DreamWorks Animation to join Dubai theme park

Motiongate Dubai will have four zones and 27 attractions. It is expected to open in 2016.

An illustration of the planned park to feature characters from DreamWorks Animation. Courtesy Dubai Parks and Resorts

Dubai Parks and Resorts has announced plans to develop a DreamWorks Animation character zone within Motiongate Dubai, a Hollywood-inspired theme park.

It will feature rides and entertainment as well as themed dining and retail outlets.

Motiongate Dubai will encompass 372,000 square metres and is anticipated to attract three million visitors a year. The park will have four zones and 27 attractions.

“We are extremely proud of our alliance with DreamWorks Animation,” said Raed Al Nuaimi, chief executive of Dubai Parks and Resorts. “Working with the studio has been a rewarding experience with its creativity serving as an inspiration for the overall planning of Dubai Parks and Resorts. The zone at Motiongate Dubai will offer incredible up-close and personal interactions for guests with DreamWorks Animation’s strong character portfolio that holds timeless appeal.

“The themed zone will also add an exhilarating dimension to Dubai’s tourism offerings and give one more reason for visitors around the world to include Dubai as a must-visit holiday destination.”

Yoshi Maruyama, head of location-based entertainment for DreamWorks Animation, said: “We are thrilled to bring our popular characters and stories through immersive experiences to families in the Middle East.”

Phase 1 of Dubai Parks and Resorts will comprise three theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai and LEGOLAND Dubai. The development, between Jebel Ali and Abu Dhabi, is scheduled for completion in 2016 and will also feature Riverpark, a grand entrance plaza and Lapita, a family themed hotel.

The project is designed to draw 5m visitors in its first year of operations, serving the regions within a four-hour flying distance from Dubai.

Dubai Parks and Resorts aims to generate thousands of jobs and economic benefits, and position the UAE as a catalyst for the expansion of the global entertainment industry.