Local developer Miral has invited contractors to express interest in construction work on its SeaWorld theme park project on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi.

Miral and the US’ Seaworld Entertainment announced the partnership to develop a SeaWorld theme park in late 2016.

The marine life themed park will include the UAE’s first dedicated marine life research, rescue, rehabilitation and return centre as well as resources for the care and conservation of local marine life.

SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will be the first new SeaWorld attraction without orcas (killer whales). Captive killer whales has become a controversial issue in the US with campaigners demanding their release.

The Seaworld project is part of Miral’s broader plans to double visitor numbers to Yas Island to 48 million by the year 2022.

In late December, Miral awarded Netherlands-based Bam International the contract to build the arena, plaza and retail area at the AED12bn ($3.3bn) Yas Bay master development in Abu Dhabi.

Set for completion in 2019, the indoor arena will be able to hold up to 18,000 people and will be used to host events in a temperature-controlled environment.

Miral is also understood to have shortlisted two groups for the contract to build the family hotel at Yas Bay. The four-star hotel will have 641 rooms, 43 retail units and 1,500 car parking spaces.

In 2018 Miral plans to open Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, and Clymb. Its existing theme parks on Yas Island are Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld.