Abu Dhabi: Emergency teams have successfully contained a fire that broke out Friday afternoon at a construction site on Yas Island, home to the popular Yas Waterworld water park. The incident occurred in the under-construction extension area of the park, which is currently undergoing significant expansion.
On March 28, 2025, emergency services were swiftly deployed to manage the situation after thick black smoke was seen billowing into the sky, visible from miles away. The fire erupted around 2 PM local time, prompting Abu Dhabi Police and Civil Defence to cordon off the area and redirect traffic around Yas Bay to facilitate access for emergency responders.
Videos circulating on social media showcased the dramatic scene, with smoke rising above notable landmarks such as Ferrari World and Yas Marina Circuit. As the fire raged, officials advised motorists to seek alternative routes to avoid the vicinity of the incident.
The authorities confirmed that no injuries or casualties have been reported as a result of the fire. "Teams from Abu Dhabi Police and Abu Dhabi Civil Defence have attended a fire that broke out on a construction site this afternoon on Yas Island," the police stated on social media platform X. They further reassured the public, saying, "No injuries were reported, and the fire has been successfully extinguished. Cooling and smoke extraction operations are currently underway."
Investigations into the cause of the fire are ongoing. While the exact origin remains unclear, it is believed to have started in the area designated for Yas Waterworld's expansion. The park, which originally opened in 2013, is undergoing a substantial upgrade, including a 16,900-square-metre addition that will feature 18 new rides and attractions, among which is touted to be the UAE's highest water slide and the first integrated waterslide complex in the region.
Yas Waterworld is one of Abu Dhabi's premier tourist destinations, boasting 45 rides, slides, and seasonal events across its sprawling 15-hectare site. It is strategically located just minutes away from other major attractions like Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and CLYMB Abu Dhabi. Over the years, Yas Waterworld has hosted various high-profile events, including the World Flowboarding Championships, and continues to attract a diverse crowd of water sports enthusiasts.
The park is owned and operated by Miral Asset Management, a company that has played a pivotal role in the development of Abu Dhabi's entertainment landscape. Despite the fire, officials have not released detailed information regarding any potential impact on the ongoing expansion project or park activities.
As the situation develops, authorities have emphasized the importance of obtaining information only from official sources to prevent the spread of misinformation. Further updates are expected as investigations progress and more details become available.
In a city known for its vibrant attractions and cutting-edge developments, the incident at Yas Waterworld serves as a reminder of the challenges that come with large-scale construction projects. While the immediate threat has been managed, the focus now shifts to understanding the cause of the fire and ensuring safety protocols are reinforced to prevent future occurrences.
As the community awaits further information, the swift response of emergency services has been praised, highlighting their preparedness in dealing with such incidents. The incident underscores the importance of safety in construction zones, especially in areas frequented by tourists and families.
Moving forward, officials will likely assess the fire's impact on both the expansion timeline of Yas Waterworld and the overall safety measures in place at the park. As one of the crown jewels of Abu Dhabi's entertainment offerings, the park's resilience and ability to bounce back from such setbacks will be closely monitored by both locals and visitors alike.
In conclusion, while the fire at Yas Waterworld was a significant incident, the effective response from emergency teams ensured that no lives were lost, and the situation was contained swiftly. As investigations continue, the community remains hopeful for a speedy recovery and a successful completion of the park's ambitious expansion plans.
