Planning a theme park visit can be overwhelming—especially when you’re faced with three incredible options in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Do you go for the adrenaline-pumping Ferrari World, the cinematic magic of Motiongate, or the all-indoor thrills at IMG Worlds of Adventure? Picking the wrong one could mean missing out on the kind of experience you will truly enjoy.
Dubai has established itself as a global hub for world-class entertainment, offering theme parks that cater to every type of thrill-seeker. But with so many choices, how do you know which one is worth your time and money?
That’s where this guide comes in. We’ll break down the top attractions, unique experiences, and must-know details of each park—helping you decide which one is the perfect fit for your next adventure. Let’s dive in!
Overview of the Three Theme Parks
| Feature | IMG Worlds of Adventure | Ferrari World Abu Dhabi | Motiongate Dubai |
What is it? | The world’s largest indoor theme park with thrilling rides and immersive zones. | A Ferrari-branded theme park featuring high-speed rides and automotive attractions. | A Hollywood-inspired theme park with rides based on blockbuster movies. |
Location | Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road | Yas Island, Abu Dhabi | Dubai Parks and Resorts, Dubai |
Themed Zones | Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure, IMG Boulevard & Haunted Hotel | No separate zones, but features Ferrari-themed attractions | DreamWorks, Columbia Pictures, Lionsgate, Smurfs Village |
Number of Rides | 22+ rides | 40+ rides | 30+ rides |
Fastest Ride | Velociraptor – Launches at 100 km/h in 2.5 sec | Formula Rossa – The world’s fastest roller coaster at 240 km/h | Capitol Bullet Train – Inspired by The Hunger Games |
Best For | Marvel fans, dinosaur lovers, and families looking for an all-indoor experience | Thrill-seekers, car enthusiasts, and adrenaline junkies | Movie lovers, families, and adventure-seekers |
Unique Experience | The Haunted Hotel – a spine-chilling walkthrough horror attraction | Driving a Ferrari and experiencing extreme speed on Formula Rossa | Step into real movie sets with immersive rides |
Ideal Visitor Type | Families, kids, and theme park lovers who prefer indoor entertainment | Teens, adults, and speed lovers | Families, kids, and movie fans |
Ticket Price Range | Mid-range | Premium | Mid-range |
Best Time to Visit | Anytime (fully indoor) | Cooler months (mostly outdoor) | Cooler months (partially outdoor) |
Ticket Prices & Best Value for Money
So, you’re dreaming of an epic theme park adventure in Dubai, but there’s one big question on your mind—how much is this going to cost? We get it! You want to experience all the thrills, rides, and attractions without blowing your budget.
Good news! Whether you’re eyeing IMG Worlds of Adventure, Ferrari World, or Motiongate, there are ways to maximize the fun while saving money. Let’s break down the ticket prices and the best value options so you can spend less and enjoy more!
IMG Worlds of Adventure tickets currently start at around AED 225 for a day pass, though prices can vary depending on the season and any ongoing promotions. As Dubai’s largest indoor theme park, spanning 1.5 million square feet of climate-controlled fun, it’s a fantastic option year-round regardless of the desert heat outside.
Over at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, standard tickets begin at approximately AED 345 that gives you access to all the thrilling rides and attractions. If you’re an adrenaline junkie looking to experience Formula Rossa (the world’s fastest roller coaster), this is definitely worth considering.
For movie buffs and animation fans, Motiongate Dubai tickets typically start at AED 245 for a day pass. With zones dedicated to DreamWorks, Lionsgate, and Columbia Pictures, you’ll get to immerse yourself in some of your favorite films and shows.
Now here’s where the real savings come in – combo tickets! Dubai knows tourists want to experience multiple attractions, so they offer some really smart bundling options.
Here are some money-saving combo deals to consider: Dubai Parks and Resorts Pass – Includes Dubai Parks and Resorts: Multi-Park Tickets, 2 Park Combo: Motiongate, Legoland, Legoland Water Park, Real Madrid ,
Yas Island Multi-Park Pass – Perfect if you want to explore Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and Yas Waterworld at a discount. Check out Yas Island Combo Tickets: Ferrari, SeaWorld, Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros. Yas Island Abu Dhabi – 2 Parks Pass
IMG + Motiongate Combo – Some tour providers offer discounted bundle tickets for both parks, so keep an eye out!
These are just few of our our combo tickets for eah of these attractions. Visit Thrillark to know more about attracting combo tickets!
Which is the Best Theme Park for Thrill Seekers?
If you’re the kind of person who craves speed, adrenaline, and stomach-dropping twists, choosing the right theme park is a serious decision. You don’t want to end up on kiddie rides when you’re here for the biggest, fastest, and craziest attractions. So, which park in Dubai is the ultimate thrill-seeker’s paradise? Let’s dive in!
Speed Demons, This One’s for You!
When it comes to pure speed, Ferrari World takes the crown. It’s home to Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster in the world, launching riders from 0 to 240 km/h in just 4.9 seconds. That’s faster than a real Formula 1 car—so if you love the feeling of wind whipping against your face while your heart pounds, this is the ride for you.
IMG Worlds of Adventure isn’t far behind when it comes to thrill rides. The Velociraptor coaster launches you at 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds, taking you through prehistoric jungles and right into the Dubai desert. It’s not as fast as Formula Rossa, but the sudden launch and unexpected drops make it a wild ride for you enjoy.
Motiongate might not have the fastest coaster, but it makes up for it with pure intensity. Madagascar Mad Pursuit is the park’s fastest ride, hitting speeds of 80 km/h with unexpected twists and turns in near darkness. If you prefer roller coasters that are more about sudden surprises and high-speed chases, this one will keep you on edge.
The Most Extreme Rides – Which Park Wins?
Thrill rides aren’t just about speed—it’s about drops, loops, and sheer fear factor. Ferrari World goes beyond just Formula Rossa. Flying Aces features the steepest cable lift in the world, taking you to dizzying heights before sending you into insane loops. If you think you can handle intense G-forces, this one’s a must.
Over at IMG Worlds, Thor Thunder Spin is a nightmare (or a dream) for those who love intense spinning, flipping, and getting suspended upside down. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but if you love rides that play with gravity, this one will leave you dizzy—in the best way.
Motiongate’s biggest thrill ride? Capitol Bullet Train in the Lionsgate zone. Inspired by The Hunger Games, this high-speed coaster takes you on inversions, vertical loops, and heart-stopping drops. It’s the most extreme ride in Motiongate, and if you love big loops and intense turns, you’ll want to check it out.
Height & age restrictions for thrill rides
IMG Worlds of Adventure – Who Can Ride?
At IMG Worlds, children under 12 years old must be accompanied by an adult (18+) at all times. Ride height requirements vary, but many attractions require riders to be at least 1.05 meters (3ft 5in) tall.
If you’re looking for serious scares, be aware that the Haunted Hotel is strictly for guests 15 years and older—so no sneaking in if you’re younger!
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi – Height Restrictions
Ferrari World caters to all ages, but if you’re bringing kids under 1.3 meters (4.26 feet), they may need a junior ticket and will have access to only select rides. For those over 1.3 meters, a standard adult ticket applies.
The park’s most extreme ride, Formula Rossa (the world’s fastest roller coaster), has a strict height requirement of 1.4 meters (4.59 feet). But don’t worry—little racers aren’t left out! The Formula Rossa Junior allows kids as small as 90 cm (2.95 ft) to get a taste of the thrill.
Bonus: If you’re visiting with toddlers, children under 3 years old get free entry when accompanied by a parent.
Motiongate Dubai – Height Limits
Motiongate Dubai doesn’t have a strict age limit for entry, but ride restrictions are in place for safety reasons. Most attractions have a minimum height requirement of 1.05 meters (3ft 5in), so younger kids may have limited ride options.
If you’re visiting with children under 13, make sure an adult is always present—supervision is required for younger guests throughout the park.
Best Theme Park for Families & Kids – Which One Should You Choose?
Planning a family-friendly day out in Dubai and wondering which theme park will keep the little ones entertained? Whether you’ve got tiny tots, adventurous tweens, or a mix of both, choosing the right park can make all the difference. The last thing you want is to arrive at a park filled with extreme thrill rides when all your kids want is a fun, easygoing adventure. So, which one is the best for families—IMG Worlds, Ferrari World, or Motiongate? Let’s find out!
Is IMG Worlds of Adventure Good for Kids?
Absolutely! IMG Worlds is packed with kid-friendly zones that bring their favorite characters to life. The Cartoon Network Zone is a paradise for little ones, featuring rides inspired by Ben 10, The Powerpuff Girls, and Adventure Time. If your kids love superheroes, the Marvel Zone lets them see Spider-Man, Iron Man, and Thor up close.
For those who love dinosaurs, the Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure offers a prehistoric-themed adventure that isn’t too intense for kids. And the best part? The entire park is indoor and air-conditioned, making it perfect for families looking to escape the heat.
Is Ferrari World Kid-Friendly?
At first glance, Ferrari World might seem like a park designed for speed demons and adrenaline junkies, but it actually has plenty for younger kids too! The Junior Grand Prix lets little racers drive their own mini Ferraris, while the Speed of Magic 4D ride is a thrilling, family-friendly adventure that doesn’t involve any high-speed drops.
For toddlers and smaller children, the Ferrari-themed soft play area and interactive zones are great places to burn off energy without any scary surprises. And if your kids want to experience the excitement of a roller coaster but aren’t quite ready for Formula Rossa, there’s a junior version just for them!
Is Motiongate Dubai Better for Families?
If you’re visiting with kids, Motiongate Dubai might just be the best choice. This park is all about Hollywood magic, bringing DreamWorks, Lionsgate, Columbia Pictures, and the Smurfs Village to life. Unlike the other parks, Motiongate is designed with family-friendly attractions in mind, meaning there’s something for every age group.
The Smurfs Village is perfect for toddlers, with gentle rides and interactive play areas that bring these tiny blue characters to life. The DreamWorks zone is packed with kid-friendly attractions based on movies like Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and Madagascar, offering fun-filled rides without extreme thrills. And if your family loves a bit of excitement, Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs – River Expedition is a splash-filled adventure that’s fun for all ages.
Dining, Facilities & Convenience – Everything You Need to Know Before You Visit
A theme park visit isn’t just about the rides—it’s about the whole experience. After all, between the thrill rides and non-stop exploring, you’re bound to get hungry, need a place to store your belongings, or even find a quiet spot to take a break. So, what do IMG Worlds, Ferrari World, and Motiongate offer in terms of dining, facilities, and convenience? Let’s break it down!
Can You Bring Your Own Food?
If you were hoping to pack a picnic, here’s the deal—outside food and drinks are not allowed in IMG Worlds, Ferrari World, or Motiongate. But don’t worry! Each park has a variety of dining options to keep you fueled throughout the day.
At IMG Worlds, you’ll find a mix of fast food, international cuisine, and themed restaurants, perfect for grabbing a quick bite between rides. Ferrari World takes it up a notch with authentic Italian dining experiences, offering everything from pasta and pizza to gourmet meals. Over at Motiongate, the options are Hollywood-inspired, featuring restaurants themed around your favorite movies and characters.
Need a Place to Store Your Belongings?
If you’re carrying extra bags, cameras, or anything you don’t want to lug around, IMG Worlds, Ferrari World, and Motiongate all provide locker facilities. These are perfect for stashing away your stuff while you enjoy the rides, giving you the freedom to move around without worrying about losing anything.
Prayer Rooms & Other Facilities
For those looking for a quiet space to pray or take a break, all three parks—IMG Worlds, Ferrari World, and Motiongate—offer dedicated prayer rooms with comfortable spaces to refresh and recharge.
And if staying connected is important, IMG Worlds offers free WiFi, so you can share your adventures in real-time, check ride wait times, or simply take a breather while scrolling through your favorite apps.
Making Your Visit Smooth & Hassle-Free
No matter which theme park you choose, you’ll find well-maintained facilities, family-friendly amenities, and plenty of dining choices to keep you comfortable throughout the day. Whether you’re craving a delicious meal, need a secure place for your belongings, or just want to relax for a while, these parks ensure that your visit is as convenient and enjoyable as possible.
Best Theme Park for a Short Visit – Which One Fits Your Schedule?
Not everyone has a full day to spare at a theme park—sometimes, you just want a quick adventure without feeling rushed. If you’re short on time and wondering which park offers the best experience within a few hours, let’s break down IMG Worlds, Ferrari World, and Motiongate to see which one fits your schedule best!
How Much Time Do You Need at IMG Worlds?
IMG Worlds of Adventure is fully indoors, making it easy to explore without weather slowing you down. With four themed zones featuring Marvel superheroes, Cartoon Network characters, dinosaurs, and spooky attractions, you can comfortably cover the major rides in about 4 to 5 hours if you plan strategically.
If you’re a thrill-seeker wanting to ride everything, a full day is ideal, but if you’re selective about attractions and visit during non-peak hours, half a day is enough to experience the highlights.
Is One Day Enough for Ferrari World?
Ferrari World is home to Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster, along with other high-speed attractions. If you’re just there for the extreme rides, you can finish in about 4 to 5 hours, especially if you grab a fast pass to skip the lines.
However, if you want to enjoy all the family-friendly rides, interactive attractions, and Ferrari-themed experiences, a full day is recommended. Keep in mind that Ferrari World is located on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, so factor in travel time if you’re coming from Dubai.
How Long Does It Take to Explore Motiongate?
Motiongate is Dubai’s largest Hollywood-inspired theme park, featuring DreamWorks, Lionsgate, Columbia Pictures, and Smurfs Village. With over 25 rides and attractions, it’s bigger than IMG Worlds and requires more time to explore. If you’re selective with rides, 5 to 6 hours should be enough to hit the top attractions.
For families with kids who want to enjoy interactive experiences, live shows, and themed play areas, a full day is ideal. Since Motiongate is part of Dubai Parks and Resorts, you might even want to check out nearby attractions like Legoland if time allows.
Which Park is Best for a Short Visit?
- If you have just a few hours and want an indoor experience, IMG Worlds is your best bet.
- If you love high-speed thrills and can prioritize the main rides, Ferrari World works for a half-day visit.
- If you prefer Hollywood-themed rides and want to experience a variety of attractions, Motiongate is great—but you’ll need at least 5 to 6 hours to make the most of it.
So, which park fits your schedule best? No matter what, each one promises an action-packed experience—even if you’re short on time!
Accessibility & Travel Tips
IMG Worlds of Adventure
IMG Worlds sits on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) in the City of Arabia area. If you’re staying in downtown Dubai, you’re looking at about a 30-minute drive. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or ride-sharing app – just tell your driver “IMG Worlds of Adventure” and they’ll know exactly where to go.
Unfortunately, there’s no direct metro connection to IMG Worlds yet, but don’t let that stop you! Many hotels offer shuttle services to major attractions, so check with your concierge. Alternatively, you can take the metro to Dubai Internet City Station and catch a taxi from there for a more budget-friendly option.
If you’re driving, IMG Worlds has plenty of free parking spaces right in front of the entrance. Just follow the signs on E311, and you’ll spot the massive IMG dome from a distance – it’s pretty hard to miss!
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Ready for a bit of an adventure? Ferrari World is actually located on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, about a 1-hour drive from central Dubai. The journey itself can be part of the fun as you cruise down Sheikh Zayed Road with views of the desert landscape.
Your transportation options include hiring a private taxi (expect to pay around AED 250-300 one way), joining an organized tour that includes transportation, or renting a car. If you choose to drive, the route is straightforward – follow E11 toward Abu Dhabi, then take the exit for Yas Island and follow signs to Ferrari World. Plentiful free parking surrounds the venue.
There’s also a bus service (route 190) that runs from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, from which you can take a local taxi to Yas Island. This option takes longer but costs significantly less.
Motiongate Dubai
Motiongate is part of Dubai Parks and Resorts, located on Sheikh Zayed Road near the Abu Dhabi border. The good news is that this entertainment complex is more accessible via public transport than the others!
The nearest metro station is UAE Exchange (formerly Jebel Ali) on the Red Line, where you can hop on the Dubai Parks & Resorts shuttle bus that runs regularly throughout the day. The shuttle is free for ticket holders, making this a convenient and cost-effective option.
If you’re driving, take Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) south toward Abu Dhabi, and you’ll see signs for Dubai Parks & Resorts. The complex has massive parking areas with thousands of spaces, all free of charge. The parking lots are also well-organized by zones corresponding to different parks, so remember where you parked!
Taxis and ride-sharing apps are always available options too, with the journey taking about 25-30 minutes from downtown Dubai.
Travel Tips for All Parks
No matter which magical world you’re heading to, I recommend setting off early in the morning to beat both traffic and crowds. Most parks open around 11 AM or 12 PM, but arriving 30 minutes before opening can give you a head start on the most popular attractions.
If you’re visiting during peak tourist season (December-February or during major holidays), allow extra travel time as roads can get congested. And while all parks have plenty of parking, the spots closest to entrances fill up quickly on weekends and holidays.
For families with small children or visitors with mobility concerns, all three parks offer excellent accessibility options, including wheelchair rentals and priority boarding for most attractions. Just be sure to inquire at the guest services desk upon arrival.
Final Verdict: Which Park is Best for You?
Let’s face it—with so many incredible theme parks in Dubai, deciding where to spend your precious vacation time and dirhams can be overwhelming. I’ve explored every corner of these magical worlds to help you find your perfect match!
Best Theme Park for Thrill-Seekers
If heart-pounding, adrenaline-pumping action is what you crave, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi stands head and shoulders above the rest. Where else can you experience Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster that launches you from 0 to 240 km/h in under five seconds? The feeling of 4.8 Gs pressing against your face as you zoom around the track is simply unmatched.
Best Theme Park for Families
For families with children of various ages, IMG Worlds of Adventure wins this category hands-down. The massive indoor park perfectly balances thrills with family-friendly attractions, meaning everyone from toddlers to teenagers and parents will find something to love. . The climate-controlled environment means you’re not battling the desert heat while trying to keep everyone happy, and there are plenty of dining options and rest areas when little legs get tired. The thoughtful layout also makes it easy to navigate with strollers.
Best Theme Park for Ferrari Fans
This one’s a no-brainer—Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a shrine to the legendary Italian sports car manufacturer. Beyond the thrill rides, what makes this park special for Ferrari enthusiasts is the immersive brand experience. You can tour a detailed replica of the Ferrari factory, explore the history of the brand at the Racing Legends museum, and even feel what it’s like to change tires as part of a Formula 1 pit crew.
Best Theme Park for Movie Lovers
Motiongate Dubai transports cinephiles into the worlds of their favorite films and is unquestionably the premier destination for movie enthusiasts. Walking through immersive zones dedicated to DreamWorks, Lionsgate, Columbia Pictures, and Smurfs Village feels like stepping directly onto Hollywood sets.
Which Theme Park Offers the Best Value for Money?
When considering the all-important value equation, Dubai Parks and Resorts (which includes Motiongate) emerges as the winner. Their multi-park passes give you access to a combination of Motiongate, Legoland Dubai, Legoland Water Park, for significantly less than purchasing individual tickets. With a two-day pass, you could experience Motiongate one day and split your second day between two other parks, essentially getting three parks for the price of about 1.5 regular tickets. Check out Thrillark to know more exciting offers on tickets. The central location of all these attractions also means you’re saving on transportation costs. Plus, the variety of experiences across these different parks ensures everyone in your group gets to enjoy their preferred type of entertainment without compromise, maximizing your entertainment dollars.
Remember that the “best” park ultimately depends on your personal preferences, who you’re traveling with, and what experiences matter most to you. Dubai’s theme parks are world-class across the board, each with unique attractions you won’t find anywhere else. Our suggestion? If time and budget allow, try to experience at least two different parks to get a taste of the incredible diversity Dubai’s entertainment scene has to offer. Your Instagram followers—and your memory bank—will thank you!
Conclusion: Your Perfect Dubai Theme Park Awaits!
You’ve seen what Dubai’s spectacular theme parks have to offer—now it’s time to choose your adventure! Whether you’re clutching the harness on Ferrari World’s record-breaking Formula Rossa (imagine your face at 240 km/h!), laughing with your little ones in IMG Worlds’ cartoon wonderland, or stepping into your favorite movie scenes at Motiongate, unforgettable memories are just a ticket away.
If you’re bringing the family, you’ll love how IMG Worlds keeps everyone from toddlers to teens entertained while you escape the desert heat. Planning a romantic day out? Nothing says “I’m adventurous” like challenging your partner to brave Ferrari World’s heart-stopping coasters before unwinding with Italian-inspired dining. And if you’re the friend who always seeks the biggest thrills, you absolutely must experience the face-melting G-forces that only Ferrari World delivers.
Ready to transform these daydreams into reality? Your ticket to excitement is just a click away! Head to Thrillark now to snag your passes for IMG World, Ferrari World, or Motiongate—often with special rates you won’t find at the gate. Why wait in line tomorrow when you could be planning your perfect theme park day today? Your Dubai adventure story is waiting for you to write it!
