Legoland Dubai’s opening day wows visitors

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DUBAI // The sheer scale of the models at Legoland Dubai brought a wow factor to visitors on its opening day on Monday.

Hundreds of visitors who poured through the turnstiles at the opening of Dubai Parks and Resorts’ latest attraction were greeted by an oompah band, dancers and popular characters from the hit Lego movies.

Lego models recreating the Dubai cityscape seemed to impress many but, with some still being built and many of the rides yet to open, others were a little disappointed.

Countless hours have been spent putting together each of the models to recreate the Marina, Downtown, DIFC and the Burj Khalifa, which takes centre stage as – appropriately – the world’s largest Lego construction.

One ride that was open for use was the Kids Power Tower, a seated ride that gently rises, then drops back to ground level.

Katerina Kovalenko, from Russia, said it was perfect for young children including her daughter Liya, 4.

“This is our first visit to a Legoland so didn’t know what to expect,” said Ms Kovalenko, who lives in Dubai. “The buildings are amazing but the rides that are open seem more suitable for younger children.

“There are a few things that are not finished yet, but they’ve done well to open on time.”

Harold Charette, an American working in Abu Dhabi, was visiting with his two children Ruben, 10, and Nick, 19, and their mum Eileen.

“We lucked out as we bought a Lego kit and won free admission, so we had to come,” said Mr Charette.

“I’m sure it will be popular with tourists and families living here. The buildings are impressive and I love the model of Petra. The detail is amazing, you can see the fisherman pulling in their reels.”

The day, however, had some critics.

“It was an opening day so I expected everything to be perfect and open, ready to use,” said Sanjay, who lives in The Green community.

“It was a bit disappointing, particularly when you see how much work is still being done.”

Once inside, children can explore six themed lands, each offering entertainment and educational activities.

At the City zone, they can fly a plane at a mini airport, steer a boat or earn a Lego driver’s licence.

Model dragons, squires, maidens and knights are scattered throughout the Kingdom zone, although work is still being done to complete the dragon rollercoaster.

Kids can race cars and younger children can learn how to build in the Imagination zone, while the Adventure area gives young explorers a submarine adventure, and challenges them to dodge water blasts as they discover ancient ruins and the Pharaoh’s treasure.

Miniland hosts the Dubai skyline and a tour of the factory shows how the bricks are made. A nearby Lego water park, also due to open later this year, is aimed at children aged between 2 and 12.

Other parks sitting alongside Legoland include the Indian-themed Bollywood Park, feature film attraction Motiongate, and Lapita, a Polynesian-themed attraction.

Legoland, off Sheikh Zayed Road opposite the Palm Jebel Ali, is the latest brick in the path towards Dubai’s goal of becoming a global family destination.

nwebster@thenational.ae