Marwan Shazali (right) and Ayman Abdelrhman (second from left) with top staffers of Adventure Island in City Centre Deira on February 16, 2025. EXPAT MEDIA

Ever wondered what it’s like to break out of jail? That’s exactly what the Expat Media team did at the grand opening of Adventure Island in City Centre Deira—a new gaming and adventure hub that promises immersive, action-packed experiences for visitors of all ages. Located on the upper level of Food Central, Adventure Island introduces Prison Island, an escape-room-style challenge where players must break out of 24 different jail cells, solving puzzles and using their wits and agility to escape before time runs out. “When we entered, the wardens took our mugshots before leading us to jail,” said an Expat Media reporter. “We had no idea what to expect, but within minutes, we were searching for hidden exits, crawling through tunnels, and deciphering cryptic messages written on the walls.” Each jail cell presented a different challenge, requiring teams to think fast, work together, and sometimes get physical. Adventure Island is the brainchild of Marwan Shazali, CEO of Adventure Island Group, and Ayman Abdelrhman, Managing Partner at Adventure Island Holding Company. “Here at Adventure Island, we have award-winning gaming concepts from Tepfactor and Prison Island that we love so much,” Shazali told Expat Media. “There are eight different adventure concepts for anyone from ages 3 to 80,” Abdelrhman added. One of the most intense experiences was Laser Island, where players strapped on laser vests and blasters before entering a high-tech battle arena. “I lost count of how many times I got ‘shot’—but I had a lot of fun,” an Expat Media editor said. Adventure Island isn’t just about adrenaline rushes. There’s also Little Island, a dedicated soft play area for kids, as well as an Adventurer’s Café, where visitors can recharge with snacks and drinks. With its diverse range of attractions, Adventure Island is shaping up to be a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and families alike.

Guide to Adventure Island’s 8 special zones

Prison Island (2 hours, up to 6 players) Dubai’s second Prison Island outside of Europe challenges teams to escape from interactive jail cells by solving puzzles and using teamwork. Laser Island (15 minutes per battle, up to 24 players) An action-packed laser tag arena where players must outmaneuver opponents and take down enemy bases with laser blasters. Pixel Games (15 minutes per game, up to 6 players per team) A high-energy LED floor game, where players must step on the right tiles while avoiding the fiery reds to score points. Beamz (Up to 20 minutes per session, up to 6 players per team) A laser maze challenge where players must avoid breaking beams while tapping glowing buttons in a timed mission. Think Tom Cruise. Canopy Trail (Up to 30 minutes, up to 16 people) An aerial rope course that tests agility, balance, and strength, perfect for adventurers aged 6 and up. Tangle Drop (1 person per session) A spiraling drop slide followed by a vertical net climb—a loop of action that’s as thrilling as it is exhausting. Little Island (For kids, and kids at heart) A soft play area filled with climbing structures, ball pits, trampolines, and interactive zones. Adventurer’s Café A cozy café where visitors can refuel with snacks and drinks after their adventures. With Adventure Island now open, thrill-seekers can dive into a world of puzzles, laser battles, and action-packed challenges at City Centre Deira. PIA/MFD/MJS/Expat Media
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