DUBAI // Sixteen different rides and five zones based on movies such as Lagaan, Don and Sholay will be part of a Bollywood theme park being built in Jebel Ali.
The first phase of Bollywood Parks Dubai is expected to be finished by 2016.
The developer, Dubai Parks and Resorts, said it will work with major film studios in Mumbai to capture the essence of Hindi films.
A Bollywood Boulevard at the entrance of the park will have live entertainment with dance performances and street theatre, while there will be retail outlets and themed restaurants inside.
“The cultural effect and appeal of Bollywood is universal,” said Raed Al Nuaimi, chief executive of Dubai Parks and Resorts.
“For the first time ever, a theme park in the region will recreate for residents and tourists the unparalleled glamour and extravagance of Bollywood on one stage. Here guests can live, learn and immerse themselves in the delightful fantasy that they get to experience on the silver screen.”
The company is developing Phase One of the Dubai Parks and Resorts project, which comprises three theme parks — Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai and Legoland Dubai. It will also feature Riverpark, a grand entrance plaza and Lapita, a family hotel.
Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan, owner of Red Chillies Entertainment, said: “The UAE is a cultural potpourri. Not only non-resident Indians but Emiratis, Arabs and people from other Asian countries living here are ardent Bollywood fans. We are sure the theme park with its spectacular rides and attractions will successfully bring the Bollywood experience to life.”
pkannan@thenational.ae
