UAE and Saudi Arabia Resorts Enhance Family Tourism with Water Parks and Aquatic Attractions to Boost Revenue Growth

Published on December 1, 2025

As the boundaries between leisure and sport tourism become increasingly blurred, resorts in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) are evolving their offerings to cater to new consumer demands. WhiteWater, in partnership with Grand Hyatt Dubai, has recently introduced the Middle East’s first FlowRider® Triple, a high-capacity aquatic attraction aimed at increasing repeat visitation and enhancing the guest experience. This addition, located within a newly opened 20,000 m² water park at the resort, highlights a growing trend in the region—investing in cutting-edge aquatic amenities that boost family engagement, increase guest stays, and drive revenue year-round.

The Rise of Aquatic Attractions in the Middle East

With the tourism sector in MENA booming, the region’s hospitality industry is experiencing unprecedented growth. By 2025, the sector is projected to contribute $367 billion to the regional economy and support 7.7 million jobs. This rapid expansion is creating a highly competitive market where resorts must innovate to stand out. One of the most noticeable trends in this competitive landscape is the rise of aquatic attractions, particularly at luxury resorts, which serve as essential tools for increasing occupancy, extending guest stays, and driving revenue.

WhiteWater, a leading manufacturer of aquatic amenities, has observed a shift in how hotel operators approach luxury. Gone are the days when simply meeting guest expectations was enough. Today, resorts are aiming to exceed those expectations with extensive amenities, particularly those that offer convenience and entertainment for families. The addition of water parks, wave simulators, and other interactive attractions allows resorts to not only compete but thrive in a market where unique offerings are key to long-term success.

A Case Study: Grand Hyatt Dubai’s Strategic Investment

At Grand Hyatt Dubai, the introduction of the FlowRider® Triple is a prime example of how resorts are investing in attractions that benefit both guests and the property’s bottom line. The new water park, strategically designed to cater to families, aligns with the resort’s luxury positioning and aims to increase its appeal as a year-round destination. Fathi Khogaly, Managing Director at Grand Hyatt Dubai & Area Vice President, emphasized that the goal is not just to offer a place to stay but to create a compelling destination that draws families in and encourages them to spend more time and money at the resort.

The FlowRider® Triple, a dynamic attraction that combines surfing and bodyboarding, is expected to generate excitement, attracting both locals and international tourists to the property. With its high capacity and strong spectator appeal, the attraction is designed to keep guests engaged for longer periods, thereby increasing revenue per visitor. The partnership between WhiteWater and Grand Hyatt Dubai underscores the growing importance of leisure and entertainment facilities in the region’s hospitality landscape.

Growing Demand for Family-Friendly Resorts

The trend of adding water-based attractions extends beyond Dubai. In Antalya, Turkey, Regnum Carya Golf & Spa Resort opened Aqualantis, a 20,000 m² resort water park, despite being located next to the larger Land of Legends Theme Park. Recognizing the benefits of keeping guests on-site for longer periods, Regnum Carya decided to add their own water park, a decision that has directly contributed to an increase in average daily rates (ADR). The addition of on-site attractions such as water parks has been shown to increase revenue by $25 to $150 per room, as guests tend to stay longer and spend more when provided with entertainment options.

Similarly, the Dead Sea Marriott Resort & Spa in Jordan recently introduced several new aquatic amenities, including kids’ slides, a splash pad, and an AquaPlay 300 structure. These additions were also supplied by WhiteWater, highlighting the company’s expertise in designing and providing water-based attractions tailored to specific audiences. In both cases, the investments in water parks and aquatic amenities reflect a broader industry shift towards creating immersive experiences that cater to families, enhance guest satisfaction, and ultimately drive profitability.

The Strategic Importance of Aquatic Amenities

As competition in the MENA region intensifies, it is clear that resorts that invest in innovative attractions—especially those that enhance the guest experience—will be the ones that thrive. Aquatic amenities, in particular, offer resorts the ability to stand out in a crowded market. These attractions not only appeal to families but also encourage repeat visits and longer stays, both of which contribute significantly to revenue growth.

Water parks and aquatic attractions help resorts extend their appeal beyond traditional hotel offerings. By providing guests with entertainment options that cater to all ages, resorts can keep families engaged for extended periods. In an era where guests are increasingly seeking more than just a place to stay, resorts that offer dynamic on-site experiences are able to attract high-value customers who are willing to spend more during their vacations.

A Focus on Family Tourism

One of the key drivers behind this trend is the growing demand for family tourism in the MENA region. Families, particularly those from the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, are increasingly seeking destinations that provide a variety of entertainment options for all family members. The appeal of water parks, wave simulators, and interactive attractions is clear: they allow families to enjoy leisure time together while also benefiting from the convenience of staying at a luxury resort.

As more resorts integrate water-based attractions into their offerings, they are tapping into a lucrative market of family travellers. By creating an environment that is both fun and relaxing, these resorts can foster loyalty among guests, encouraging them to return year after year. The addition of family-friendly amenities is not only about meeting guest expectations but also about enhancing them, ensuring that guests have an unforgettable experience that will keep them coming back.

Conclusion: The Future of Luxury Resorts in MENA

The introduction of water parks and other aquatic attractions is reshaping the luxury hospitality landscape in the Middle East and North Africa. As the region continues to experience rapid growth in tourism, resorts that invest in high-quality attractions will be best positioned to succeed in a highly competitive market. By offering immersive experiences that cater to families, resorts can increase guest satisfaction, extend stays, and boost profitability.

With the support of industry leaders like WhiteWater, resorts across MENA are able to create unique, engaging experiences that not only meet but exceed guest expectations. As the demand for luxury family tourism grows, resorts that prioritize innovation, convenience, and entertainment will lead the way in shaping the future of the region’s hospitality sector.

[Source: PR Newswire; Image Credit: PR Newswire]