Kelly Slater’s Abu Dhabi Wavepool: Everything to Know About the Mega Middle East Synthetic Surfing Destination

For months, now, the surf world’s had their eyes glued to an unlikely region of the globe, the Middle East, and the very secretive construction of a Kelly Slater wavepool.

Surf Abu Dhabi, touted as a wave featuring “the world’s longest ride, biggest barrel, and largest man-made wave pool, was discovered by Google Earth aerial photos, then confirmed by the WSL (who owns KSWC), then leaked through UAE air force footage.

And now, we have the first footage of Slater himself surfing his own wave deep in the Middle East, which will surely have an impact on surfing’s future one way or the other. But how? Will the WSL Finals Day be held in Abu Dhabi? Is this a radical shift for surfing’s future. Whatever the case, keep reading; here’s what we do know...for now.

Where is it?

As mentioned, and in the title, it’s in Abu Dhabi, the posh capital of the United Arab Emirates. It’s located on Hudayriyat Island, which has multiple facilities from Modon Properties, which expands upon this specific location as such:

“Modon specializes in developing vibrant and sustainable residential communities that cater exclusively to the needs of discerning UAE residents. Every step of the way, our values guide the design and build of our destinations.

“We are renowned for our vibrant and culturally centered destinations, which are artfully designed and expertly constructed to please locals, expats, and tourists alike. Our remarkable havens, with their rich offering of leisure and recreational attractions, bear all the hallmarks of their locations’ proud heritage, being inspired by local history and culture. Curating unique and wholly satisfying lifestyle experiences, these exciting developments treat tourists and residents to the distinctive wonders of nature.”

What about the wave?

As previously motioned, and put out by a press release from Modon, the facility will:

“Set to open by the end of 2023, Surf Abu Dhabi will be the biggest and most advanced artificial wave facility in the world. Designed in partnership with Kelly Slater Wave Co., the landmark destination will offer a high-performance surfing experience, featuring the world’s longest ride, biggest barrel, and largest man-made wave pool. Underscoring Abu Dhabi’s sporting and leisure credentials, the exclusive surfing complex seeks to attract everyone from beginners to pro-surfers. Surf Abu Dhabi will provide an ideal location to host major international events and will play a major role in developing the surfing community locally, regionally, and globally.”

Big claims. Big claims.

What tech does it use?

Assumedly, it’s the same stuff seen at Surf Ranch. Sure looks like it, don’t it? Except on a much bigger scale. As Modon said, it will be the “biggest and most advanced artificial wave facility in the world.” No specifics on the size have been made readily available…yet.

When will it open?

Like the press release above stated, the end of 2023 is the goal. And with Kelly already surfing the first wave, perhaps that’s valid. Stay tuned.

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