Latest news with #HouseofHype
Time Out Dubai
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
House of Hype: Why everyone you know can't stop talking about it
You've done the malls. You've brunched. You've beach-clubbed. Now it's time for something wildly unexpected. Welcome to House of Hype – Dubai's coolest immersive experience and the newest mega-wonderland taking over Dubai Mall. Cancel your plans. We've got better ones. Spanning 100,000 square feet, this isn't your average attraction. It's a City of Dreams, packed with 18 mind-bending immersive worlds with over 100 epic experiences, each designed to blow your mind. What to expect? Dubbed Dubai's best-kept secret, step through the doors and you're teleported into a whole new world. One moment you're wandering through a glowing garden that seems to breathe with you… The next? You're exploring a robotic palace, stumbling upon a glowing garden, or dancing with a flash mob under alien flowers. This place doesn't play by the rules of reality. Snap-worthy? Absolutely. It's social media gold. There's so much to see, from the hidden chandelier room to the emoji walkway and the digital graffiti wall. Every corner at House of Hype is full of interesting little details, built to break your algorithm and light up your feed. From glitching realities and melting cities to secret portals and floating dreams. Surreal landscapes and surprise performances make it impossible not to stop and stare. Hungry? Food here is as Insta-worthy as it is delicious. Grab top-notch handrolls made by the Time Out Award-winning and Michelin-recognised chef Reif Othman. Or pick up delicious matcha lattes made with the best Japanese green tea at Eleven7 or try out wildly imaginative ice creams disguised as fried chicken at Al Faik. Shopping? Get ready to drop dirhams on limited edition fashion and must-have collectibles. If you're a 90s kid, you'll love the nostalgic display of old-school toys and gadgets like Furbies, Beanie Babies, Care Bears and My Little Pony figurines, all set to a soundtrack of iconic Y2K pop hits. The experience is designed for everyone, so whether you're here solo, with the whole fam or with your besties, there's heaps to see, eat, do and be blown away by. Pricing Single entry tickets: Dhs149 Squad pass: 4 tickets for Dhs449 Discover pass: House of Hype + AYA Universe Combo ticket for Dhs225 The experience is open between 10am and 10pm from Sunday to Thursday, and until midnight on Fridays and Saturdays, with the last entry an hour before close. How to get there? If you're reaching by cab, it's easily accessible from the Boulevard side near the Social Distrikt entrance. There's free parking near the Fountain Views side, or you can also park by the Dubai Ice Rink and Reel Cinemas. So, if you're looking to swap the same old for something strange, surprising and seriously fun, give House of Hype a go. You'll be talking about it long after you leave. Book tickets now: Catch them on TikTok and Instagram.
Observer
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Observer
Dubai Esports and Games Festival shapes games future
MUSCAT: The fourth edition of Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF 2025) concluded after 17 days of the great excitement and thrill at Dubai World Trade Centre. The world event, organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), had launched the first edition in 2022. The DEF 2025 Festival sets out to shape emerging trends in both the regional and global gaming landscape, further strengthening Dubai's standing as a premier destination for esports, immersive digital entertainment, and cutting-edge innovation. This year's edition presented a dynamic lineup of events, including the vibrant GameExpo, high-stake esports tournaments, and influencer-led challenges. In addition, the GameExpo Summit offered a platform for industry leaders to exchange ideas and foster partnerships through its thought-provoking conference sessions and strategic B2B networking opportunities, drawing participation from companies around the globe. The festival attracted thousands of participants and spectators from across the region, offering a range of ticketing options to ensure accessibility for all, the tickets starting from AED 29 for students and AED 44 for adults for single-day access. The event featured dozens of esports tournaments and interactive challenges, with total prizes exceeding AED 500,000. Cosplayers strike a pose Brass Monkey gaming centre The games at House of Hype One of the most thrilling and popular games at the festival was Pac-Man which is a life-sized recreation of the iconic arcade game, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge interactive technology. Already a hit in Manchester, this immersive experience invites players to journey through a glowing digital maze, complete with stunning projections, pulse-pounding challenges, and surprise encounters around every corner. Brass Monkey at City Walk stands out as a vibrant entertainment hub, offering a wide selection of classic and modern games. With 12 bowling lanes, auto-scoring darts, billiards and a variety of retro arcade games, it provides a dynamic space where visitors can enjoy interactive and nostalgic gameplay in a lively setting. As part of the accompanying experiences during DEF 2025, House of Hype offered visitors an expansive interactive playground filled with over 100 immersive gaming and digital adventures. Located in the heart of Dubai Mall, the space featured virtual challenges, sensory environments, and unexpected interactive elements, making it a standout destination for gamers and thrill-seekers exploring the festival's broader scope. Bowling game at Brass Monkey DEF 2025 at Dubai World Trade Centre Testing a car racing game INDOOR VIRTUAL REALITY ZONE On the other hand, the world's biggest indoor virtual reality zone, VR Park, has now evolved into Play DXB. Located in Dubai Mall (with a second location now at Dubai Hills Mall), Play DXB offers more diverse entertainment with plenty of options that toddlers, teens and the young at heart can enjoy. This is the place to be for hours of non-stop fun and to test out your skills in fun competitive sessions with friends. Discover more than 30 game-changing adventures across a range of immersive and educational 'journeys'. Reminisce about the good old days on a classic carousel ride with the kids, or see if you can conquer the top scores at the arcade games. While the little ones have a ball at the inflatable playground and trampolines, you can don an Oculus gaming headset, delve into a Transformers-themed adventure and beat the bad guys. Testing PacMan game Pac-Man game StreetXO centre The Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF 2025) offered a dynamic blend of innovation, competition, and interactive entertainment. From high-energy esports tournaments to immersive digital experiences, the festival brought together gamers, tech enthusiasts, and families for a celebration of cutting-edge gaming culture. Its diverse sections catered to all ages and interests — from virtual reality zones and classic arcade setups to futuristic showcases and influencer challenges — creating a truly engaging atmosphere. After hours of gameplay and digital exploration, visitors naturally sought a moment of rest and culinary indulgence. Among the standout dining experiences was StreetXO, a unique venue that reinterprets global street food through bold and inventive techniques. Located in One Za'abeel, the restaurant offers a menu of creatively presented dishes that merge international flavors in unexpected ways, reflecting a playful yet sophisticated take on modern dining — the perfect pause in a day filled with adrenaline and adventure.
Gulf News
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf News
UAE: Top 5 indoor attractions in Dubai to beat the summer heat
Dubai: With summer temperatures in Dubai soaring between 40°C and 50°C, stepping outside for fun can feel impossible. Fortunately, the city's indoor attractions offer plenty of ways to stay entertained without the heat. From heart-pumping adventures to immersive experiences, there's something for everyone. Whether you are looking to relax, get your adrenaline fix, or unleash your creativity, these top spots offer a cool and exciting way to enjoy the city, while staying out of the sun. 1. Ski Dubai Experience winter in the desert at Ski Dubai, inside the Mall of the Emirates. Easily recognised by its slanted roof, this indoor ski resort offers a range of activities beyond just skiing. Visitors can meet penguins, build snowmen, ride the Twin Track Bobsled, or explore the snow cavern. For those seeking a different thrill, there is a frozen zip-line and a classic chairlift leading to the top of the slope. Access to the slopes ranges from Dh250 to Dh450, depending on the package. Ski Dubai also features a Snow Park with a training area, wall climbing, tubing and more. 2. IMG Worlds of Adventure IMG Worlds of Adventure is one of Dubai's largest indoor theme parks, covering the size of more than 28 football fields. Divided into different zones, the park brings Marvel superheroes, Cartoon Network characters and even dinosaurs to life. Thrill-seekers can ride roller coasters like the Velociraptor and Predator, or join The Avengers and Powerpuff Girls in action-packed experiences. Younger visitors can enjoy the IMG Kids Zone, with separate entry prices. General admission tickets cost AED365, while children under 105cm enter for free. The park is open daily from 12pm to 10pm. 3. AYA AYA at WAFI City Mall is a high-tech experience that takes visitors through 12 interactive zones. Each area, from the vibrant Flora to the drifting Falls, combines sound, lights and motion to create immersive environments. Guests can move between worlds, relax on sloped surfaces under projections, and explore water-inspired displays. Tickets are priced at AED135, with free entry for people of determination (plus a companion) and children under three. Prices may vary, so it's best to check directly before visiting. 4. The Green Planet The Green Planet is a biodome that recreates a tropical rainforest in the heart of the city. Home to more than 3,000 plants, animals and birds, it offers an educational and sensory experience across four levels: the Canopy, Midstory, Forest Floor and Flooded Rainforest. Visitors can explore the rainforest ecosystem, learn about conservation efforts, and even book special experiences like swimming with piranhas or joining the zookeeper programme. Tickets start from AED155 for day entry, with discounts for groups. 5. House of Hype House of Hype at Dubai Mall Chinatown is a digital playground combining gaming, fashion, entertainment and food. Spanning 100,000 square feet, it offers over 100 activities including 50 gaming experiences, 18 immersive worlds, and stages for content creators. Visitors can design sneakers, create augmented reality avatars, and film music videos, all instantly sent to their devices. There are also secret rooms to discover and spontaneous performances throughout the venue. General admission costs Dh149 for visitors aged four and above, while children three and under enter for free.
What's On
27-03-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
12 things to do in Dubai this Eid Al Fitr 2025
No work, just play… Eid Al Fitr 2025 is almost here, and if you're in Dubai, it's time to take a breather and dive into everything the city has to offer. Forget the usual grind and enjoy a few days of relaxation, fun, and new ways to make the most of those days off. Whether you're in the mood for a laid-back beach day, checking out a new restaurant, or watching the fireworks, Dubai's got the right vibe for whatever you're in the mood for this Eid Al Fitr 2025. Dine by the beach Spring in Dubai means one thing – alfresco season. And what better way to enjoy it than with a meal by the water? We've rounded up the best beachfront restaurants in the city, so you can dig into great food with a side of sea breeze. Book a Eid staycation If you've had your fill of iftars and firework shows, maybe it's time for a little escape. No flights, no long drives—just a quick getaway to recharge. We've picked out the top Eid staycations in the UAE for a well-earned break. If you're looking for a staycation spot, check out Banyan Tree, JA Ocean View Hotel Jumeirah Beach, Marriott Hotel Al Jaddaf, Conrad Dubai. Catch up at an Instagrammable café with your bestie Craving a fun, girly day out with your best friend? Head to one of Dubai's most gorgeous cafés for a mix of stylish décor, sweet treats, and refreshing smoothies. It's the perfect spot to chat, laugh, and snap a few pics while indulging in some cute pastries. Spend the day at a J1 Beach Club If you haven't checked out J1 Beach yet, now's the time. Grab a sun lounger, enjoy the beach vibes, food, and drinks with your entrance fee fully redeemable. With stunning beach clubs and restaurants, it's the perfect way to spend a sunny day in Dubai. If this sounds like your scene, check out La Baia (the newly opened, chic beach club inspired by the Amalfi Coast), Baoli, Gitano, and Kaimana Beach. Get hyped House of Hype is a one-of-a-kind wonderverse bringing a whole new level of entertainment and fun to Dubai. Inside, expect a short, a blend of beauty, surprises, games and a whole lot of crazy fun. The attraction is open to everyone, whether you're a creator, a fashionista, a foodie, or a gamer. Everyone can come together to enjoy the epic adventures spanning the different worlds and colourful characters. There's no limit to the excitement as you explore each corner with jaw-dropping spectacles. You will be able to purchase tickets on House of Hype, Dubai Mall – Chinatown, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, @houseofhype Visit a new foodie district Dubai truly knows how to spoil us for choice on the foodie front. We have an unending list of restaurants – which would take us 35.6 years to go through – and there are so many more on the way. One spot that needs to make its way onto your list (and into your belly) is Marsa Boulevard. At the new foodie scene, you will be spoiled for choice with options spanning homegrown brands, innovative food concepts, and local talent showcasing their creativity. Some of the restaurants you can expect include The Good Life, Comptoir 102, Chef Nouel Catis, Reif Japanese Kushiyaki, Home Bakery, SLAB, BLU, Maison Matcha, The Grove, Mara Lounge, TRIO, Haret Jdoudna, and Lost in Tokyo. Marsa Boulevard, near Dubai Festival City Mall, Dubai, open daily until mid-May, weekends 4pm to 1am, weekdays until 12am. @marsaboulevard Let the kids burn off some energy Looking for family-friendly fun? Dubai has no shortage of indoor activities to keep the little ones entertained. From trampoline parks to interactive museums, there's something to spark creativity and let them play all day. Check out the best soft play areas in the city for endless fun. Check out Olioli, Orange Wheels, and Magic Planet. Catch the Eid fireworks Eid Al Fitr is just around the corner, and with it comes the dazzling Eid fireworks display lighting up the night sky. If you're staying in Dubai, don't miss out on this spectacle – it's the perfect way to enjoy the festivities and add some sparkle to your Eid celebrations. Hit up a free beach Who says you need to pay for a great beach day? Dubai has plenty of free stretches of sand where you can chill, swim, or people-watch – no entry fee required. Grab your towel and sunscreen, and enjoy a relaxing day by the water at some of the best free beaches in the city. Try out a new restaurant at Dubai's latest hotel Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab has just opened its doors, and it's already making waves. Inside, you'll find a collection of stunning restaurants, each offering its own vibe, cuisine, and a touch of art. Whether you're in the mood for something relaxed or upscale, this is the perfect new spot to explore with friends or family during Eid. If this sounds like your vibe this Eid, dine by day, dance by night at Kira and LITT. Also, here's everything yo need to know about Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Go for an Afternoon tea Tea, cake, and the perfect way to relax this Eid– what's not to love? Whether you're here for the endless pours of tea or just in it for the pastries, from classic and laid-back vibes to creative and over-the-top indulgence, there's no shortage of the best afternoon teas in Dubai to get your tea fix. If you're a tea lover, check out Al Fayrooz Lounge, Mosaico, Atlantis The Royal, and Blüthner Hall. Book an all-Inclusive Eid Daycation at Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites There are staycations, and there are daycations. If you're looking for a little, all-inclusive break with your family for the day, a daycation at Rixos The Palm is a solid plan. Set on the serene eastern crescent of Palm Jumeirah, with breathtaking views of the Dubai Marina skyline, Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites offers the perfect retreat for Eid Al Fitr. This family-friendly daycation has an all-inclusive holiday experience for a day, without leaving Dubai. You'll start your daycation with either a buffet at Turquoise restaurant or a Turkish-inspired breakfast at A La Turca. As the day goes on, you can make your way to the pristine white beach to lounge in the sun and sip on soft and house beverages from Bodrum Bar, where there's also the main pool, featuring a swim-up bar, or head to the Rixy Kids Pool. Fitness enthusiasts can also enjoy unlimited access to the outdoor Jungle Gym. The little ones will be entertained throughout the day with creative workshops like bracelet making, Eid lantern making, and Eid card making, swimming classes, kids' yoga, mini discos, magic shows, and family bingo. Rixos The Palm Dubai Hotel & Suites, Plot 40 East Crescent – Palm Jumeirah – Dubai. Tel: (0)4 457 5555. @ rixosthepalmdubai Images: Instagram
FACT
06-02-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
The FACT UAE Weekend Guide: 9 to 11 February
While we await the impending Valentine's Day onslaught, we recommend brunches, cultural activities, and concerts this weekend. Get ready to enter House of Hype, Dubai's most electrifying entertainment destination at Chinatown Dubai Mall. A fusion of fashion, gaming, entertainment, and culinary experiences, this immersive Wonderverse offers 18 unique worlds, 50 gaming experiences, 55 content creator stages, live performances, 14 shops, and six dining spots—all designed for trendsetters, foodies, and thrill-seekers alike. Tickets from AED 149. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. The sun is shining, and the weather is sweet at Barasti Beach. The brilliant beach club is hosting Bob Marley's Birthday Festival, which takes place on the Jamaican singer's birthday and looks back at his legacy. The line-up includes reggae artists, DJs, and The Wailers. The group includes the bassist Aston 'Familyman' Barrett and the remaining members of Bob Marley and The Wailers, who will hopefully perform People Get Ready and One Love. His hit songs include Buffalo Soldier, Get Up, Stand Up, No Woman, No Cry , and Sun is Shining . GO: Visit for tickets and more information. If you're looking for a dose of culture, head to the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival. Now in its 13th edition, it runs until 28 February at Al Jazeera Al Hamra Heritage Village. The event, which explores the theme of memory, brings together 200 local and international artists. Workshops are available and cover arts, culture and crafts. The workshops include Painting Past Memories, Colouring Black and White Photographs, and Stop Motion Animation. Film screenings are also taking place indoors and outdoors. GO: Visit for more information. Shaw Lash from LILA Molina is taking over The Farmers Market at Alserkal Avenue this weekend, and she's bringing her friends. Having already collaborated with Chef AJ from Al Naqa Lao Kebab and Chef Rita from Maisan15, this weekend is the turn of Chef Milan Jurkovic from 21grams Urban Balkan Bistro. The two FACT award-winning restaurants will join forces to create a one-of-a-kind taco, cooked over a wood-fired grill and utilising as many seasonal and local ingredients as possible. GO: Visit @lilamolino on Instagram for more information. Nick Carter, one-fifth of the Backstreet Boys and a celebrated artist, is heading to Dubai this February. As part of his Who Am I tour, Carter will perform at Bla Bla Dubai's The Tent, serenading fans with his popular hits. This concert gives fans a rare chance to see Carter take the stage solo in an intimate venue. GO: Visit for reservations and more information. Helipad Dubai teams up with Factory People and Nuit de Folie for HOT MESS Sunsets—a new monthly music series blending sunset vibes with high-energy DJ sets. Kicking off the series is the electrifying DJ Saliah, known for her high-energy Boiler Room set and a fusion of electronic music with Middle Eastern influences. AED 350 (VIP deck), AED 500 per person (front row) and AED 600 (right and left DJ booth). GO: Follow @ on Instagram for more information. Veo Fitness continues its expansion across Dubai with the launch of a new branch in Arabian Ranches 2, bringing state-of-the-art facilities, expert-led classes, and a vibrant, community-focused atmosphere. Open daily, the new gym features a fully equipped training area, an outdoor workout space, a swimming pool, a dedicated post-workout recovery zone, and premium padel and tennis courts. Members can push their limits with high-energy classes like HIIT and Cycling or unwind with holistic sessions such as Yoga, Sound Healing, and Pilates. GO: Visit for more information. Known for its brilliant burgers, BEAU is transforming fast food into a luxurious experience in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The restaurant's new Chicken Nuggets Caviar Box featuring crispy chicken and Oscietra Caviar is taking social media by storm. The dish is priced at AED 320. GO: Follow @beaurestaurants on Instagram for more information. The 9th of February is not only World Pizza Day, but it's also the birthday of Michele Johnson, co-founder of the FACT award-winning Pitfire Pizza. To celebrate, Michele is sharing her favourite pizza, The Palm, by giving away a free slice with every AED 100+ delivery order. This Dubai classic features an olive oil base, air-dried beef, rosemary, sweet dates, creamy gorgonzola, and a balsamic glaze finish. Available for delivery only while stocks last. GO: Visit for more information.
