Dubai-based Majid Al Futtaim (MAF) Group aims to replicate the success of its popular Ski Dubai indoor ski resort and theme park by launching ‘a sister theme park’ in a neighbouring country. Having announced the opening of Ski Egypt in Mall of Egypt next year, the group is exploring options for a ski resort and park in the region.
“We are always looking for more,” says Tom Scheffer, general manager – Leisure & Entertainment, Ski Dubai. However, he pointed out that MAF isn’t considering launching another ski park in the UAE, citing that such a unique amusement and entertainment destination required a minimum catchment area of visitors – both tourists and residents. About 65% of annual visitors to Ski Dubai are tourists, but November saw more residents than tourists, he reveals.
Talking about the challenges of operating an indoor ski resort in the middle of a desert, Scheffer said that the biggest challenge was technical, and that’s why the company relies heavily on the expertise of its technical teams. “Operationally, we are like any other amusement park, and strive to hire people that can bring a smile to the faces if our visitors,” he adds.