DreamWorks Animation & Universal Live Entertainment partner with Alshaya Group to bring beloved characters to the Middle East

17 Sep 2024

The region’s first DreamPlay family entertainment center to open in The Avenues – Riyadh, KSA, in Q4 2026

DreamWorks Animation and Universal Live Entertainment, today announced a partnership with leading international franchise operator Alshaya Group to bring the Middle East’s first DreamPlay interactive play and creativity center to the region.

As the first tenant to be confirmed to open in The Avenues - Riyadh, the partnership will see DreamPlay open in late 2026, when one of the Middle East’s largest lifestyle destinations is revealed in KSA.        

John Hadden, CEO of Alshaya Group, said: "We are incredibly proud to partner with DreamWorks Animation to bring beloved animated characters to life at DreamPlay, a family entertainment concept filled with fun activities the whole family can enjoy.” 

DreamPlay is an immersive approach to family entertainment where kids can play and take part in a wide range of creative activities and fun-filled experiences inspired by DreamWorks Animation's Kung Fu Panda, Shrek, Madagascar and How to Train Your Dragon.

 “We’re excited to partner with Alshaya Group on the first DreamPlay in the Middle East,” said Page Thompson, President, New Ventures, Universal Destinations & Experiences. “We look forward to bringing DreamWorks Animation’s characters and stories to life for families in Riyadh in 2026.”    

Commenting on the announcement, Shomoul Holding CEO, Waleed Alsharian added: “We are happy to announce the Middle East’s first DreamPlay as the first tenant in The Avenues – Riyadh. This exciting entertainment experience, along with many other world-class leading brand experiences are set to open in 2026 as we bring one of the largest lifestyle destinations to the region.”
Additional details about DreamPlay at The Avenues – Riyadh will be revealed over time. To stay updated on new developments, visit www.alshaya.com.