Yas Waterworld, marketed as Abu Dhabi's first waterpark, has announced it will open its doors on 24 January 2013, having previously expected to open by the end of the 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 attraction's theme is based on local Emirati legends and pearl diving heritage.

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

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.