Aquaplay will combine learning with pleasure by boasting rides as well as characters called Aquapals led by Splash Aquaplay will combine learning with pleasure by boasting rides as well as characters called Aquapals led by Splash

Majid Al Futtaim Leisure is set to launch its new water-based ‘edutainment’ recreation facility based at Mirdif City Centre.

Designed and developed by the company to “push the boundaries of in-mall entertainment”, Aquaplay is looking to make a big splash with children of all ages.

Aquaplay was conceived to mix learning with pleasure, featuring interactive ‘aquatraptions’ aimed at two- to eight-year-olds and Majid Al Futtaim Leisure FEC general manager Silvio Liedtke said it was a “one-of-a-kind facility”.

“This was a Majid Al Futtaim Leisure project from concept to completion and it has taken a great deal of vision and hard work to bring together,” he said.

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“There has always been the scope to create an environment where children can interact with water without being completely submerged in it and we have taken it upon ourselves to realise that potential. It‘s the perfect way for children to build confidence around water.”

Due to open in the first quarter of 2010, Aquaplay features running and still water throughout.

It incorporates the marine themes of sandy beaches and palm trees and the conceptual atmosphere is completed by a cast of characters, the ‘Aquapals’, skippered by the nautical Captain Splash.

The Aquapals were designed to emphasise the importance of sea life and also educate children on water awareness.

Entertainment attractions include a two-ramp/two-chute indoor flume ride, a tug boat swing ship and a dedicated pool for 12 bumper boats.

Aquaplay will also be the host to the region’s first gemstone digging facility that encourages inquisitiveness as children look to uncover hidden treasures to take home.