Image: The park will spread across 15 hectares

Yas Waterworld, marketed as Abu Dhabi's first waterpark, is on course to open its doors on Yas Island by the end of this year. Spread across 15 hectares (37 acres), the waterpark will feature a range of 43 rides, slides and attractions.

Four of the park's rides will be unique to the attraction. These include the Bandit Bomber - a steel coaster from Vekoma designed to be the first roller coaster in the world to have on-board water and laser special effects.

The attractions's theme is based on a legend that represents local Emirati culture and heritage. Visitors will be able to follow the adventures of the waterpark's main character Dana - a young Emirati girl in search of a legendary pearl that brought prosperity to her village.

Yas Waterworld Abu Dhabi on Yas Island is being developed by Aldar Properties and will be operated by Farah Leisure Parks Management LLC.

Mohamed Al Mubarak, deputy CEO of Aldar Properties, said: "We are particularly excited about the newest member of the Yas Island family - Yas Waterworld.

"It will provide an important addition to the attractions of on offer. The water park pays tribute to the Emirati culture and heritage of pearl diving, and offers rides and attractions for every member of the family."

The park was given planning approval from the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council in 2010 and Aldar appointed the UK-based Atkins as lead designer for the project.

• Yas island is a US$36bn (US$29bn, £23bn) mixed-use project by Aldar. The 2,500 hectare (6,200 acre) area includes the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix circuit and a wide range of attractions, hotels and resorts.