Why Motiongate Dubai is a Must-Visit for Theme Park Fans

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Motiongate Dubai, located within Dubai Parks and Resorts, is a great theme park for thrill-seekers and movie buffs! Spread among its 4 studio zones, you will find 40 amazing attractions. This amusement park in Dubai is an exciting cinematic adventure brought to life. It’s where your favourite movies, from Shrek and Madagascar to Kung Fu Panda and Ghostbusters, transform from the silver screen into exhilarating rides and attractions that leave you on the edge of your seat.

In this article, I will guide you through this Dubai theme park and will tell you more about the Motiongate Dubai ticket prices, best rides, main zones and much more. Moreover, you will learn about other things to do at Dubai Parks & Resorts and other best Dubai amusement parks to spend the time of your life. Are you curious? Then buckle up and get ready for a fascinating journey!

Is Motiongate Dubai visit worth it: pros and cons

Check my quick overview of the pros and cons below to make a balanced decision.

Pros:

• Unique attractions: Motiongate Dubai at Dubai Parks and Resorts offers a range of original and unique attractions that cannot be found elsewhere in the city. From immersive movie-themed experiences to thrilling rides, visitors can enjoy one-of-a-kind entertainment.
• Brand collaborations: This Dubai theme park has collaborated with major Hollywood studios to bring beloved movie franchises to life. It provides visitors with the opportunity to experience their favourite films in a whole new way.
• Variety of entertainment: With multiple zones dedicated to different movie genres, Motiongate in Dubai offers a diverse range of entertainment options. Visitors can explore different themed areas and enjoy a variety of shows, attractions and dining experiences.

Cons:

• Rides closure: Some rides can be periodically closed for maintenance, which may cause disappointment if you visit the park for a specific attraction. You can check the ride enhancement schedule on the park’s official website.
• Potential for crowds: Being a popular theme park, Motiongate Dubai can experience high levels of attendance, especially during peak seasons, weekends and school group visits. This may lead to longer wait times for attractions and a busier park environment. To avoid crowds, I recommend coming during the workdays.

Book your Motiongate Dubai ticket here

What is Motiongate Dubai theme park

Opened in 2016, Motiongate Dubai is an amusement park just outside of Dubai that features four studio zones with 40 exciting rides and two more event zones. It is a part of the larger Dubai Parks and Resorts conglomerate, known as the region’s largest integrated theme park resort. Besides Motiongate, Dubai Parks & Resorts includes Legoland Dubai, Legoland Waterpark, Neon Galaxy and the upcoming Real Madrid football-themed park.

The Hollywood-inspired Motiongate is a collaboration among three of the largest and most successful motion picture studios in Hollywood: DreamWorks Animation, Columbia Pictures and Lionsgate. The park unfolds into captivating zones filled with heart-stopping rides, fascinating shows, memorable movie-themed dining and shopping experiences. If you are looking for the best amusement park in Dubai, you should definitely consider Motiongate. Check all Motiongate Dubai rides below.

Is Motiongate Dubai indoors or open-air

Motiongate theme park in Dubai boasts a unique combination of both indoor and open-air attractions. While the DreamWorks section is fully enclosed and air-conditioned, offering respite from the Middle Eastern heat, other zones like Columbia Pictures, Lionsgate and Smurfs Village have outdoor attractions. This blend ensures that visitors can enjoy the park year-round, despite the fluctuating weather conditions.

What age is Motiongate Dubai for

Motiongate Dubai is designed to cater to all age groups. Children under 3 years old can enter for free. However, some Motiongate rides in Dubai may have height restrictions for participants. You can check those restrictions per attraction below in this article.

From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters for thrill-seekers to interactive play zones for little ones, there’s something for everyone. Not to mention, movie enthusiasts of all ages will appreciate the immersive world of their favourite films, from the colourful Smurfs Village for the youngest fans to the dystopian world of The Hunger Games for the older ones.

Theme park zones

Motiongate theme park in Dubai comprises four movie zones and two event zones. They include:

• DreamWorks
• Columbia Pictures
• Lionsgate
• Smurfs Village
• Hollywood Theatre
• Studio Central

Each one is designed to transport you into a world of cinematic wonder. Let’s venture into each one, shall we? And if you are looking for the best Motiongate rides in Dubai, check out my lists below.

DreamWorks

Stepping into the DreamWorks Motiongate zone feels like being dropped straight into your favourite animated movies. DreamWorks zone, entirely housed indoors, is divided into four unique movie-themed sections: Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda and How to Train Your Dragon. Each section features thrilling rides, live shows, as well as character meet and greets.

From the jungles of Madagascar to the quaint town of Berk from How to Train Your Dragon, this zone is a dream come true for fans. The immersive 4D Shrek ride and the adrenaline-pumping Kung Fu Panda: Unstoppable Awesomeness are must-try experiences.

List of DreamWorks Motiongate rides and attractions

• Madagascar Mad Pursuit (height restrictions: 125 to 196 cm)
• Dragon Gliders (height restrictions: 100 to 196 cm)
• Kung Fu Panda Academy (height restrictions: no)
• Swamp Celebration (height restrictions: 105 cm and above)
• Melnan – Go – Round (height restrictions: 90 cm and above)
• Mr. Ping’s Noodle Fling (height restrictions: 90 cm and above)
• Penguin Air (height restrictions: 90 cm and above)
• Kung Fu Panda: Unstoppable Awesomeness (height restrictions: 105 cm and above)
• The Swinging Viking (height restrictions: 105 cm and above)
• Shrek Meet & Greet (height restrictions: no)
• Po Meet & Greet (height restrictions: no)
• Toothless, Hiccup and Astrid Meet & Greet (height restrictions: no)
• Madagascar Meet & Greet (height restrictions: no)
• Shrek’s Merry Fairy Tale Journey (height restrictions: 90 cm and above)
• King Julien Sideshow Stomp (height restrictions: no)
• Camp Viking (height restrictions: no)

Columbia Pictures

Next on our tour is the Columbia Pictures Motiongate zone. This is where you can join the Ghostbusters in their fight against supernatural entities, outrun zombies in the Zombieland Blast-Off ride or take on the Green Goblin with Spider-Man.

The zone’s standout attraction — the world’s first interactive water ride Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs: River Expedition — is a guaranteed splashing good time! Furthermore, don’t miss the chance to meet and greet your favourite characters from the Hotel Transylvania crew.

List of Columbia Pictures Motiongate rides and attractions

• Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs: River Expedition (height restrictions: 105 cm and above)
• Zombieland Blast-Off (height restrictions: 130 cm and above)
• The Green Hornet: High Speed Chase (height restrictions: 105 cm and above)
• Ghostbusters: Battle for New York (height restrictions: 90 cm and above)
• Hotel Transylvania (height restrictions: 90 cm and above)
• Hotel Transylvania Meet & Greet (height restrictions: no)
• Underworld 4D (height restrictions: no)
• Flint’s Imagination Lab (height restrictions: no)

Lionsgate

If you’re a fan of The Hunger Games series or Step Up movies, then the Lionsgate Motiongate zone is for you. Here you can experience the thrilling Capitol Bullet Train roller coaster. Moreover, this zone features a Now You See Me themed roller coaster, a heart-stopping ride that’s sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

List of Lionsgate Motiongate rides and attractions

• Now You See Me: High Roller (height restrictions: 125 to 195 cm)
• Capitol Bullet Train (height restrictions: 135 to 195 cm)
• Panem Aerial Tour (height restrictions: 100 cm and above)
• Effie Meet & Greet (height restrictions: no)
• John Wick: Open Contract: (height restrictions: 125 to 195 cm)

Smurfs Village

For the little ones, and those who are young at heart, the Smurfs Village Motiongate zone is a delightful escape. Meet Papa Smurf, Smurfette and their friends in this enchanting Smurf village.

The picturesque village is home to several family-friendly rides and attractions, including SmurfBerry Factory and Smurf Village Express. Don’t forget to take a leisurely stroll through the enchanting mushroom-capped houses!

List of Smurfs Village Motiongate rides and attractions

• SmurfBerry Factory (height restrictions: no)
• Smurf Village Express (height restrictions: 100 cm and above)
• Smurfs Studio Tours (height restrictions: 90 cm and above)
• The Smurfs Meet & Greet (height restrictions: no)
• Woodland Play Park (height restrictions: no)

Hollywood Theatre

Finally, the Hollywood Theatre zone is where you can experience live action at its best. The venue hosts the spectacular “Illuminate” show, a state-of-the-art experience that combines breathtaking visual effects and physical theatre to bring the story to life. It’s an unforgettable show, perfect for keeping the entire family entertained.

The Hollywood Theatre regularly showcases some of the most mesmerising live performances. They include dance performances, live stunts and acrobatic displays, all promising a memorable cinematic experience.

Studio Central

This is where the magic of Hollywood is brought to life. Studio Central, the Motiongate park’s entrance plaza, is designed to mimic a classic Hollywood movie set. From vintage cars to iconic movie paraphernalia, it’s a nostalgic tribute to the golden era of cinema. The zone also hosts numerous live performances throughout the day, adding to the lively and vibrant atmosphere.

Motiongate Dubai tickets

To experience this extraordinary world of cinematic adventures, you’ll need Motiongate Dubai tickets. You can purchase these online or at the park’s entrance. Remember, it’s always better to book in advance to avoid long queues and secure good deals.

• Motiongate Dubai ticket price: AED 295 and above, children under 3 enter for free

Book your Motiongate Dubai tickets here

• Deal Alert: Klook regularly provides Motiongate Dubai tickets and offers with big discounts. I love booking on Klook for their competitive prices and the loyalty program that allows to save even more. Check out Motiongate prices here

Restaurants inside

Between the thrilling rides and attractions, you can refuel at one of the many Motiongate themed restaurants and cafes spread throughout the park. From Dragon Flame Grill in the DreamWorks zone to the Very Smurfy Café in Smurfs Village, the dining options are as diverse as the rides themselves.

Here is the list of Motiongate dining options:

• Dragon Flame Grill (Dreamworks, Middle Eastern cuisine)
• Mr. Ping’s Noodle Shop (Dreamworks, Chinese cuisine)
• King Julien’s Side Show Cafe (Dreamworks, Middle Eastern cuisine)
• Slimer’s Diner (Columbia Pictures, American cuisine)
• Baby Brent’s Luncheonette (Columbia Pictures, Italian cuisine)
• Very Smurfy Cafe (Smurfs Village, Middle Eastern cuisine)
• Supporting Rolls Bakery (Studio Central, bakery)

Timings

• Motiongate Dubai opening hours: Sunday to Thursday 11:00 to 20:00, Friday and Saturday 11:00 to 21:00 (all attractions close 30 min prior to this time)

Location

Where is Motiongate Dubai located?

• Motiongate Dubai address: Dubai Parks & Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Road (opposite Palm Jebel Ali), Dubai, United Arab Emirates

How to get to Motiongate Dubai

The park is not located centrally, but there are several options for getting to Motiongate theme park in Dubai. It’s situated on Sheikh Zayed Road, opposite Palm Jebel Ali. You can reach the park by car, taxi or public transportation from all major areas in Dubai. Check the details below.

• By metro: Take the Dubai Metro (red line) to the Ibn Battuta metro station, then either catch a taxi or take the RTA shuttle bus (plan your route here)
• By car: From both Dubai and Abu Dhabi follow the E11 highway and take Dubai Parks and Resorts Exit 5
• By taxi: RTA, Careem, Uber and other ride-hailing services are available throughout the city

Other parks and things to do at Dubai Parks and Resorts

Apart from Motiongate, Dubai Parks and Resorts also houses Legoland Dubai, Legoland Waterpark, Neon Galaxy and the new Real Madrid football-themed park which has replaced Bollywood Parks Dubai. Each offers a unique set of attractions, making your visit to Dubai Parks and Resorts a multi-day adventure.

• Legoland Dubai: Let your imagination run wild at this interactive park, where you can build, create and explore with LEGO bricks, as well as enjoy 40 exciting rides and attractions. Legoland Dubai is a great destination for families with children aged 2 to 12. Book your Legoland Dubai tickets here
• Legoland Waterpark Dubai: Legoland Waterpark in Dubai is a fantastic destination for families with young children aged 2 to 12 seeking a fun-filled day of entertainment and water adventures. Located within Dubai Parks and Resorts, this waterpark with 20 waterslides offers a unique Lego-themed experience that will delight both children and adults alike. Book your Legoland Dubai Waterpark tickets here
• Neon Galaxy: Designed for young kids and teenagers, this indoor playground features ball pits, rope climbing, slides and much more. Visiting the Space Jungle, Solar Storm and Slide Central zones, among others, your kids are guaranteed a day of fun and excitement.
• Bollywood Parks Dubai: Until 2023, this park was the place to experience the magic of Bollywood with live shows, immersive attractions and vibrant entertainment celebrating the glamour of Indian cinema. Unfortunately, this park is no longer operational.
• Real Madrid World: The first ever Real Madrid theme park where sports fans and families can immerse in the world of one of the greatest football clubs on the planet.

What are the best amusement and theme parks in Dubai other than Motiongate

• Aquaventure Waterpark: Dive into a world of excitement at Aquaventure Waterpark, officially the largest waterpark in the world by a number of water slides. Enjoy thrilling rides, relax on the pristine beach with a lovely view and even get up close and personal with aquatic animals. Book your Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark tickets here
• Wild Wadi Waterpark: Immerse yourself in Arabian folklore at Wild Wadi Waterpark. Zoom down adrenaline-pumping rides, the tallest and fastest free-fall water slide in the Middle East, and soak up the fun in this Arabian-themed water park. Book your Wild Wadi tickets here
• Ski Dubai: Experience winter wonderland in the desert at Ski Dubai located in the Mall of the Emirates. Hit the slopes, try your hand at skiing or snowboarding and even encounters with funny penguins in this unique indoor ski resort. Book your Ski Dubai tickets here
• IMG Worlds of Adventure: Step into a world of adventure at IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world’s largest indoor theme park. Explore different zones featuring your favourite Marvel and Cartoon Network characters, and get ready for an action-packed day of fun. Book your IMG Worlds of Adventure tickets here
• Dubai Global Village: Explore a melting pot of cultures at Dubai Global Village. This vibrant entertainment and shopping destination showcases dozens of pavilions representing over 80 countries. This is a unique opportunity to experience various cultures, cuisines and traditions for a low price. Global Village in Dubai is open seasonally from October to April. Book your Dubai Global Village tickets here

Prepare for your Dubai trip

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