Atlantis Dubai Is The First Destination In The Middle East To Be Granted Prestigious AZA Accreditation
Signifying its unwavering commitment to uphold the international standards of animal care, conservation and education, the ocean-themed resort is the only AZA accredited brand in the region
To coincide with World Oceans Day, Atlantis Dubai is thrilled to announce that it has been granted accreditation by the Association of Zoos & Aquariums (AZA). AZA is the independent accrediting organisation for the best zoos and the best aquariums in the world, assuring the public that when they visit an AZA-accredited facility, it meets the highest standards for animal care and welfare. There are now 240 AZA accredited facilities worldwide, with just 23 of these members – including Atlantis Dubai – being outside of the USA.
Tim Kelly, Executive Vice President and Managing Director, Atlantis Dubai , is understandably proud of this new endorsement being granted to the all-encompassing destination: “We are delighted to be the first in the Middle East to receive this internationally recognised, gold standard accreditation. Atlantis Dubai is currently home to over 65,000 marine animals residing at The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Sea Lion Point and Dolphin Bay. When Atlantis, The Royal opens in 2021 it will also fall under this accreditation. The specialist team at Atlantis Dubai are consistently practising the highest standards of animal care and, by achieving AZA accreditation, it provides recognition for their skills, commitment and dedication.”
In order to achieve the accreditation, Atlantis Dubai underwent a thorough review to ensure it met – and will continue to meet – ever-rising standards in each category. These include animal care and welfare, veterinary programmes, conservation, education, and safety. AZA requires zoos and aquariums to successfully complete this rigorous accreditation process every five years in order to be retain membership of the association.
“AZA accreditation signifies Atlantis Dubai’s active role in protecting our world’s wild animals and wild places while providing exceptional animal care and meaningful guest experiences, said AZA's President and CEO, Dan Ashe, adding: “Atlantis Dubai is truly a leader in the zoological profession, and I am proud to have them among our members.”
The AZA accreditation process includes a detailed application and a meticulous on-site inspection by a team of trained zoo and aquarium professionals. The inspecting team observes all aspects of the facility’s operation including animal care and welfare; keeper training; safety for visitors, staff and animals; educational programs; conservation efforts; veterinary programs; financial stability; risk management; visitor services; and more. Finally, top officials are interviewed at a formal hearing of AZA’s independent Accreditation Commission, after which accreditation is granted, tabled, or denied. Any facility that is denied may reapply one year after the Commission’s decision is made.
Kelly Timmins, Director, Conservation, Education and CSR, Atlantis Dubai said : “Modern zoos and aquariums today play a crucial role in conservation, not only helping people to learn, but to protect animals in the wild. Achieving AZA Accreditation is the first achievement in a much larger strategy, which will see the resort increase its commitment to sustainability while driving conservation action. We look forward to being part of the AZA community and collaborating with both local and international partners as we embark on this exciting journey.”
About Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai
Atlantis, The Palm is the first entertainment resort destination in the region and located at the centre of the crescent of The Palm in Dubai. Opened in September 2008, the unique ocean-themed resort features a variety of marine and entertainment attractions, as well as 17 hectares of waterpark amusement at Atlantis Aquaventure, all within a 46-hectare site. It is home to one of the largest open-air marine habitats in the world, with over 65,000 marine animals in lagoons and displays including The Lost Chambers Aquarium, a maze of underwater corridors and passageways providing a journey through ancient Atlantis. Atlantis Aquaventure waterpark features 18 million litres of fresh water used to power thrilling waterslides, a 2.3-kilometre river ride with tidal waves and pools, water rapids and white-water chargers. Dolphin Bay, the unparalleled dolphin conservation and education habitat, and Sea Lion Point were created to provide guests a once in a lifetime opportunity to learn more about one of nature’s most friendly mammals. The resort boasts an impressive collection of luxury boutiques and shops as well as extensive meeting and convention facilities. Atlantis, The Palm is also known as the culinary destination in the region where guests can take their pick from a collection of 29 world-renowned restaurants including Bread Street Kitchen & Bar, Hakkasan, Nobu, Ronda Locatelli, Seafire Steakhouse & Bar, award-winning underwater restaurant, Ossiano, and traditional Middle Eastern favourite, Ayamna. The nightlife scene at Atlantis is lively, too, with the fun-filled Wavehouse offering something for everyone, and WHITE Beach & Restaurant the perfect place to unwind with a drink as the sun slips into the Arabian Sea.
About AZA
Founded in 1924, the Association of Zoos and Aquariums is a nonprofit organization dedicated to the advancement of zoos and aquariums in the areas of conservation, animal welfare, education, science, and recreation. AZA is the accrediting body for the top zoos and aquariums in the United States and six other countries. Look for the AZA accreditation logo whenever you visit a zoo or aquarium as your assurance that you are supporting a facility dedicated to providing excellent care for animals, a great experience for you, and a better future for all living things. The AZA is a leader in saving species and your link to helping animals all over the world. To learn more, visit www.aza.org.