SeaWorld has opened its first aquatic park outside the U.S. in Abu Dhabi, a $1.2 billion project featuring the world’s largest aquarium but no orcas. The park aims to rebrand after criticism for animal treatment, especially following the documentary “Blackfish,” which highlighted issues with orca captivity. SeaWorld halted its orca breeding program in 2016 and promotes its commitment to animal care and conservation.
Despite this, critics, including PETA, argue that marine animals suffer in captivity, living in inadequate environments compared to the wild. The park has not yet sought certification from the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, although it is certified by American Humane.
SeaWorld’s new facility is part of a larger effort to attract tourism to Abu Dhabi, which seeks to diversify its economy. The park includes a themed area reflecting local culture and plans to conduct research on marine life in the Persian Gulf. Critics, including former trainers, hope SeaWorld will focus more on global conservation efforts rather than maintaining animals in captivity. However, this is by far the end of the story for Abu Dhabi SeaWorld.
