At Adventure Island in City Centre Deira, Dubai. ARCHIVE

Ready to level up your fun in the UAE? From candy dreams to football screams—Dubai’s got new thrills for everyone! Expat Media got the first look at some of the newest and most exciting attractions across Dubai—and we’re here to spill the (candy-coated) tea on everything from whimsical museums to high-octane thrill rides. Here's what we recommend!

Adventure Island

Yes, we actually broke out of jail here! At Adventure Island, the Expat Media team joined the opening of Prison Island, a one-of-a-kind escape experience with 24 themed cells. Before entering, they took our mugshots (yup, full warden mode), and then it was game on—crawling through tunnels, solving puzzles, and finding secret exits. If breaking out isn’t your vibe, there’s still loads to enjoy: Laser Island puts you in the middle of a futuristic shoot-out, and Little Island is perfect for younger kids. There’s even a cozy Adventurer’s Café for post-escape snacks. Where: City Centre Deira Timings: 10am to 10pm daily Tickets: From Dh59

Museum of Candy

Expat Media tried it—and yes, it’s as Instagrammable as it is indulgent. Nestled in a surprising location on Umm Hurair Road (think: quiet office blocks and furniture stores), this hidden gem bursts into life the moment you walk past the discreet entrance. We were handed candy canes and colorful "passports" before stepping into a sugar wonderland of eight interactive zones. Expect lollipop gardens, cotton candy clouds, and a sprinkle pool (don’t dive in, it’s art!). It’s not massive, but it’s a candycore dream for creative photo ops and cheeky treats. We scored extra lollipops and cotton candy thanks to some very generous staffers. If you’ve got a sweet tooth and a camera roll to fill, this is your playground. Where: Umm Hurair Road, 32 2nd Street Timings: 10am to 10pm (Monday to Thursday), 10am to 12am (Friday to Sunday) Tickets: From Dh119

Real Madrid World

Calling all madridistas and adrenaline addicts—Real Madrid World is the world’s first football-themed park, and it’s packed with over 40 attractions that scream "goal"! There are three main zones to explore: Champions Avenue, Celebration Plaza, and Stars Avenue. Our faves? The Hala Madrid wooden roller coaster (a first in the region), the 460-foot Stars Flyer (hold onto your stomach), and the family-friendly Wave - La Ola ride. You can also dive into VR games and memorabilia that celebrate the football club’s legendary journey. Where: Dubai Parks & Resorts Timings: 12pm-9pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 12pm-10pm (Friday and Saturday) Tickets: From Dh295

GLITCH Dubai

Think of Glitch Dubai as the indoor playground of your dreams—whether you’re five or fifty. With more than 30 interactive games, this place is a multigenerational fun fest. Expat Media ran the ninja-style obstacle course, tackled a giant 10-meter-high slide, and even tried SkySurf, the UAE’s first roller glider that lets you "float" around the venue. There’s bowling for the chill crowd, climbing walls for the brave, and soft play zones for the littlest adventurers. Where: Al Ghurair Centre, Dubai Timings: 10am to 11pm (Monday to Thursday), 10am to 12am (weekends) Tickets: From Dh25 ICA/Expat Media
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