As an up-and-coming tourist hub, the UAE has spent billions of dollars bringing visitors and locals a range of unique theme parks that redefine the concept of rollercoasters and attractions. For all those thrill-seekers out there, here are our top tips for amusement parks you must visit in the Emirates.
For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Ferrari World is a must-visit attraction. The Ferrari-themed park is home to the fastest rollercoaster in the world, the Formula Rossa, which accelerates to 240 kilometres an hour (149 miles an hour) in just five seconds. The park is also full of other exciting attractions such as a racing simulator, go-karts and Ferrari car exhibitions. Be sure to learn how to assemble a Ferrari race car from the experts themselves.
Yas Waterworld is a perfect attraction to visit during the UAE’s scorching summers, as it offers visitors the ideal place to cool down while having a blast. With more than 40 rides and attractions, this waterpark also has the longest suspended rollercoaster in the Middle East, the Bandit Bomber, and the Liwa Loop, a ride where the floor swallows you up. The theme park has an Emirati theme, as adventurers can follow Dana as she searches for a lost pearl.
IMG Worlds of Adventure is the largest indoor theme park in the world. It also hosts Dubai’s fastest and tallest rollercoaster, known as the Velociraptor, which can reach speeds of 97 kilometres an hour (60 miles an hour) in three seconds. There are also rides themed around Cartoon Network and Marvel, including a unique Iron Man simulator that also allows you create a custom figurine with your face behind Iron Man’s mask as a memento.
Wild Wadi Water Park celebrated its 20th anniversary this year, having opened in February 1998. With over 17 rides, Wild Wadi is a Dubai hotspot, popular with children and families. It also offers two artificial surfing machines, three pools and an 18-metre (60-foot) waterfall, among many other attractions. The theme park takes you on an Arabian adventure based on the old folktale of Juha and his friend Sinbad. Located on the golden stretch of the Dubai coast, Wild Wadi offers spectacular views of the Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel.
Dubai Parks and Resorts consists of four incredible parks: Legoland Dubai, Legoland Water Park, Motiongate Dubai and Bollywood Parks Dubai. These theme parks promise an unforgettable adventure for all ages, with rides and attractions for adults and families alike. Enjoy attractions themed around your favourite animated films such as Shrek and How to Train Your Dragon at Motiongate Dubai and splash around at the Lego-themed Legoland Water Park. With over 100 rides and attractions, you are truly spoiled for choice.
Abu Dhabi’s latest addition, which has cost an estimated $1 billion to build, will bring your favourite childhood memories to life. Located completely indoors, the amusement park features rides themed around beloved characters from Looney Tunes and the DC comics, among many others. With six designated themed areas (Gotham City, Metropolis, Cartoon Junction, Bedrock, Dynamite Gulch and Warner Bros Plaza), Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi is a perfect day out for family and friends.
