inside the park, there are interactive digital games that reward you for participating. Make sure to collect your card at the entrance, which will be customized with your child's details.

Our stay at W Abu Dhabi YAS Island was a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment. Our Half Board Package included dining at three diverse restaurants over our three nights. We had the chance to savor delectable Indian cuisine at Angar, mouthwatering Italian dishes at Amici, and a wide range of world cuisine at Garage.

The warm and friendly staff at W Abu Dhabi went the extra mile to make my son's birthday even more special, surprising him with a cake and adorable bed decoration. His delight was truly heartwarming.

In summary, our family getaway to W Abu Dhabi YAS Island was a fantastic experience, with Sea World Abu Dhabi as the crown jewel of our trip. We left with cherished memories, a deeper understanding of marine life, and a strong desire to return to this captivating destination.