Warner Bros. Movie World Abu Dhabi Wins Applause Award 2026
Andreas Andersen (far right) and Tina Resch (far left) from Liseberg, along with Hind Galadari (2nd f. l.), Warner Bros. World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and Daniel Wills (2nd f. r.), Miral. // Photo: Courtesy of Liseberg
(eap) The “Applause Award”, regularly presented by the Swedish amusement park resort Liseberg, recognises amusement and theme parks worldwide for their operational and creative achievements. The 2026 Applause Award recently officially went to Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi on Yas Island in the United Arab Emirates.
“Warner Bros. World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi receives the Applause Award for the park’s exceptional achievements in creativity and innovation, being the first indoor theme park that genuinely rivals its outdoor competitors,” says Andreas Veilstrup Andersen, President and CEO, Liseberg Group and Chairman of The Applause Award Board of Governors. He added, “Miral, the leading creators of immersive destinations in Abu Dhabi, and the entity that built and operates the park, demonstrates a relentless commitment to investment, quality, and service, making Warner Bros. World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi the evident recipient of the first Applause Award presented to a park in the Middle East.“
“Receiving the 2026 Liseberg Applause Award as the first theme park in the Middle East is an incredibly proud moment for us. Most importantly, it celebrates the exceptional passion, creativity, and dedication of our teams and partners in crafting truly immersive, world-class experiences that deliver joyful and memorable moments for every guest. For Miral, this accolade is a testament to our ongoing efforts in further positioning Yas Island as a top global destination for leisure and entertainment, while contributing to achieving Abu Dhabi’s 2030 tourism vision,” said Dr. Mohammad Abdalla Al Zaabi, Group CEO of Miral.
The award ceremony took place as part of the “IAAPA Honors” industry event in Xcaret, Mexico, in mid-May. An overview of further awards presented by IAAPA during this event can be found in this EAP news. ■