In a city renowned for its skyscrapers, luxury hotels, and desert adventures, this experience remains unheard of. Imagine sitting inside a fancy restaurant in Dubai and suddenly some cute little penguins join you for dinner. Yes, you read that right. Dubai, a city known for being home to the world's tallest skyscraper, Burj Khalifa, also offers one of the most memorable travel experiences that takes place at sub-zero temperatures. The place we are talking about is hidden inside Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates. Here travellers can enjoy an extraordinary "Dinner with the Penguins" experience. A perfect meal where Gentoo and King penguins join you as your dinner companions. For travellers, this is something beyond the usual Dubai itinerary.
Dining with the Penguins
Travellers can have this experience within Ski Dubai's Snow Penguins area. It is an experience that combines wildlife interaction with fine dining in a private, temperature-controlled setting. Guests here are taken into an exclusive dining room from where they can look at the penguins. They can observe the pretty birds in a controlled environment while enjoying their meal. The package is priced at approximately AED 349 (INR 8,965) per person and includes:
- A three-course meal
- Access to a private dining room close to the penguin habitat
- Time with the penguins
- Two printed photographs with the birds
- A sub-zero dining experience unlike anywhere else in the Middle East
Advance booking is essential, as seating is limited. Travellers can book through the official Ski Dubai or Mall of the Emirates reservation platform.
What is so special about it?
The most special thing is the temperature. While outside, Dubai's temperatures can go beyond 40°C during peak summer, inside Ski Dubai the temperature is maintained below freezing to suit the penguins and snow-based attractions. While you relish your dinner, you can watch penguins swim, walk, and slide across the snow. It feels less like enjoying an evening in an Arctic-inspired retreat.
How to reach Mall of the Emirates
- By Dubai Metro: The easiest option is taking the Red Line to Mall of the Emirates Metro Station. It is directly connected to the shopping complex via an air-conditioned walkway.
- By taxi or ride-hailing services: Taxis and app-based rides provide direct drop-offs at the mall.
- By car: The mall offers extensive parking facilities for visitors who prefer driving.
Once inside, simply follow signs to Ski Dubai, the indoor snow park located within the mall.
Things travellers should know
- Reserve your table well in advance. Weekends and holidays are particularly busy.
- Dress comfortably. The dining environment is cold. Carry an extra layer for a comfortable experience.
Other experiences
Mall of the Emirates can easily be a full-day itinerary as there's so much to see and experience.
- Skiing in the desert: In addition to meeting the penguins, Ski Dubai also offers snow slopes where visitors can enjoy skiing.
- Meet-and-greet penguin experiences: Another interesting thing to do here is enjoying an interactive session with penguins under the guidance of trained staff.
- Shopping: With hundreds of international brands, Mall of the Emirates remains one of Dubai's premier retail destinations.
Dubai truly is far beyond anyone's imagination.
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TOI Lifestyle Desk
The TOI Lifestyle Desk is a dynamic team of dedicated journalists who, with unwavering passion and commitment, sift through the pulse of the nation to curate a vibrant tapestry of lifestyle news for The Times of India readers. At the TOI Lifestyle Desk, we go beyond the obvious, delving into the extraordinary. Consider us your lifestyle companion, providing a daily dose of inspiration and information. Whether you're seeking the latest fashion trends, travel escapades, culinary delights, or wellness tips, the TOI Lifestyle Desk is your one-stop destination for an enriching lifestyle experience.
