Although it already has 200 islands to its name, the United Arab Emirates is planning to add one more – in the metaverse.
Come 2023, the UAE is set to launch a metaverse version of Yas Island in its famous capital Abu Dhabi, which is also home to an F1 circuit, aquariums, theme parks and even shopping malls. However, in a bid to allow just about everyone access to the forthcoming island, it’s being set in a digital environment.
In partnership with several businesses and tech platforms, including Flash Entertainment, Miral, Abu Dhabi Motorsport, and Roblox, the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) is already working on transforming the 25 square kilometre island into a whole new digital space where individuals can interact, play games and explore the island.
Mohammed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral commented, “We are proud to announce that people from every corner of the globe will soon be able to enjoy captivating and immersive experiences across Yas Island in the digital world. Spearheading the leisure and entertainment industry, we have collaborated with key entities to offer visitors a new way to explore and discover all that Yas Island has to offer, from world-class theme parks to attending global events”.
Just add homes, theme parks and an F1 track
Once built, visitors can also build virtual homes and visit the theme parks on offer. Some attractions include the rollercoaster in Ferrari World and the chance to zoom around the F1 racetrack.
His Excellency Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary at DCT Abu Dhabi, said “Innovation is central to DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to be at the forefront of what is possible. With the Yas Island metaverse, we are inviting the world to experience the excitement of Abu Dhabi’s incredible leisure and entertainment destination – virtually – like never before. As the emirate’s offerings evolve, this project provides a new and compelling perspective which allows the world to discover Abu Dhabi in its own time and space. The innovative, interactive platform is perfect for highlighting the exceptional lifestyle, cultural and entertainment experiences that Abu Dhabi presents to all visitors and will give both virtual residents and travellers the power to curate their own unique Abu Dhabi itinerary – within a whole new sphere of reality”.
As aforesaid, the digital island is currently under development and is set to launch in early 2023.
Isa Muhammad is a writer and video game journalist covering many aspects of entertainment media including the film industry. He's steadily writing his way to the sharp end of journalism and enjoys staying informed. If he's not reading, playing video games or catching up on his favourite TV series, then he's probably writing about them.
