Yas Island Being Recreated in the Metaverse, Opening in 2023

Yas Island Being Recreated in the Metaverse, Opening in 2023

Yas, Island, one of the world’s fastest growing leisure and entertainment destinations, is entering the metaverse as part of a pioneering project to put Abu Dhabi in the virtual world.

The initiative is a collaboration between DCT Abu Dhabi, Aldar, Miral, twofour54, Abu Dhabi Motorsports Management, Flash Entertainment and Yas Island.

“Innovation is central to DCT Abu Dhabi’s commitment to be at the forefront of what is possible,” said Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, undersecretary at DCT Abu Dhabi.

“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.”

He said the “innovative, interactive platform” will give virtual residents and guests “the power to curate their own unique Abu Dhabi itinerary”.

The entire physical destination of Yas Island is being recreated across multiple immersive 3D platforms, with virtual visitors enjoying the metaverse ecosystem from home.

Per a news release, guests will be able to gather, socialize, play, create and transact. They will build and buy digital homes, explore cultural attractions, and experience Yas Island’s theme parks, special events and a motorsport racing circuit. Talal Al Dhiyebi, CEO at Aldar, said the metaverse project is “the next evolution of Yas Island…firmly placing Yas Island and Abu Dhabi on the global metaverse map.”

Mohammed Abdalla Al Zaabi, CEO of Miral, said people |from every corner of the globe will soon be able to enjoy captivating and immersive experiences across Yas Island in the digital world.”

Al Meera Opens MAAR branches at Three Metro Stations

Al Meera Consumer Goods Company has announced the opening of three more ‘MAAR by Al Meera’ locations at Al Aziziyah, Al Doha Al Jadeeda, and Al Wakra metro stations.

The opening of the three new locations increases the network of MAAR stores to six branches in various metro stations, including the Umm Ghuwailina, Doha Exhibition and Convention Centre (DECC), and Msheireb metro stations. The MAAR store, a sub-brand of Al Meera, will provide quick shopping service to metro passengers and the teeming football fans expected in Qatar during the muchanticipated first FIFA World Cup in the Middle East and Arab region as they transit through the metro stations.

MAAR offers a wide array of products and everyday essential goods, including a selection of ready-to-eat foods such as sandwiches and snacks, at competitive prices as available in Al Meera stores across the country.

In celebration of the upcoming World Cup, all branches at the Metro will offer residents, fans, and visitors a wide range of Official Licensed FIFA products, such as scarves, hats, and balls, among others, including Laeeb, the event’s mascot, which is exclusively available at Al Meera supermarket.

MAAR’s branches across the six metro stations will provide passengers with the opportunity to purchase their desired items on the go.

Commenting on the launch of the three branches, Al Meera stated: “With over 60 branches across the country and continuous opening of MAAR stores, Al Meera is keen to serve a wide segment of the society, especially as the country is in the euphoria of the world’s largest sporting event to kick off in 27 days.” SOURCE: GULF TIMES | 23 OCT 2022 (https://bit.ly/3TOwb4M)

Abu Dhabi entering the virtual world

Currently in the development phase, Yas Island is being recreated using various metaverse platforms, including The Sandbox and Roblox.

It is scheduled to be completed in the first quarter of next year, when it will be operational and available to digital visitors.

“Metaverses also bring a host of opportunities to gamify areas such as education in a truly immersive way, resulting in a significant positive social impact for the community,” said James Hartt, Director of Strategic Partnerships at AD Gaming.

John Lickrish, CEO of Flash Entertainment, said the metaverse initiative will “provide new experiences to meet the demands of the changing event and entertainment landscape.” SOURCE: BLOOLOOPS |20 OCT 2022 (https://bit.ly/3CYl0j4)