Latest news with #IMGWorldsofAdventure
IOL News
22-05-2025
- IOL News
6 Reasons why Dubai is the ultimate winter escape for South African families
While South Africa huddles in the grip of winter and short, grey days, Dubai promises something entirely different: sunshine, adventure, and unforgettable family fun. Just an overnight flight from Johannesburg or Cape Town, Dubai is a blend of glamour and cultural experience, offering families a warm escape during the South African winter. Whether you're looking to relax on warm beaches, explore the magic of desert landscapes, or entertain the kids in world-class theme parks, Dubai ticks every box for an unforgettable winter getaway. Here are six compelling reasons to make Dubai your next family holiday destination: 1. Perfect winter weather Dubai's winter weather is nothing short of glorious, with daytime temperatures averaging a comfortable 25°C. It's the ideal time to explore the city without the intense summer heat – perfect for strolling through souks, lounging on the beach, or venturing out on a desert safari. 2. Theme parks and attractions Dubai is a dream come true for thrill-seeking families. Visit IMG Worlds of Adventure, the largest indoor theme park on the planet, or cool off at Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm. For younger children, KidZania at Dubai Mall offers an immersive mini-city where kids can role-play as pilots, chefs, or doctors. 3. Desert adventures Step away from skyscrapers and into the golden sands of the Arabian desert. A desert safari is a must – think dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding and henna painting, capped off with a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under a starlit sky. It's a unique cultural experience that the whole family will remember for years to come. 4. Underwater worlds and golden beaches Marvel at the marine life at the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, where kids can spot sharks, rays, and even penguins in one of the world's largest suspended aquariums. Afterward, head to Jumeirah Beach Residence, where soft sands, turquoise waters, and a bustling beachfront promenade await. It's a paradise for sun-seekers and sandcastle builders alike. 5. Dubai's rich cultural side Beyond the glitz, Dubai's heritage shines through. Wander the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, explore the Dubai Museum housed in a centuries-old fort, or cross Dubai Creek by traditional abra boat to shop the aromatic Spice Souk or glittering Gold Souk. These immersive experiences offer a fascinating look into the city's past and traditions. 6. Family-friendly, hassle-free travel Dubai excels in family-friendly convenience. Many hotels cater specifically to families, with large suites, kids' clubs, splash pools, and even free meals for little ones. The Dubai Pass offers discounted access to major attractions, while efficient public transport and widely available ride-hailing apps make getting around simple and safe. Are you ready to swap winter woollies for beachwear? IOL Travel
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.
Khaleej Times
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: 10 attractions that will remain open for summer in 2025
With summer fast approaching in the UAE, many outdoor attractions in Dubai are beginning to close for the season. But don't worry — the city still offers plenty of ways to have fun without braving the heat. These attractions stay open all year round, making sure you and your family aren't stuck at home this summer. 1. Ski Dubai Who says you can't enjoy snow in the middle of summer? Residents and visitors can go to Ski Dubai, which is open all year. The attraction, located inside the Mall of the Emirates, offers a winter wonderland experience even during the hottest months in the country. It's the perfect place to cool off and start planning that winter family adventure — months ahead of schedule! 2. IMG Worlds of Adventure Fulfill your childhood dreams surrounded by your favourite characters while enjoying the adrenaline thrill from a variety of rollercoasters and rides at IMG Worlds of Adventure. This indoor theme park is the best to enjoy during the summer months. The venue is open to individuals of all age groups as it hosts rides based on popular characters ranging from Ben 10, Gumball, The Powerpuff Girls and LazyTown, to the heroic world of Marvel. There is also a haunted house for those who enjoy being spooked! 3. The Green Planet Want a touch of the outdoors but with the comfort of being indoors? The Green Planet located in Dubai's City Walk is the perfect destination for those looking to explore the world of nature. The building simulates a tropical rainforest and is home to 3,000 species of exotic plants, reptiles, birds, and animals. The structure holds the world's tallest manmade and self-sustainable tree and is a greay learning experience for the little ones. 4. KidZania Looking for a fun but educational experience for the kids during the summer break? KidZania allows the little ones to enjoy the vacations while also chasing their future ambitions and learning from the experience. The indoor venue located inside Dubai Mall is open all year around, offering a covenient way to beat the summer heat. 5. AYA If you're looking to spice up your Instagram feed, AYA offers guests the perfect opportunity to do so. Situated inside Dubai's Wafi Mall, the interactive space features high-tech sound, lights and graphics with 12 distinct zones, each telling a different story. 6. Dubai Parks and Resorts The Dubai Parks and Resorts is home to some of the best theme parks in the country, which include Motiongate, Legoland and Legoland Water Park. These parks bring a good dose of adventure and fun during the hotter months, be it among structures made out of legos or thrilling water slides. 7. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo located inside Dubai Mall is not only for visitors to see from outside the glass but also underneath it. Visitors can walk through the mesmerising tunnel and witness 300 sharks and stings rays in the world's largest suspended tank. Sea-lovers are also the given the option of either walking through the tunnel and watching from a distance or getting up-close with the marine animals and diving into the tank's waters. 8. Bounce Struggling to take walks outside in the summer heat and get some cardio into your routine? Fear not for Bounce is open throughout the summer, giving customers a chance to burn those calories while staying indoors. Other than the option to jump, bounce and do summersaults on every surface, the venue offers visitors a chance to try other activities like the Slam Dunk, Dodgeball, Quick Drop, and Zip Line. 9. Wild Wadi Nestled in Dubai's Jumeirah near Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi offers visitors a chance to cool off with its crazy rides during the summer months. Family as well as groups of friends can enjoy the 30 rides built inside the park, with options for dining as well available inside the venue. 10. Dubai Hills Mall Adrenaline junkies in Dubai can have a thrilling summer with Dubai Hills Mall's attractions. The mall is home to the city's fastest indoor rollercoaster, The Storm. There is also Adventure Park by Emaar, where kids can enjoy in 11 play areas which include facilities like trampolines, rock climbing, slides and a lot more.
