Have you visited these attractions in Dubai?

As a Pakistani with an interest in traveling, thinking of a trip abroad is always a task and a half. From visas to airline and hotel bookings, as well as the extensive documentation that one has to have at hand, the fun usually gets spoiled at the very inception of the plan. There is one place, though, that stands out as a destination of choice for ease of traveling as well as the diversity of activities and attractions, and which is not very far away – Dubai. Especially when the weather is fairly better as it is these days.

Being a hotpot of people from the most diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds, a place where you can experience the true essence of modern amenities, shopping, and cuisines, Dubai has much more to offer than meets the eye. Apart from what is globally known as must-haves in the city like going to the dunes on 4x4s, skydiving, deep diving, etc., there are places that can truly add to the experience.

If you’re looking for your next travel destination, let Dubai captivate your imagination and thrill your senses. Here’s a tour through some of the city’s most exciting attractions that promise an unforgettable experience.

Brass Monkey 

Perched on the vibrant Bluewaters Island, Brass Monkey boasts an electrifying atmosphere and extensive entertainment options that you could easily mistake for an amalgamation of scenes from multiple movie sets. Restricted to those 21 and above, this two-story facility features a 12-lane bowling alley, state-of-the-art VR racing simulators, and an array of over 60 arcade games. 

Whether you’re a pro at bowling set to impress with your strikes or want to relive childhood joys with retro games like Pac-Man, Brass Monkey delivers fun and competition that will have you hooked for the evening.

Atlantis Aquaventure 

This gem in Dubai, is not just a waterpark—it’s an adventure of epic proportions that could easily keep you and your family in for a whole day without realizing how your time passed. Aquaventure is home to record-breaking waterslides that cater to thrill-seekers of all ages and features some of the world’s most daring rides, including the Aquaconda, the largest waterslide in the world, and my personal favorite, the Leap of Faith, a near-vertical drop that shoots riders through a tube surrounded by sharks and rays. These rides divide between the aptly named Tower of Poseidon and Tower of Neptune. 

If you are a group of friends or a family, the Zoomerango and Poseidon’s Revenge offer multi-person rides that make for perfect family fun. The Lost Chambers Aquarium at the park offers a stunning journey designed around the theme of the Lost City of Atlantis and showcases some of the most exotic marine species in the world. Visitors can wander through underwater tunnels and witness sharks, rays, piranhas, and thousands of colorful fish. 

And when you’re done for the day with the intense options, grab a tube and head to the river rides that offer a more relaxed ride with wave surges, while Splashers, a water playground, is designed especially for young children, featuring smaller slides and water cannons in a safe and fun environment.

The Dubai Frame 

The Dubai Frame is more than just an architectural feat; it’s a cultural and historical narrative presented in a modern frame. It is a marvel of modern architecture that measures 150 meters in height and 93 meters in width, making it look like a gigantic picture frame. Designed by award-winning architect Fernando Donis, it is positioned in such a way that represents a metaphorical bridge connecting the city’s rich past with its enterprising present and ambitious future. 

From one side, viewers can see the older parts of the city, and from the other, the skyline populated with skyscrapers, showcasing a literal and metaphorical ‘frame’ of Dubai. Visitors begin their journey by entering through the ground floor of the Frame, where they encounter a museum and a stunning gallery that ends at an elevator which takes visitors directly to the ‘Sky Deck’. 

The Sky Deck has a trippy walkable glass floor through which the visitors can peer at the park 150 meters below their feet. The deck offers 360-degree views of the city; the north side shows older, more traditional Dubai, while the south provides a breathtaking panorama of the city’s modern skyline, including sights like the Burj Khalifa. 

Another elevator at the opposite end of the deck transports visitors down to The Future Dubai Gallery, projecting an immersive experience of Dubai’s anticipated future. The gallery uses special effects, projections, and aromas to create an imaginative journey through what the next 50 years might hold for the city. 

Whether you are an architecture enthusiast, a history buff, or just a tourist interested in visiting unique vantage points, this is the place to visit.

The Dubai Kartdrome

Ask any petrolhead to break down fun to its core and they will show you their attraction towards karting as the barebone version of motorsport that never fails to thrill. And when it comes to karting, Dubai has a complete drome allocated to it in the heart of its Motor City. Designed for speed enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, the facility is part of the larger Dubai Autodrome complex and provides an adrenaline-loaded racing experience for individuals and groups alike. 

The Kartdrome features a 1.2-kilometer outdoor circuit, incorporating 17 corners, a tunnel, and a bridge that tests the skills of even the most experienced drivers. There is a complete fleet of high-performance karts that cater to various age groups and skill levels. 

Since the experience involves petrol, speed, and adrenaline, safety is paramount at the Dubai Kartdrome. All participants are provided with safety briefings, helmets, and racing suits. Experienced professionals are available to provide tips on racing techniques and ensure that all safety protocols are followed.

The facility’s design prioritizes inclusivity and family-friendliness, furthering Dubai’s commitment to providing a wide range of recreational activities that cater to every interest and passion.

Motiongate Dubai 

This place stands out as a premier destination for family entertainment, offering a dynamic blend of thrilling rides and authentic cinematic experiences that bring the magic of Hollywood to life. 

Located in Dubai Parks and Resorts, Motiongate features attractions based on studios such as DreamWorks Animation, Columbia Pictures, and Lionsgate, making it a must-visit for movie enthusiasts and families alike. 

From Columbia Pictures, the attractions include those inspired by hits like Ghostbusters, The Green Hornet, and Underworld. You’ll experience high-speed roller coasters, interactive dark rides, and family-friendly attractions that bring these iconic films to life. The Green Hornet rollercoaster was my favorite here. 

Exiting Columbia pictures, you’ll find yourself immersed in the fantasy world of DreamWorks where you can wander through thematic zones based on Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, Shrek, and How to Train Your Dragon. Each area is crafted to replicate the unique settings of these beloved films, complete with indoor rides that protect visitors from the desert heat. 

Following that, you and your loved ones can experience the intensity of “The Hunger Games” through state-of-the-art attractions and a replica of the Capitol at Lionsgate. Also, immerse yourself in the dance-centric universe of “Step Up,” featuring high-energy performances and dance workshops. 

Who can forget the Smurfs Village that is ideal for younger visitors with its whimsical area themed around the charming Smurfs? The village includes playful rides, interactive play areas, and opportunities to meet and greet the Smurfs in their mushroom-capped houses. 

Throughout Motiongate Dubai, themed restaurants offer a range of dining options that reflect the cinematic influence of the park. From casual cafes to fine dining, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Additionally, numerous gift shops scattered across the park sell exclusive merchandise that features characters and elements from the movies represented within the park. 

The best way to know that you’ve made it is when you see the gleaming faces of your kids at Motiongate with the widest of smiles!

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