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Modhesh is the mascot of the Dubai Summer Surprises Image Credit: Supplied

The 17th edition of Modhesh World, the largest indoor seasonal edutainment theme park in the region, opened today. Held at the Dubai World Trade Centre until August 27, under the theme, Every Step Is a New Adventure, it promises amazing family fun during its 62-day run through an exciting line-up of world-class events, activities and experiences.

Kids stepping into Modhesh World, the home of their favourite friend, the cuddly mascot Modhesh, will instantly feel welcome, excited and energised at the wide array of games, contests, rides, shows, adventure-oriented activities, and much more that will keep them engaged in useful activities and entertained all summer long.

Ahead of the opening, the bubbly summer icon, answered media questions. Excerpts from the interview:

Modhesh, how do you plan to celebrate the summer in Dubai this year? 

There is only one way I am going to do that and that is to be at my home in Modhesh World welcoming my kiddie friends all summer long! The 17th edition of Modhesh World opens its doors on Monday, June 27, and am inviting families and children, fans and friends to make the most of this summer at my home during a 62-day-long fiesta of family fun.  

How has Modhesh World evolved over the years?

My home was built by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai’s Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (Dubai Tourism). Starting from humble beginnings, Modhesh World this year is bigger than ever, with its summer calendar under the theme ‘Every Step Is A New Adventure’ being spread over an area of 34,000 sq m, covering eight halls of the Dubai World Trade Centre. 

What are the new rides and games at Modhesh Word this year?

The big idea behind Modhesh World has always been about inspiring young minds through fun and entertainment. Brand new additions for 2016 include the epic Action Planet, which will include two 50m Zip lines, climbing walls and free falls, and an all new Dinosaur Park, where kids can come face to face with pre-historic dinosaurs and experience a thrill ride with them. By popular demand, we have also brought back a bigger and better Ice Rink, covering an area of 400 Square meters. Moreover, this year we also added an all-new Haunted House, which is all set to raise goose bumps and heart rates to a whole new level.

Do you have any special attractions or entertainments acts this year?

This year, visitors can look forward to a fantastic line-up of world-class stage shows and entertainment acts including The Magical Garden, Modhesh Universe Adventures, and Under the Sea. My beautiful home will also host additional shows such as the Trampoline Show, the B-Boys Show, the Diablo Show and mime acts, to name a few.

What’s so special this year?  

Children visiting my home have always found it to be a safe, secure and friendly place to be in during the summer. This year, the focus is on reaching out to a whole new age group of kids with a special new zone called “oddler Town. This is a fun and interactive zone specifically dedicated to younger children and babies, where features include; sensory classes “Baby Talk” designed to help toddlers learn through play, music, and multi-sensory activities.

Tell us what you will be serving to hungry visitors.

This year Modhesh World will feature a diverse selection of food and beverage options with several seating areas, including signature food trucks and trolleys available at various locations throughout the attraction. Among those who will be serving mouth-watering options at Modhesh World are Kono Pizza, Fruteiro, Toasted, Saj 2 Go, Bikes ‘N Bites,  Big Chefs, MilkShakes, On The Moo!, Pots, Pans & Boards.

How can visitors gain entry to Modhesh World?

They have to buy tickets to come in. Starting prices for tickets to Modhesh World are Dh20. Entry is free for kids under age 3. However, this being the Holy month of Ramadan, anyone can visit me without buying tickets during this period.

What are the visiting hours?

Doors will be open from 10am to midnight on weekdays and 10am to 1am during the weekends (Thursday and Friday).