Prasenjit Chakraborty - Mumbai Experience Hub has implemented a variety of precautionary measures to ensure that guests and employees feel safe at all Yas Theme Parks, attractions and hotels, and in the process become the first destination in Abu Dhabi to receive the coveted WTTC ‘Safe Travels’ stamp in recognition of its advanced safety efforts, says Marijana Mihajlovic, Director of Business Development, Experience Hub, in an interaction with Prasenjit Chakraborty.
Q.The pandemic has significantly changed the market dynamic. In this backdrop which are key source markets for Yas Island in 2021?
Throughout the pandemic period,Experience Hub, the trade and promotion arm of Yas Island Abu Dhabi, has been virtually engaging with travel trade in key source markets including UK, Russia, China, India and GCC, and training them online to assure continuous product knowledge in preparation for gradual market re-openings.
Q.Can you tell us what one can expect from their visit to Yas Island in terms of a wholesome family experience?
From award-winning theme parks to numerous leisure activities, Yas Island has a lot to offer to the tourists. The Island has a mix of award-winning leisure and entertainment experiences, from one-of-a-kind theme parks,world-class shopping and superb dining, to the globally-renowned links golf course, exciting water and motorsports, and spectacular musical, entertainment and family events… all within the 25 sq km Island. The travellers can immerse themselves in an experience like no other at the award-winning theme parks Ferrari World Abu experiences. The destination also features indoor and outdoor concert venues, including MAD and Etihad Arena – all of which
are complemented by a range of visitor services that connect all attractions to one another.
Q.What events are being lined up for the coming winter?
Yas Island is offering families a magical escape to a fairy tale land this winter, when ‘Disney On Ice: Find Your Hero’ takes to the stage at Etihad Arena from September 2 to 11, 2021. With a long-awaited return to events, Disney legends Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy will take audiences on an action-packed adventure filled with tales of heroism from its most-loved characters,including Moana, Anna and Elsa, and Ariel.
Q.Looking at the current scenario, what steps have you undertaken to ensure a safe experience for tourists?
Given that the health and safety of guests is Yas Island’s top priority, we have implemented a variety of precautionary measures to ensure that guests and employees feel safe at all Yas Theme Parks, attractions and the hotels. We have become the first destination in Abu Dhabi to receive the coveted WTTC ‘Safe Travels’ stamp in recognition of our advanced safety efforts.Maintaining the highest standards of public health and safety, Yas Island introduced numerous safety measures including the ‘#TogetherAtYas’ online platform which offers guests a guide to the public health and safety protocols on Yas Island, and the widely commended ‘Yas Wellness Program’, which grants guests direct access to a dedicated team of Yas Wellness ambassadors.The Wellness Ambassadors are a team of specially trained individuals who are able to answer guests’ queries on the health and safety measures in place. In order to continually bridge guests to Yas Island,the Wellness Ambassadors are contactable via phone, social media, WhatsApp and email from 8 am to 5pm UAE time, daily.
Q.Could you tell us more about the cutting-edge technology Facepass that you are going to implement soon? How will it help visitors in terms of safety?
Yas Island is on track to become a fully contactless destination through the adoption of FacePass. Rolled out in phases across the island, it will streamline guest experiences using facial recognition.This kind of contactless technology is the future for all consumer-facing businesses. Not only does it save time and provide unrivalled convenience,it largely enhances guest safety and wellbeing through touchless interaction, ensuring worldclass safety measures and ease of social distancing.
Q.What are your plans for the India market post pandemic?
We are very keen to invite our Indian travellers back to Yas Island when the time is right.Once Indian travel resumes, we shall certainly have some exciting packages specifically for the Indian market.
prasenjit.chakraborty@saffronsynergies.in
