In the age of digitization and intelligent automation, the water parks sector is rapidly adopting new technologies to enhance operations and customer experiences.
Globally, organizations are striving to create touchless experiences that streamline operations, reduce costs, and address common pain points. This trend is evident in countries like Saudi Arabia, where the economy is projected to double to $1.6 trillion, with an additional $293 billion expected by 2030, according to a recent Automation Anywhere study.
WhiteWater, the world’s largest supplier of water parks and services, has ventured beyond traditional attractions with its software arm, Vantage. Vantage won the 2022 International Association of Amusement Parks and Attractions (IAAPA) Impact Award for its innovation in simplifying guest entry. This technology allows visitors to purchase their water park passes online, bypassing long lines at the entrance.
Jeremy Gray, VP of Business Development at WhiteWater, remarked, “The implementation of technology in the entertainment sector not only enhances guest safety but also provides operators with valuable insights into the overall guest experience. This data enables parks to optimize operations and boost revenue.”
A recent YouGov survey revealed that 96% of businesses in Saudi Arabia prioritize customer experience. Gray emphasized, “Knowledge is power. With technology, we gain access to data that can suggest improvements, whether it’s adding an ice cream cart during peak months or deploying more staff to busy areas during lunch.”
Miral, a UAE-based company specializing in immersive experiences, has integrated facial recognition technology on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi through its FacePass system. This innovation streamlines park access and transactions while enhancing safety through touchless interactions.
Digital transformation is a cornerstone of Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, positioning the country for significant growth. The Saudi ICT market, valued at over $32.1 billion, is the largest in the Middle East and North Africa. With international connectivity through the Red Sea and the Gulf, Saudi Arabia is poised for rapid economic expansion and has the potential to serve European, Asian, and African markets.
Gray believes, “Saudi Arabia has a unique opportunity to develop the most advanced water parks in the world. By starting from scratch, there’s an opportunity to integrate cutting-edge technology from the ground up, making these parks safer and more efficient.”
As demonstrated by Miral’s FacePass, ticketing is just one aspect of technological advancements in water parks. Versatile technologies are driving creative and operational improvements, enhancing guest experiences and safety. For instance, Vantage allows parents to set ride parameters for their children, ensuring young visitors avoid attractions that may be too intense.
With ongoing advancements, the water parks sector is poised to deliver unprecedented levels of personalization and safety, setting new standards for the industry.
