DUBAI // Thrillseekers know Dubai for its skydiving and water parks, but a new 305-metre-long water slide is sure to grab people’s attention.
City Slide Dubai will be a two-lane chute that combines the concepts of a bouncy castle and a water slide.
Thrillseekers will shoot down on a rubber ring, as jets of soapy water are sprayed on to the slide.
To open in September pending government approval, the attraction will also be available in London, Amsterdam and the US, where one and two-day pop-up events are to be held.
The aim is to have a party atmosphere at the as-yet-unidentified site, where there will be DJs and other attractions, including water balloons, water pistols and food-and-drink stands.
Martin Atherton, from the UK, is a self-confessed water-park fan. He has been to Atlantis’ Aquaventure six times and Wild Wadi four times in the three years he has lived in Dubai.
The banker said: “Every time I have visitors I take them to one of the parks. Everyone loves them and, honestly, to me, it’s one of the best things to do in Dubai.”
He eagerly awaits the opening of the new slide.
“I haven’t heard of this before, but it sounds amazing, something different to what’s out there. I’m not sure it will be as scary as the Leap of Faith at Aquaventure, or the Jumeirah Sceirah at Wild Wadi. This seems a bit more tame, but let’s see.”
Helena Rees, a mother of two from Scotland, said it was a welcome addition for families.
“My kids will love this,” she said. “They’re 11 and 15, so they’re always looking for things to do, and this sounds perfect.
“They love water parks and this sounds like something that could entertain them for a few hours.”
There are no prices yet for Dubai, but at the upcoming event in the UK, the slide will cost Dh120 for an adult. Entry to Aquaventure for the day costs Dh250 and, for Wild Wadi it is Dh295.
mswan@thenational.ae
What to expect from City Slide Dubai: