No opening date for delayed Surf Abu Dhabi artificial wave attraction

Originally scheduled to open as of late last year, the much anticipated Surf Abu Dhabi attraction remains unopened with no advice when guests will be able to take to its waves.

Located on Abu Dhabi's Hudayriyat Island, the high-performance surfing facility is set to be the world’s second surfing lagoon offering Kelly Slater wave pool technology.

To be built and operated by state-owned developer Modon Properties, the attraction has been promoted as “the most advanced surf park in the world” that will feature the world’s largest man-made pool with the longest barrel and the longest ride.

However, despite reports of Kelly Slater and other leading pro surfers tested the attraction late last year there have been few other updates on how the attraction is progressing towards opening.

At the time, Slater revealed details of the attraction’s advanced wave and also the emergence of softer waves courtesy of a new ‘W’ shaped reef designed to accommodate more learner and intermediate surfers.

This was accompanied by advice from the Kelly Slater Wave Company that “Surf Abu Dhabi is designed to inspire and cater to surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to elite.

“This innovative destination will offer a unique surfing experience, featuring the world’s longest ride, largest barrel, and highest man-made wave.”

An exception came in February this year when the Surfer website reported that eight-time world champion, Stephanie Gilmore had surfed "a 12-second barrel" adding that the attraction's opening was "likely in the coming months".

However, since then there has been no updates from the developers other than advertisement for employee positions at the attraction.

Inquiries about the potential opening date from Asian Leisure Business have not been replied to.

Image: Concept for Surf Abu Dhabi. Credit: Google Earth.