Sheikh Khalid bin Mohamed toured SeaWorld Abu Dhabi as construction work on the tourist attraction gathers pace.
The megaproject is now 40 per cent complete, with work set to be finished by the end of 2022.
It is the first SeaWorld leisure park to be built outside of the United States.
Sheikh Khalid, an Abu Dhabi Executive Council member and chairman of Abu Dhabi Executive Office, was told how the sprawling 183,000 square-metre venue will boast purpose-built habitats and ecosystems housing a variety of species.
Developer Miral have teamed up with SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment to deliver the latest addition to an impressive selection of entertainment spots at Yas Island, already featuring the crown jewels of Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi and the Yas Marina F1 track.
“This is yet another great new addition to Yas Island’s immersive attractions and experiences," said Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, chairman of Miral.
"It will help further position the island as a top global destination and contribute to the growth of Abu Dhabi’s tourism vision.
"We are proud to have partnered with SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment on this incredible project, which brings more than 55 years of expertise in marine conservation and world class marine animal care to Yas Island.”
Once complete, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will showcase six distinct realms which together aim to tell an immersive story of Earth's connection with its oceans.
Visitors will be able to explore one of the world's largest indoor aquariums and a whole host of interactive exhibits.
Scott Ross, chairman of SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment, said he was delighted to bring a key development to the Emirates.
“It’s a privilege to partner with Miral, a best-in-class organization, to build the first new SeaWorld Park in over 30 years and the first outside of North America," said Mr Ross.
"Yas Island is a visionary and transformational project and is already becoming a landmark destination for global travellers. We are thrilled SeaWorld will be a part of this special place, which will further expand our vitally important marine life research, rescue, conservation and education efforts in the region.”
The vast Yas Island facility will be home to the UAE's first dedicated marine research, rescue, rehabilitation and return centre.
The centre will serve as an advanced knowledge hub for researchers, scientists, and marine conservationists to better understand and protect the region’s marine life and ecosystem.
Its work will include include live studies into indigenous Gulf species such as dugongs and sea turtles.
SeaWorld Abu Dhabi is rapidly taking shape, with more than half of the required concrete poured, the heaviest 50-tonne steel column installed, and acrylic for the exhibits successfully fitted.
