Holy haberdashery, Batman! As the caped crusader says, if you can’t spend it, money’s just a pile of worthless paper, isn’t it? Malls and tourist boards across the UAE have stacked up a range of ways to spend this summer.
From thrilling theme parks to inspiring reading events, there are attractions lined up to pull families away from their phones until Eid Al Adha. The man-bat and his poncho-toting pals topping the bill, of course, with next week’s opening of the world’s largest Warner Bros. indoor theme park on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, but activities have been laid on across the nation.
“We have made sure to include an abundance of family festivals and events that visitors of all ages can enjoy,” says Gerardo Llanes, Executive Director — Destination Management at Yas Island. The holiday hotspot recently launched a calendar packed with more than 40 new ideas and old favourites for the rest of the year.
Meanwhile, in Dubai, the travel and tourism sector is able to increasingly offer a great visitor experience, says Issam Kazim, CEO, Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM). “The summer season supports the city’s priority agenda to always offer something new — especially with the annual summer festival, Dubai Summer Surprises,” he tells GN Focus.
“With Dubai now attracting an even more diverse audience, our summer flagship events are designed to encourage repeat visitation while creating authentic advocates for the city through its residents, who encourage their friends and families to visit over the summer months.”
We’ve collated a list of top events for different personality types.
For movie mavens
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi beckons. Set to open on July 25, the 1.65-million-sq-ft park is divided into six different theme zones, including DC’s Metropolis and Gotham City, Bedrock and Cartoon Junction. Or to put it another way, Batman, Wonder Woman and Superman, Tom and Jerry, Scooby-Doo and The Flintstones are all set to become new residents of the UAE, with their own particular theme rides and immersive experiences. Wbworld.com
For budding stars
Is daddy’s little princess headed for stardom? Find out for yourself at Dubai Parks and Resorts, which is running a summer camp in collaboration with Gems Education for kids aged five to 14. At Bollywood Parks, budding stars can play actor and director, go behind the scenes at Rajmahal Theatre, enjoy the full song-and-dance experience or simply catch a movie.
At Motiongate next door, they can channel their pizza or kung fu skills, or enjoy a day of bricktastic Lego-themed fun at Legoland Dubai. A week’s pass costs Dh950, inclusive of free transport to several UAE schools. Dubaiparksandresorts.com
Towering ambition
In signature Dubai style, two classic lures have been teamed together in a never-before interactive experience. Modhesh, the city’s summer mascot, is partying at the Burj Khalifa until August 25, and you’re invited to his pad up on level 112. Packages inclusive of At the Top, Burj Khalifa and the Modhesh experience are available at the Burj Khalifa website for Dh150, and there’s a special package for Dubai Metro users at Dh74. Burjkhalifa.ae
For dance demons
Tomorrowland could be many things, but club thumpers will know it as the electronic dance music festival held in the aptly named Belgian town of Boom. On the bill this year are acts such as Armin van Buuren, Afrojack and Dimitri Vegas and Like Mike, but there’s no need to head over to Tintin country to join the action. That’s because the event, Unite with Tomorrowland, is coming to Abu Dhabi over the last two weekends of this month. Tomorrowland.com
For nature lovers
With more than 4,000 animals and birds, Al Ain Zoo has long been one of the UAE’s finest family attractions. Zoo entry is included in Abu Dhabi’s first-ever Summer Pass. For Dh230 and up, the prepaid pass, jointly created by Rayna Tours and the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism, offers access to up to 16 attractions and experiences. Raynatours.com
Staycation junkies
Ras Al Khaimah has long been the summer getaway destination of choice for UAE residents for one reason alone: the cooler temperatures of the Hajjar mountains. Add the world’s longest zip line, which has become easier to get to thanks to the launch of a new shuttle service from Dubai Airport, and you’re on your way to another bucket list experience right here in the UAE. Rasalkhaimah.ae
For shopaholics
In a country where retail really is a form of therapy, malls and brands everywhere are offering all kinds of special deals. For jewellery brand Joyalukkas, its yearly summer promotion is a big crowd-pleaser.
“The annual promotion has garnered a loyal following around the world, with many shoppers timing their major purchases for this period,” says Joy Alukkas, Chairman and MD of Joyalukkas Group, adding, “Shoppers get one raffle coupon on purchase of gold jewellery and two raffle coupons for diamond jewellery worth Dh500 and above to join the Shimmering Summer draw for a chance to win up to 500 gold bars.
"Adding to this exciting opportunity are generous offers, including zero per cent deduction on gold exchange as well as low making charges.” Joyalukkas.com
For rain lovers
Part installation, part experience and all thrilling, a permanent new Rain Room allows visitors to walk through a rainstorm without getting wet — thanks to motion sensors. It’s a highlight of Sharjah’s first-ever Summer Festival, which features major entertainment, recreational and cultural activities. Shjsummer.ae
