Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island is now available as a virtual world in Roblox, allowing users from across the globe to explore the site’s leisure and entertainment experiences.
The virtual experience was developed by Super League and is part of a collaboration between the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), Aldar, Miral, twofour54 and Ethara.
“This immersive adventure in the virtual realm is the latest example of Abu Dhabi’s commitment to utilising innovation and creativity to reach ever wider audiences,” said Saeed Al Fazari, strategic affairs executive director at DCT Abu Dhabi.
“While we have shared Abu Dhabi with millions of visitors in the real world, today marks the start of a new phase in our journey. Everyone, wherever they are, can experience the emirate from the comfort of their own home.”
DCT Abu Dhabi, he added, is working to promote the emirate as a leading tourism destination. Via virtual experiences, the department is sharing Abu Dhabi with the world “in a new way”.
Through digital avatars, users can visit theme parks such as SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi.
“In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, it is imperative to remain relevant to all guests, including those in the virtual realm,” said Taghrid Alsaeed, executive director of group communications and destination marketing at Miral.
“The launch of Yas Island’s digital experience is an exciting step in Miral’s commitment to digital transformation, harnessing advanced technology to deliver highly personalized and memorable experiences.”
Virtual guests can explore the 25-square-kilometre site, developed by Super League. They can build cultural and entertainment attractions, socialise, play and transact.
Digitally explore Yas Island’s theme parks
“The virtual Yas Island experience unlocks new opportunities for a global audience to explore the island as a world-class destination to live, visit, and work,” said Rashed Al Omaira, chief commercial officer at Aldar.
“The effective use of innovative content creation not only enables us to tell the story of Abu Dhabi but also allows people around the world to become immersed in it.”
Mark Whitehead, CEO of twofour54, said the experience is an “opportunity to explore one of the emirate’s most vibrant destinations using a highly interactive platform”.
“We are constantly seeking ways to deliver thrilling experiences for our fans, and delivering moments that matter,” said Saif Rashid Al Noaimi, CEO of Ethara.
Visit the Yas Island virtual experience here.
Images courtesy of DCT Abu Dhabi and Roblox
