Global Humane Certifies SeaWorld Parks

(L-R): Dr. Christopher Dold, Thomas Kaferle – Miral Group, Rob Yordi – Sea World, Julien Kauffmann – Miral Group, and Robin Ganzert

(PRESS RELEASE)_​PALM BEACH, FL – Global Humane—the international brand of American Humane, which is the world’s largest certifier of animal welfare—along with SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment and Miral recently announced the certification of both SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue. It’s the first Global Humane certification in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region and signifies the high standard of animal care provided at the marine life theme park and rescue facility located adjacent to the park. All SeaWorld parks are American Humane certified. 
 
For more than a hundred years, American Humane (with offices in Palm Beach and Washington, D.C.) has been first in promoting the welfare and safety of animals and strengthening the bond between animals and people. The organization is behind many important animal welfare initiatives, including the “No Animals Were Harmed®” program in Hollywood.

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“We are thrilled that SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue have joined their U.S. counterparts in meeting the standards to become Global Humane Certified,” said Dr. Robin Ganzert, President and CEO of American Humane. “SeaWorld Abu Dhabi will give residents of the United Arab Emirates a unique opportunity to experience the wonders of the ocean up close, helping to inspire the next generation of conservationists. This is SeaWorld’s first location abroad and provides Global Humane with the opportunity to recognize the extensive reach of the animal welfare movement at zoos, aquariums, and conservation parks around the world.”
 
Rigorous Certification Standards
To receive Global Humane Certification, SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue have passed a rigorous third-party assessment—which after years of preparation—reviewed the well-being of animals in the park’s care. The unique process is guided by the latest science and is informed by respected veterinarians and experts in the fields of animal welfare, animal science, zoology, and ethics that have decades of experience in protecting animals. 
 
The independent validation process—which goes above and beyond to help protect animals—provides park visitors with the confidence the institution is meeting a high benchmark of care. The process includes a pre-audit application period that is followed up by an onsite visit that assesses animal welfare. Factors considered during the audit include, but are not limited to, housing, food, water, lighting, shade, sound, activity levels, and the training of staff who are interacting with the animals. The specific benchmarks are species specific.
 
Dr. Chris Dold, Chief Zoological Officer of SeaWorld Parks and Entertainment said, “American Humane is a well-respected independent animal welfare organization whose rigorous standards ensure that animals live healthy and safe lives in human care. For nearly 60 years our parks have played an important role in inspiring and educating the public about marine animals and providing exceptional standards of care is integral to that mission. We share American Humane’s passion and commitment to the well-being of animals as validated by meeting and exceeding their certification standards in all our U.S. parks. We are proud to now receive Global Humane certification for the first SeaWorld outside of the U.S. as we extend our mission to the United Arab Emirates where the Arabian gulf is an important marine ecosystem and integral to the fabric of the Abu Dhabi community.”
 
“At Miral Experiences, we are dedicated to delivering world-class attractions that go beyond entertainment to provide truly memorable guest experiences. With SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, this extends to us innovatively educating our guests and demonstrating our commitment towards providing the best care for our animals in the process,” said Julien Kauffman, CEO of Miral Experiences. “The Global Humane certification for SeaWorld Abu Dhabi and Yas SeaWorld Research & Rescue is a testament to our commitment to these values and a celebration of the efforts that have gone into ensuring that we meet the highest global standards in our facilities. We believe that by offering an immersive and educational experience, we can inspire our guests to become lifelong champions of marine life and the environment. Our partnership with SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment and our certification by Global Humane reinforces our dedication to raising the standard for animal welfare in the region."