UAE: Etisalat Signs MidEast's First 'smart' Theme Park Resort

Dubai Parks and Resorts, the region’s largest integrated theme park destination, and Etisalat announced their collaboration in creating the region’s first smart theme park resort.

As part of the collaboration, Etisalat said it will design and implement creative end-to-end smart solutions as well as build and manage a park-wide ICT (information and communications technology) and security infrastructure in preparation for the opening of the resort in October.

Under the terms of the agreement, the companies said they will work closely together to deliver a "seamless and engaging" guest experience through mobile devices, web portals, wristbands, smart kiosks and digital signage.

Etisalat will implement a set of smart applications and solutions at the entertainment destination to offer an innovative experience before, during and after the visit to the resort. These include unified marketing and engagement, smart ticketing, digital payments, smart parking, connected transportation, connected food and beverage, as well as retail and digital entertainment.

Raed Kajoor Al Nuaimi, CEO, Dubai Parks and Resorts, said: "Once operational, Dubai Parks and Resorts will not only fulfil the UAE’s vision to create an innovative digital economy while simultaneously supporting Dubai’s drive to build a smart city, but will also bring to life a consumer experience where the Internet of Things is realised.”

He added: “Today, we live in a digital world and our guests expect a fully integrated digital experience. Our partnership with Etisalat delivers on this expectation, and will enable access to Dubai Parks and Resorts in many forms. From booking tickets, to finding parking spaces, to choosing rides with lower wait times or deciding on the right cuisine to eat, this collaboration will facilitate an unforgettable trip for visitors with few simple clicks on their smart devices."

Saleh Al Abdooli, CEO of Etisalat, said: “We are pleased about this partnership as it paves the way for the region’s first smart park and contributes to making the UAE the most sought-after global destination for family-oriented entertainment.

“Through state-of-the-art infrastructure and platforms such as cloud, M2M and IoT, and with our expertise, capabilities and strong track record of delivering flagship ICT projects, we believe we are well-positioned to support Dubai Parks and Resorts realise its smart park vision and objectives."

Dubai Parks and Resorts will feature motiongate Dubai as well as the region’s first Legoland Park and a Legoland Water Park. It will also feature Bollywood Parks Dubai, the first ever theme park based on the sights and sounds of Bollywood. The entire destination will be connected by Riverland Dubai – a retail, dining and entertainment walkway while guests can stay at the Lapita Hotel, a Polynesian-themed resort catering to families.