As per the latest tourism report (Source: WAM) by the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, Abu Dhabi recorded 4.8 million tourists in the year 2024, marking a 26% increase in international visitors, mainly from China, Russia, India, the UK, and Saudi Arabia. This has been achieved under the guidelines of the UAE’s Tourism Strategy 2030, which aims to increase visitor numbers to 39.3 million by 2030 and position Abu Dhabi as a global leader in tourism and culture.
One of the key players in transforming Abu Dhabi’s leisure and entertainment industry is Miral.
In this article, we will explore Miral’s contribution and vision to position Yas Island as a global hub for business events in Abu Dhabi.
Over the last few years, Yas Island has become the destination for international business events. Thanks to Miral’s leadership, strategic insight, and unwavering dedication, the destination continues to elevate its offering through immersive experiences and important partnerships with brands like Ferrari, SeaWorld(R) Entertainment Inc., and Warner Bros.
Miral collaborates with leading industry pioneers on several innovative projects to deliver highly personalised and memorable experiences. One such initiative, the Yas Island Metaverse project, aims to attract more business travellers to Miral’s event venues. By showcasing Yas Island’s exceptional ability to host unforgettable and impactful business events, the project reinforces Abu Dhabi as a top MICE destination.
Once complete, the metaverse will utilise augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), 3D animation and construction, AI, and spatial audio technology, among others, to offer immersive and engaging simulations that can be experienced directly through a web browser. It will also attract potential business owners globally by integrating targeted ads and promotional content smoothly into the environment.
Beyond virtual innovation, Yas Island has also enhanced the guest experience through smart contactless solutions by launching FacePass in 2021 across its theme parks and experiences. This cutting-edge system utilises facial recognition to provide a seamless, secure, and hassle-free experience, eliminating the need for physical tickets or payment methods. It enhances efficiency, reduces wait times, and redefines convenience and security in the tourism industry. By adopting such advanced technology, Yas Island strengthens its position as a future-ready destination, catering to the needs of tech-savvy business travellers.
Another major highlight is Miral’s collaboration with Microsoft to introduce the region’s first generative AI customer-facing service powered by ChatGPT in the tourism and entertainment sector in 2023. This innovation uses Azure OpenAI Service and ChatGPT to enhance customer engagement by offering seamless itinerary planning across theme parks and attractions, ensuring a more efficient and tailored visit.
This collaboration has set a new benchmark for AI-driven services in the region’s tourism and entertainment sector. By integrating ChatGPT through Microsoft’s Azure OpenAI Service, Miral demonstrates its commitment to innovation, reinforcing Yas Island as a leader in digital transformation. It also positions Abu Dhabi as a forward-thinking business tourism destination.
Looking ahead, Miral’s commitment to technological innovation is shaping the future of Abu Dhabi’s tourism and business landscape. By integrating advanced digital solutions, AI-driven services, and smart infrastructure, Miral is not only redefining guest experiences but also creating investment opportunities in Abu Dhabi. Through these forward-thinking initiatives, Yas Island is solidifying its status as a world-class business tourism destination, seamlessly blending innovation with convenience for travellers and corporate visitors alike.