A Guide to the Best Theme Parks in the UAE

09/11/2021Holly Keates

Calling all adrenaline-junkies, we’ve got a guide to the best theme parks in the UAE. From the fastest roller coaster in the world to crazy waterparks, it’s time to get your fill of the thrill.

Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi
The Fastest Roller Coaster in the World

Thoughts of the UAE often turn to city skylines, pristine coastlines, and impressive architecture. There are so many incredible places to visit in the UAE, from the Burj Khalifa to the desert landscapes.

Luxury resorts can be found around almost every corner, and there’s never a lack of beautiful restaurants to visit.

But that’s not all the UAE has to offer. In fact, there’s a whole variety of attractions that aren’t your typical day out. If you want to add a bit of adventure and thrill to your trip, then you’re in the right place.

The same high-quality architecture that you will find in the cities, can also be found at the many theme parks in the UAE. With billions of dollars spent creating fun-filled attractions for visitors from across the world, it’s an unforgettable experience.

So, why don’t we find out what the best theme parks in the UAE are?

Yas Waterworld
Yas Waterworld. Picture by: Jeremy Thompson

5 of the Best Theme Parks in the UAE

  • Ferrari World
  • IMG Worlds of Adventure
  • Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi
  • Yas Waterworld
  • Legoland Dubai

Ferrari World

If you’re a lover of speed, cars, and theme parks, well have we got something for you. Ferrari World located in Abu Dhabi is the world’s first Ferrari-themed theme park!

Experience the world’s fastest roller coaster, incredible loop-the-loops and magical 4D experiences. Whether you visit the park as a family, or are spending time with your friend, there really is something for everyone to enjoy.

An Aerial Shot of the Incredible Ferrari World
An Aerial Shot of the Incredible Ferrari World

With 43 rides and attractions, your day can be spent with plenty of action and adventure. The most popular ride is the Formula Rossa. It goes from 0 to 149 mph in 4.9 seconds with heights of 52 metres. If you can manage to peel yourself from the seat after going that fast, you may even queue up for a second go!

For little ones wanting to join in on the thrills, there are plenty of options. From the Formula Rossa Junior, which is a smaller version of the main attraction, to the Turbo Tower.

There’s even the opportunity to walk on the theme park’s roof. This 90-minute experience takes you onto the top of the signature red roof. There you can get up close with the largest Ferrari logo in the world.



IMG Worlds of Adventure

Setting another record is the world’s largest indoor theme park, IMG Worlds of Adventure, located in Dubai. With six exciting zones, a plethora of restaurants and rides for the whole family, it’s a must-visit!

Despite the areas being based around Cartoon Network, Marvel and Lost Valley, that doesn’t mean adults aren’t welcome. In fact, there are plenty of roller coasters and attractions to keep you busy.

IMG Worlds of Adventure. Picture by: Jeremy Thompson
IMG Worlds of Adventure. Picture by: Jeremy Thompson

Spider-Man Doc Ock’s Revenge is a fast-paced spinning roller coaster based in the Marvel zone that’s sure to get your heart racing. Another adrenaline fuelled ride is The Velociraptor, located in the Lost Valley. With loops and speeds of 60 mph, it’s one for the thrill-seekers.

Of course, there are also a variety of child-friendly rides for the little ones too. Visit the Land of Ooo and join Jake and Finn on their journey across the different kingdoms. Or fight Mojo Jojo with the Powerpuff Girls on Mojo Jojo’s Robot Rampage!

There are several fine dining experiences at the theme park too. From the Ben 10 themed, Mr. Smoothy, American style diner, to the Cartoon Network, CN Feast, where they serve up delicious international-style cuisine.


Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi

Presenting another indoors theme park is the Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. Which is also the world’s first ever Warner Brother’s branded indoor theme park! Have you figured out by now that the UAE likes to be original with their ideas?

Similar to IMG Worlds of Adventure, the park is split into different lands. You can meet some family favourite characters from the classics like Bugs Bunny and Scooby-Doo. To the iconic superheroes like Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman.

Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. Picture by: Ankur Panchbudhe
Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. Picture by: Ankur Panchbudhe

The characters fit within the different lands, for example the Flintstones in Bedrock and Batman in Gotham City. Explore the lands with your family and find incredible, fun-filled attractions.

Take on the The Joker Funhouse for some physical and mental challenges as you walk through this interactive funhouse in Gotham City. Or, if you prefer to add a bit of chaos to your day, check out the Tom and Jerry: Swiss Cheese Spin. With twists, turns and plenty of mayhem from the iconic duo it’s a barrel of laughs.


Yas Waterworld

With rides, slides and all the fun bits in between, Yas Waterworld in Abu Dhabi is the perfect combination of a water park mixed with roller coasters. The 40 rides and slides spread across 37 acres means your day of water adventures will be a fantastically fun one.

Once again setting world records, check out the Dawwama slide. The world’s largest six-person tornado water coaster! Grab your friends and family and plunge down this high intensity water slide, from the heights of a mountaintop.

Or kick back and relax on the Al Raha River, a 300m lazy river. You’ll be taken down the winding streams and through different caverns. It’s the perfect ride to just have a rest before you head on over to experience more thrills.

If you’re looking for rides for the kids, don’t worry, Yas Waterworld has plenty for the little water adventurers. From the Tot’s Playground where toddlers can enjoy their first experience of a waterpark with paddling pools and small slides. To the Marah Fortress where children can play all day with awesome slides, water cannons, and dumping buckets.

https://www.flickr.com/photos/sackerman519
Yas Waterworld. Picture by: Studio Sarah Lou

Legoland Dubai

Legoland Dubai is definitely one for the kids. Combining the theme park Legoland Dubai, with the Legoland Water Park it’s a creative experience perfect for those aged between 2-12.

There are around 60 Lego based rides and experiences where children (and adults!) can play and build. At the Build & Test attraction, you can design and build your own Lego car. Get the whole family involved and see who can build the best race car.

Or if you visit the waterpark, check out the Build-A-Raft River where you can build your own Lego raft to drift around the lazy river.

If you are looking for some rides, there’s a variety of thrills for the little people in your life. Including the Beetle Bounce, where you are catapulted nearly 15 feet into the air. Or how about the Lego Technic Twister, where you spin the wheel and your Lego teacup will spin faster and faster!


Ready for your fill of the thrill?

Theme parks and water parks are always a fantastic day out, and with plenty of choices in the UAE you’re bound to find one that fits your adrenaline needs.

Whether it’s a fast-paced roller coaster, or a relaxing lazy river, the UAE have got something for everyone.

If you are considering a trip to the UAE, why not check out our 15 fascinating things you didn’t know about the UAE blog to find out more about this incredible country.

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