Latest news with #AYAUniverse
Time Out Dubai
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Up for an interstellar adventure right here in Dubai? Head to Aya Universe
Ready to drift through a glowing galaxy, get lost in a cosmic rainforest, or wade into a giant ball pit? The Insta-famous AYA Universe at Wafi City is offering UAE residents a pretty sweet deal right now, and if you've been meaning to go, this is your sign to book your ticket. The multisensory experience is famous for its trippy visuals and out-of-this-world installations. You'll see infinity mirror rooms, glittering gardens, reverse waterfalls, and space-inspired projections so good they'll have you questioning reality. And yes, there's a massive immersive ball pit to dive into, for which you're never too old. And the best part is, this summer, UAE residents can snag entry for just Dhs99. Once you're in, you can spend as long as you like inside the sprawling 40,000-square-foot space, though most visits last around two hours. You'll explore 12 immersive zones, each designed to feel like a chapter from a dreamy interstellar adventure. Float through Drift, summon colourful waves in Tides, play with holographic creatures in Outland, or spark new life across the galaxy in The Source. And if you're in the mood to get a little poetic under the stars, there's Harmonia – a room that feels like dancing through light and sound in another dimension. All you need to do is book the UAE Residents Offer online and flash your physical Emirates ID or UAE Pass at the front desk when you arrive. This special rate is valid until Sunday September 14 2025. So, whether you're going with mates, taking the kids, or just fancy a solo trip into the cosmic unknown, now's your chance to do it for less. Just don't forget your curiosity (and your ID). Dhs135 (general admission). Dhs99 (discounted rate for UAE residents). Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Wafi City, Oud Metha. (04 542 0300).
What's On
01-07-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Big value family packages to book this summer - What's On
Looking to keep the whole fam entertained without blowing the budget? Whether you're planning a play packed day indoors or trying to escape the heat, these top value family bundles around Dubai have you covered. Wavehouse Strike it lucky with this fun filled offer at Atlantis' iconic entertainment hub. The Wavehouse family bundle includes a game of bowling, 2 adult meals, 2 kids meals, and 4 soft drinks, all set in a colourful, high-energy venue that the kids (and grown-ups) will love. Location: Wavehouse, Atlantis The Palm Time: Mon to Sun 12pm to 11pm Cost: Dhs495 for 4 available Monday to Thursday Contact: 04 426 2626 @wavehousedubai AYA Universe Take the family on an intergalactic adventure at AYA, WAFI City's mesmerising multimedia playground. With 12 different zones of fully immersive, Instagrammable fun, this family pass gives you entry for four into a vibrant digital world where reality bends and creativity takes flight. Location: AYA Universe, WAFI City Mall Time: Sun to Thurs 10am to 10pm, Fri & Sat 10am to 12am Cost: Dhs399 for 4, one day advance booking required Contact: 04 542 0300 @ayauniverse Ski Dubai Snow much fun! Beat the summer heat with a full day of icy adventures at Ski Dubai. The Summer Family Pass includes unlimited Snow Park rides, chairlift access, and one premium activity – choose from penguin encounters, ziplining, ski lessons or slope access. Bring a jacket and your sense of adventure. Location: Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates Time: Mon to Thurs 10am to 11pm, Fri 10am to 12am, Sat & Sun 9am to 12am Cost: Dhs1,300 for 4, ages 2+, advance booking recommended Contact: 04 409 4000 @skidxb Looking for fun indoor things to do this summer? Check out these 63 cool ideas to beat the heat. Images: Instagram > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
Time Out Dubai
30-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Things to do in Dubai to feel like a big kid
Being an adult can be fun, sure. But… Do you ever just get the urge to be a big kid again? Wouldn't it be nice to go back to those days when everything was that little bit more fun and care-free? Back to the times of jumping into ball pits, racing down slides or heading to your best mate's house to play video games. If you like reading this: 31 fully redeemable pool days in Dubai for the ultimate day in the sun Well, luckily you can have that slice of childhood whenever you like in Dubai. There are some incredible activities on offer for grown-ups that are made specifically to make you feel like a (big) kid again. Even better, you're an adult now, no need to ask your parents' permission! Ready to embrace your inner kid? Let's go… Activate Canadian active gaming experience Activate is now open at City Centre Mirdif with plenty of ways to get one over your pals. The space features nine dynamic game rooms which fuse gaming, entertainment and physical activity in a state-of-the-art facility. With bright neon lights and easy-to-follow games, it's like being thrust into a retro games console (but irl). From Dhs95. Open Mon-Fri 10am-10pm; Sat-Sun 10am-midnight. City Centre Mirdif Mall. (600 599905). Active Games UAE If this was one of your favourites as a kid, then you need to step inside the game and experience real-life Pac-Man. Now at Active Games, the 45-minute maze will even get your heart rate up as you dodge hungry ghosts, collect power pellets and chase a high score. Opening Wed May 7. From Dhs160. Mon-Wed 1pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-midnight. Al Quoz, Adventure Island (Credit: Supplied) This is guaranteed to give you a throwback to your mates' birthday party 20 years ago. The attraction now has branches in JBR and Deira, offering you and the little ones hours of fun. Start off by getting into one of the Pixel rooms that are covered with sensors, and get your steps in jumping around. If you're still not tired out, try a game or two of laser tag. Chase each other around the course as you duck and dive to avoid being hit by your opponents. Prices vary. Jumeirah Beach Residence and City Centre Deira, (058 833 9204). AYA Universe Wanna jump in a giant ball pit and stare up at the stars? The interactive experiences at the Wafi City attraction are all about getting involved with galaxies far, far away, and immersing yourself in the art. There are 12 rooms to see – after the ball pit be sure to check out the water feature and go dancing in the rain. From Dhs135. Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm; Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Wafi City, Oud Metha. (04 542 0300). Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark (Credit: Supplied) Who doesn't love a water slide? There is no place better to be a big kid than Aquaventure at Atlantis, The Palm, where you can spend the entire day whizzing through tunnels and splashing around on the lazy river. The park has 28 record-breaking waterslides, and we give you full permission to try them all. From Dhs310 (adult), Dhs270 (child). Open daily 10am-6.30pm. Atlantis, The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, (04 426 2000). Boom Battle Bar (Credit: Boom Battle Bar) There's plenty of games to choose from here, but we recommend you start with a round of crazy golf. If you're still feeling competitive, try your hand at shuffleboard, and why not make the loser give everyone a quick rendition of something in one of the karaoke booths. An all-rounder when it comes to having fun like a kid. Over 21s only. Open Sun-Thu 4pm-1am; Fri-Sat 4pm-2am. DoubleTree by Hilton, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina, (04 585 7357). BOUNCE Reach some new heights and bounce as high as you can go at one of Dubai's Bounce parks. Visit the original venue in Al Quoz, or if you fancy trying out a bit of parkour, book a session at the Dubai Festival City branch instead, where you'll spot the free terrain park and infinity wall. Grown-ups are more than welcome, and maybe it's about time you tried practicing that front flip again. From Dhs90 (locations vary), (04 304 9333). Bullzeye This attraction is new on the scene, and you're definitely going to want to try it out. At Dubai's first foam dart arena, get a few friends together and spend a couple of hours firing your nerf guns as you run around dodging the darts. You can even try a bit of combat archery too, which will probably remind you of school dodgeball. From Dhs75 (30 mins). Open Mon-Thu 11am-9pm; Fri-Sun 10am-9pm. Al Barsha Shopping Complex, Al Quoz, (04 288 1644). Chaos Karts (Credit: Supplied) This will take you right back to the days of gripping your controller as you whizzed around Rainbow Road on Mario Kart. The go-karting experience makes you feel as if you've stepped into the game itself as you try and take out your opponents. Think you've got it in you to bag first place? Let's see. From Dhs112. Open Mon-Thu 1pm-11pm; Fri-Sat 11am-midnight; Sun 11am-11pm. 6A St – Al Quoz, (04 324 2344). Loco Bear When it comes to indoor entertainment, pretty much everything you can think of is under this roof. Climbing walls? Yup. Trampolining? Of course. Roll glider? You know it. VR headsets? What do you think. Taking you back to the days where running around and gaming were the only things on the to-do list, you're guaranteed hours of fun in here. Free entry (game prices vary). Open Mon-Fri 11am-11pm; Sat-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Quoz 2. (800 56262). Roll DXB The 50 best indoor activities to try in Dubai (Credit: RollDXB) Remember the day your parents first strapped on some knee and elbow pads and wheeled you off on your roller-skates? If you think you've got the balance for it, throw on a pair of light-up skates at RollDXB and take a whizz around the rink before snapping a cool Instagram next to the neon signs. If you're really a beginner, there are newbie classes every Saturday morning, so you can practice before showing off to your friends. From Dhs65. Open Mon-Wed 11am-11pm; Fri 11am-midnight; Sat-Sun 10am-11pm. Marina Cubes St, Dubai Maritime City, Port Rashid, (04 238 6206). Looking for things to do in Dubai? 10 creative ways to enjoy Dubai summer indoors (yes, including yoga under the sea) Our AC-approved places to play 50 cool things to do in Dubai for less than Dhs50 Record-breaking attractions, cheap drinks and bargain days out 8 blingy things to do in Dubai if you want to show off We get it, you've got some showing off to do
Time Out Dubai
15-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
13 top-tier Dubai attractions remaining open for summer 2025
Summer 2025 is just around the corner, and ultimately, it comes hand in hand with scorching temperatures, Global Village going on hiatus and discovering the most efficient temperature to keep your AC. You might also like: 4 top outdoor Dubai attractions you need to visit before they close in the summer The balmy season also has a few perks (read: reduced traffic, deals and night swims galore) and, surprisingly, plenty of Dubai's top attractions are still open to enjoy. From must-visit museums to futuristic experiences primed for your Insta feed, here are the best summer attractions that will stay open even when it's hot. Dubai attractions open for summer 2025 AYA Universe (Credit: Supplied) The interactive exhibition is a tour through 12 different zones, all of which invite you to open your eyes to the cosmos. The only one of its kind in Dubai, you can enjoy each room as you experience the wonders of the universe . Think giant galaxy ball pit, running through the rain, and a spot to lie down and look up at the stars. You might have only gone to Wafi City, but you'll feel in a whole other world at AYA. Dhs135. Sun-Thurs 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. AYA, Wafi City, Oud Metha, (04 542 0300). Dubai Aquarium (Credit: Supplied) Dive under the sea at the aquarium in Dubai Mall, where you can check out over 140 different species of sea creatures, big and small. If you're not afraid of a dorsal fin, why not jump in the tank and take a shark dive alongside a professional guide. If you would rather stay dry, take a stroll through the underwater tunnel, or take the little ones for an otter or penguin encounter instead. From Dhs169. Mon-Fri 10am-10:15pm, Sat-Sun 10am-11:15pm. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 3822 6255). Dubai Frame It isn't just a stand-out structure that captures the city in a colossal-sized frame, visitors can actually go inside and up to the bridge of Dubai Frame over at Zabeel Park. And, the views of 'old' and 'new' Dubai from a 150-metre-high sky glass bridge look superb whether you're there for the day, sunset or at night. The bridge has a completely see-through bottom to it – walk across it and be labelled one of the bravest of the bunch at one of the best attractions in Dubai. From Dhs50 (adult), Dhs20 (child). Open daily 9am-9pm. Zabeel Park, (800900). Dubai Parks and Resorts (Credit: Supplied) Made up of three theme parks and a water park, Dubai Parks and Resorts is a one-stop shop for family fun if you've got little thrill-seekers in your brood. If you live in the UAE, you can get yourself an annual pass for either all the parks, or you can choose which two you will most likely be visiting more often that the others. It will really save you a lot of money in the long term, plus gives you exclusive benefits such as discount on food and drinks and information about seasonal events ahead of the general public. Starting from Dhs165. Open daily 4pm-midnight. Dubai Parks and Resorts, Dubai, Etihad Museum Etihad Museum takes visitors on a unique journey through decades of remarkable progress. The striking culture spot, which is shaped like a manuscript, includes permanent and temporary halls, a theatre, an educational area, interactive maps and videos, and more. It's a must-see if you're looking to immerse yourself in the past. Dhs25 (adult), Dhs10 (child). Open daily 10am-8pm. Jumeirah 1, Dubai, (04 515 5771). House of Hype After opening in February at Dubai Mall, House of Hype is here to give you a cool Insta-op. This gigantic experience has over 100 different things to do, and you'll feel like you've walked through video games, taken a stroll through Japan and stumbled into a dream at the same time. As it's inside and air conditioned, it's the perfect place to spend an hour or four on a hot summer's day. Dhs149. Level One, Open daily 10am-midnight (last entry 11pm) Chinatown, Dubai Mall. (971 4 268 3611) IMG Worlds of Adventure (Credit: Supplied) The largest indoor theme park in Dubai has six different zones, so prepare to spend the entire day here. Marvel-lovers can meet their favourite heroes in person, as well as be flung around on the Hulk Epsilon rollercoaster as many times as they please. Featuring attractions for the whole family, other zones include the Cartoon Network, a Haunted Hotel and the IMG Kids Zone. General admission from Dhs365. Sun-Thurs noon-10pm, Fri-Sat noon-11pm. City of Arabia, (04 403 8888). KidZania Credit: Supplied Catering to kids between the ages of four and 16, this edutainment (education meets entertainment – get it?) centre in The Dubai Mall is basically a replica of a mini-city complete with paved streets and even a functioning economy. KidZania offers a safe environment where little ones can use their imagination to explore 'work' as a pilot, dentist, doctor, fireman, or even a journalist. Dhs195 (kids standard), Dhs260 (kids premium), Dhs90 (adults), Dhs120 (kids aged 2-3) kids under 2 go free. Level 2, Dubai Mall. Sun-Thurs 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-11pm. (800 38224 6255) Madame Tussauds (Credit: Supplied) Best for: Your best mate who's destined for the red carpet. It's time to get up close to some of your favourite celebs and snap a selfie with the stars – well, close enough. Take a tour through the world-famous waxwork museum, with both local faces and international superstars posing inside. Visitors heading down during the summer months will even be treated to an appearance from Chris Hemsworth (the wax version) – what more convincing do you need? From Dhs115. Sun-Thurs noon-8pm, Fri-Sat 11am-9pm, Bluewaters Island, (04 873 3042). Museum of the Future It's being called the most beautiful building on Earth, and we say for good reason. The architectural and engineering marvel opened up early in 2022 and it takes visitors on a journey into the future. The building combines advanced technology with traditional art-forms, and the museum has spectacular experiences for all ages. A must-visit for sure. From Dhs159. Open daily 9.30am-9pm. Sheikh Zayed Road, (800 2071). Ski Dubai Sure, there are sand dunes to be seen, but you can't come to Dubai without checking out its phenomenal must-see indoor ski slope, which now not only provides great runs for skiers and boarders, but is also home to a colony of penguins and a snow park for all kinds of winter-themed fun. From Dhs230. Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri,10am-midnight, Sat-Sun 9am-midnight. Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, (800386). The Green Planet Credit: The Green Planet Dubai Yes, it's exactly what it says on the tin. The Green Planet is Dubai's indoor rainforest (as you do). Inviting guests on a wild adventure, walk through the different floors of the rainforest as you make your way up to the canopy. Home to thousands of cute and creepy creatures from bats and monkeys to birds and even piranhas, it's a great place to make some forest friends and learn about their habitat. From Dhs129. Open daily 10am-6pm. City Walk, Al Wasl, (800 7699). The View at the Palm Catch stunning 360-degree views 240 meters above the world-famous Palm Jumeirah. From level 52 of the iconic Palm Tower, the viewing deck sees you spying Dubai's iconic landmarks around the city and discovering hidden gems. Look around your favourite city with an eye you've never used before. From Dhs110. Open daily 9am-8pm (last entry 7.30pm). The View, Palm Jumeirah, (800 8438439). Looking for things to do in Dubai? 112 best things to do in Dubai in 2025 Everything to tick off your Dubai bucket list 50 free things to do in Dubai Feeling the pinch? Enter free things to do Here's how to eat at 10 expensive Dubai restaurants for less Early bird dinners, lunch specials and more
Campaign ME
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Campaign ME
The future of live events in the Middle East: immersive experiences, sustainability & AI
The Middle East's live entertainment and event marketing industry is experiencing a transformation driven by emerging technologies, sustainability initiatives, and AI-powered personalisation. The market is projected to reach $76.67B by 2028, with immersive experiences, hybrid events, and eco-friendly innovations at the forefront. As consumer expectations evolve, event organisers have to adapt to provide engaging, sustainable, and highly personalised experiences. Hybrid experiences driving audience engagement The post-pandemic landscape in the live entertainment industry has been marked by a dramatic decline in virtual events: by mid-2023, 60 per cent of events were held in person, compared to just 30 per cent in 2021. The shift has been driven by increasing tiredness from fully digital events, 'Zoom fatigue', and the lack of meaningful, authentic connection in online-based entertainment. As a result, audiences are seeking the energy and unique experiences of live events – according to recent polls, 72 per cent of respondents prefer traditional physical events over online ones. While the number of fully virtual events has naturally decreased, growing demand for deeper engagement boosts the evolution of immersive events and venues. One of the most striking examples of this trend is the Sphere, a giant immersive entertainment venue soon coming to Abu Dhabi. Featuring immersive LED displays and next-generation audiovisual technology, this Sphere is expected to be monumental in scale with a capacity of 20,000. Another milestone event was Eric Prydz's HOLO show in Dubai, which brought his iconic 3D holographic performance to Expo City Dubai in October 2024 as the closing performance of GITEX Global 2024, marking HOLO's Middle East debut. Alongside a growing number of hybrid events in the region, more and more immersive entertainment parks and attractions are opening their doors in the GCC region. AYA Universe, an award-winning entertainment park in Dubai, boasts 12 rooms that combine art and technology, transcending the boundaries between dream and reality. Sustainability initiatives as an essential tool As global events such as GITEX Global and the Huawei Tech Carnival in the Middle East gain momentum, the number of international participants grows proportionally. With it comes not only opportunities for growth and collaboration but also concerns about the environmental impact of large-scale gatherings as emissions from air travel and logistics continue to rise. Embracing digital innovation is key to reducing the environmental impact of large-scale events, from streamlining logistics to minimising waste. One example is mobile-first ticketing—platforms like Platinumlist replace paper tickets with SafeTickets, cutting paper use while enhancing security. As the industry shifts toward sustainability, technology plays a crucial role in eco-conscious event management. Several major events paved the way for sustainable event management. COP28 Dubai was the first UN climate summit to be powered entirely by clean energy, featuring carbon-offset programs, digital-only ticketing, and a strict zero-plastic policy. The 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar also introduced innovative sustainability measures – the Stadium 974 was constructed entirely from recyclable shipping containers and dismantled after the tournament. Sustainability has become a core factor in event management for audiences and sponsors alike, reshaping the entire economy of event management. As eco-conscious sponsors prioritise partnerships with green events, sustainability now plays into core business decisions. AI-driven personalisation transforming attendee experience The Middle East is at the forefront of AI usage in event marketing. Conferences like LEAP 2024 in Saudi Arabia focus on the role of generative AI in industries ranging from healthcare to finance, while the Future IT Summit 2025 in Dubai is expected to highlight AI-driven event planning and networking tools. At the same time, Web Summit 2025, exploring AI's impact on data ethics, governance, and regulation, is scheduled to take place in Qatar this coming February. AI is reducing the carbon footprint of large-scale events and revolutionising event marketing by enhancing personalisation and audience engagement. AI algorithms curate tailored experiences, ensuring attendees can engage in relevant and meaningful interactions. The future of live events in the middle east The Middle East's live events industry is rapidly growing, with the market projected to reach $76.67B by 2028. As the region cements its position as a global hub for entertainment innovation, emerging technologies, sustainability initiatives, and AI-driven personalisation reshape how events are designed and experienced. The next era of live events will likely see Extended Reality (XR) and the Metaverse play a larger role, blending physical and digital elements to create fully immersive 'phygital' experiences. At the same time, sustainability remains a priority, with eco-conscious venues and carbon-neutral initiatives setting new industry standards. As the live entertainment landscape evolves, success will depend on leveraging technology for deeper engagement, enhancing audience experiences, and prioritising sustainable practices. Organisers, sponsors, and attendees drive a new era of interactive, responsible, and future-focused events. By Cosmin Ivan, CEO at Platinumlist
