Tourism & Hospitality | Tuesday 20 January, 2015 5:05 pm |

Zabeel Park welcomed more than 90,000 visitors in the first 10 days of the 20th anniversary edition of Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), recording an influx of 15,067 visitors on 1 January, 23,011 visitors on 2 January, 16,097 visitors on 3 January and 21,189 visitors on 4 January.

Spanning 52 hectares, including a vast green area, Zabeel Park is considered to be one of the most unique projects of Dubai Municipality that was developed in 2005 in the heart of Dubai in a location easily accessible from various parts of the city.

Eng. Mohammed Abdul Rahman Al Awadi, Director Public Parks and Horticulture said that the high turnout of visitors to Zabeel Park, since the first day of DSF, proved the outdoor venue’s popularity among both families , residents and visitors to Dubai.

As part of the 20th anniversary celebrations of DSF, Zabeel Park is hosting the “Etisalat Festive Park”, which offers numerous fun-filled activities for families and children throughout the length of DSF. The initiative is a new concept organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) in collaboration with Etisalat – DFRE’s Strategic Partner for 2015.

On the first day of DSF, the park organised WNO Orchestra – a spectacular performance featuring 55 artists and legendary musicians from around the world. From 4 – 10 January, the amazing attraction ‘Masters of the House’ delighted visitors from far and wide.

On the agenda of the park for the remaining weeks of DSF are exciting activities, events and attractions for park-goers of all ages. Those looking to discover fresh and organic foods can head to the Ripe Food and Craft Market every Firday and children can be part of ‘The Circus Comes to the Town’, ‘The Knockout Games’ and the ‘Extreme Show’ during the ongoing DSF celebrations at the park.

As a family-friendly destination, Zabeel Park encourages residents and visitors to adopt a healthy lifestyle and enjoy the park’s al fresco surroundings, especially during the ongoing pleasant-weather months.

The park is divided into two sections, with two pedestrian bridges connecting the two areas. It features wide open spaces, adventure playground, play areas, lake offering boat rides, ice rink and ice skating, children’s party and activity rooms, sculpture of giant chess drawing, a large amphitheatre, shaded areas for barbecues and picnics, cafes and pleasing flora.

The park also has a jogging track around its perimeter and offers Wi-Fi connectivity throughout. A 3D cinema and educational and entertaining interactive shows in its communication zone, techno zone and alternative energy zone, an exhibition gallery, activity area including mini golf, skateboard park, BMX track, a mini cricket pitch are other features of the popular park.

Given its proximity to high density residential areas, the park is abuzz with activity during the weekends. The entry fee to the park is AED 5 per person and the car parking lot offers designated spaces for 2300 cars.