U.S. theme park chain SeaWorld, which has been mired in controversy in recent years over its treatment of killer whales and other marine mammals, has opened a massive new aquatic life park in the United Arab Emirates.
People enjoy riding on a roller coster at the SeaWorld on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, on May 26, 2023. A decade after the outcry over its treatment of captive killer whales nearly put SeaWorld out of business, the company has opened a massive new marine life park in the United Arab Emirates, its first venture outside the United States. A $1.
SeaWorld and Miral declined multiple interview requests from The Associated Press. They also did not answer written questions or grant AP journalists access to the park.The documentary focused on the life of Tilikum, a 12,000-pound orca that killed trainer Dawn Brancheau when he dragged her into a pool at SeaWorld Orlando in 2010. The film implied that orcas become more aggressive in captivity.
The company's promotional materials say it is committed to rescuing and rehabilitating animals, and that a full-time staff of veterinarians ensures they are well cared for. Last year, its Orlando theme park opened a facilitythat were dying from starvation in their natural habitat. The company says it has raised $17 million to support hundreds of research and conservation projects around the globe.
“In nature, dolphins live in large, complex social groups and swim vast distances every day. In captivity, they can only swim in endless circles inside tanks that, to them, are the equivalent of bathtubs.” “In the wild, if there is aggression between two animals, they can simply swim away into the open ocean,” said John Jett, a former orca trainer at SeaWorld Orlando who spoke out against it in “Blackfish.” “But in captivity, the animals are trapped, and what you find is dolphin-on-dolphin aggression that is manifested quite often in broken teeth and rakes up and down their bodies.”
“It’s a form of non-oil diversification and soft power,” said Christopher Davidson, a former professor of Middle East politics at Durham University in Britain. “Association with big brands like this serves as a ready-made import to the UAE and will automatically translate into increased tourist numbers.”
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ Banned in United Arab Emirates, Likely Due to ‘Protect Trans Lives’ Poster“Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse” will not be released in the United Arab Emirates after failing to pass the country’s censorship requirements, Variety has confirmed. A scene …
Read more »
Four Arab countries account for 24% of record Israel arms salesIsrael's weapons exports hit all-time high of $12.5 billion, with Arab countries that recently normalised ties with Tel Aviv accounting for nearly quarter of purchases
Read more »
‘Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse’ Blocked In UAESony’s biggest hit of the summer, Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse, won’t be getting a release in the United Arab Emirates, Deadline has confirmed. The pic was set for release on Jun…
Read more »
New Spider-Man film will not screen in UAE, as region debates valuesThe United Arab Emirates will not screen Sony's 'Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse', Vox Cinemas said on Thursday without explanation, amid debate online and among regional movie fans about the animated film's treatment of transgender themes.
Read more »
Temecula Valley United School Superintendent fired amid Harvey Milk controversyTemecula Valley United School has fired Superintendent Jodi McClay in the wake of the Harvey Milk controversy involving the district's school board president. The School Board President came under fire for calling the slain former gay rights activist pedophile.
Read more »
Oklahoma softball team 'united in faith' wins College World Series: 'God has great things in store'Oklahoma Sooners softball player Grace Lyons shared how faith plays a pivotal role in the team's successes after securing a third consecutive national title.
Read more »