The DreamWorks Animation Zone is part of the Hollywood-inspired theme park, Motiongate Dubai located in Dubai Parks and Resorts, the region’s largest integrated theme park destination. The family-friendly zone houses a total of 12 rides, four live experiences, four themed restaurants and five retail stores, serving as a one-stop-shop for all entertainment requirements.
Motiongate Dubai features state-of-the-art programmable ride systems, 360-degree rotating ride vehicles, built-in audio and massive multimedia projections.
The DreamWorks Animation Zone is an indoor-world of hysterical characters and heartwarming stories with four themed lands inspired by the blockbuster animated hits “Kung Fu Panda,” “How to Train Your Dragon,” “Madagascar” and “Shrek.” Re-creating each film in their own uniquely themed “lands,” guests are welcomed by a majestic and multi-sensory fountain with sculptures of all the DreamWorks characters coming to life.
“Shrek Land:” Guests can enjoy a brand-new Shrek adventure where captivating story-telling and a good dose of Donkey’s cheekiness await. Visitors can experience “Shrek’s Merry Fairy Tale Journey,” which tells the tale of Shrek and Fiona’s love story. Another family-friendly ride is “Swamp Celebration” where guests can rock and glide inside a hallowed out tree trunk.
“How to Train Your Dragon Land:” Guests will be able to begin their journey on the Swinging Viking ship set on a thrilling rogue adventure. Set among the Isles of Berk, the flagship ride “Dragon Gliders,” a regional first, incorporates the best in new generation ride technology to bring a multi-sensory, action-packed adventure to visitors.
“Madagascar Land:” There is plenty of excitement at Madagascar land. “Mad Pursuit” is the fastest rollercoaster that will take guests on a mad chase through the circus while kids can maneuver their own aircraft gliders at “Penguin Air. Melman Go-Round” is a whimsical and colorful carousel.
“Kung Fu Panda Land:” Guests can climb aboard a rollicking crazy adventure on a 4D simulator with the “Unstoppable Awesomeness Ride. Mr. Ping’s Noodle Fling” is a whirling, twirling tea cup ride where the rider is in charge of how fast they would like to go. Kids and families can learn the art of kung fu from “Master Po” himself in an interactive show at “Kung Fu Academy.”
Beat the heat at DreamWorks Animation Zone in Motiongate Dubai
Beat the heat at DreamWorks Animation Zone in Motiongate Dubai
Dubai Shopping Festival’s sporting events turn city into hub for outdoor action
The Dubai Shopping Festival is raising the bar this winter with a high-impact sporting calendar that runs throughout December and January, transforming the city into a hub for elite competition, community fitness and outdoor action.
From professional basketball to baseball games, polo tournaments, half marathons, and horse racing, the festival brings together athletes, families and spectators for a dynamic winter season of sport. The diverse lineup of events strengthens DSF’s role in supporting Dubai’s active lifestyle, showcasing world-class sporting venues and encouraging community engagement during the city’s peak outdoor season.
Key sporting events taking place during DSF:
Dubai Racing Carnival
- Race days: Jan. 2, Jan. 9 and ongoing dates until March 13.
- Location: Meydan Racecourse
The flagship winter racing season features international horses and top jockeys.
More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnivaland https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-racing-carnival-festive-friday
Silver Cup
- Date: Jan. 10-Jan.24
- Location: Al-Habtoor Polo Resort and Club
Silver Cup, part of Dubai’s prestigious polo calendar, sees six of the world’s best teams go head-to-head in a 20-goal handicap.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/silver-cup
Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge — Build-Up Ride 4
- Date: Jan. 4
- Location: Al-Qudra Cycle Track
The last of the Spinneys Dubai 92 Cycle Challenge Build-Up Rides is designed to help cyclists build their stamina ahead of the ultimate challenge.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/spinneys-dubai-92-cycle-challenge-build-up-ride-4
Hood to Coast Dubai 2026
- Date: Jan. 10
- Location: Al-Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
Hood to Coast Dubai challenges teams to conquer a series of relay segments through expansive desert trails, with each runner taking on their leg before passing the baton.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/hood-to-coast
Skechers Performance Run — Race 4 (16k/10k/5k/3k)
- Date: Jan. 10
- Location: Meydan
Enjoy a fun day out for the whole family at this popular community race offering various distances, where participants can run along the traffic-free roads of Meydan.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/skechers-performance-run
Marina Home Dubai Creek Striders Half Marathon 2026
- Date: Jan. 11
- Location: Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
One of the largest races of its kind in the UAE and the Middle East, this half marathon will mark its 23rd edition in 2026.
- More information: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/festivals-and-events/dubai-events-calendar/dubai-creek-striders-half-marathon
A citywide sporting season
With events spanning elite international fixtures, community runs, polo tournaments, multi-distance races, trail challenges and recurring racing nights at Meydan, DSF strengthens Dubai’s winter season for sport, well-being and outdoor experiences.
