Foton, a leading name in Middle East entertainment and edutainment, has announced it is investing 80 million Emirati dirhams ($21.8 million) in Abu Dhabi with the launch next month of two new edutainment centers.
“The leisure industry is expanding throughout the entire Abu Dhabi emirate and will continue to do so,” said Essam Sheta, regional general manager, Foton Edutainment. “We aim to lead the way through providing the latest, state-of-the-art entertainment facilities which educate at the same time.”
A Dh 45 million Sea world-themed center in Marina Mall in the capital city will cover some 4,515 square meters, and feature 18 rides and games, including a ‘fishing’ gallery, ‘Noah’s Ark,’ ‘Sinking Ship’ and a ‘Submarine Dark Walk.’ Also in Foton World Marina Mall will be the Wonderhall interactive scientific center, Starlab planetarium astrology base, a children’s care facility and play space. It will also boast hospitality and party rooms available for hire, an Internet café, coffee shop and juice bar.
The Dh 35 million, 5,250 square meter Foton World at Al-Jimi Mall in Al-Ain is being themed around a rain forest. “We chose the rainforest concept to raise awareness of environmental issues among the public and also because with Al-Ain being the agricultural capital of the UAE,” said Sheta.
Anticipating up to five million visitors a year, Foton is providing in Al-Ain a mix of edutainment activities through various interactive, educational and recreational play stations and activities, including a Wonderhall and a portable planetarium.
Sharjah-headquartered group currently operates facilities in Sharjah’s Al-Taawum Mall, at Lulu Center in Qusais, Dubai and at the Al-Manar Center in Ras Al-Khaimah. ― (MENA Report)
© 2001 Mena Report (www.menareport.com)
