Lionel Messi experience debuts in Dubai to kick off Eid Al Adha 2025 festivities

Dubai: An immersive, interactive exhibition that allows visitors to step into the life and career of Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has opened in Dubai, just in time to lead the city’s packed schedule of Eid Al Adha celebrations.

‘The Messi Experience,’ located at Dubai Festival City Mall, offers fans a journey through nine interactive zones spread across 2,500sqm, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) announced.

“Football fans can immerse themselves in the extraordinary world of Lionel Messi, it said.

It features cutting-edge technology, interactive storytelling and thrilling football-themed games, according to Visit Dubai website. “From Messi’s early days in Rosario to his rise as a global icon, each zone captures pivotal moments in the athlete's career, bringing fans closer to the triumphs, challenges and passion that defined his legacy,” it added.

The attraction will run until February 28, 2026.

The Dubai debut of The Messi Experience World Tour after its turn in other international cities coincides with the upcoming citywide celebrations marking Eid Al Adha.

The programme, coordinated by DFRE, brings together concerts, traditional performances, family-friendly events, major retail sales, and hotel offers across the city from June 2 to 8.

Concerts, comedy shows

One of the highlights of the week is a concert by renowned Saudi singer Mohamed Abdo at Coca-Cola Arena on June 7. Families can also enjoy an Arabic stage play, The Greatest Wish, at Zabeel Theatre from June 6 to 8.

Comedy lovers are in for a double treat on June 7 as French comedian Roman Frayssinet heads to the Emirates Theatre while Indian comic sensation Shraddha Jain makes her Dubai debut at Sheikh Rashid Auditorium at The Indian High School.

Why hit the malls?

Shoppers, meanwhile, have plenty of reasons to hit the malls. The annual 3 Day Super Sale returns from May 30 to June 1, offering discounts of up to 90 per cent across more than 2,500 retail outlets.

Alongside that, a special raffle by Dubai Shopping Malls Group offers a chance to win a share of Dh200,000 in cash prizes. Shoppers spending at least Dh200 at participating malls will be eligible for the draw for 25 winners, which continues through the second day of Eid.

A separate draw at Dubai Festival City Mall gives shoppers who spend Dh300 or more the opportunity to win a Dh20,000 gift card.

Several malls will also host cultural entertainment, children’s workshops, and stage performances during the Eid break. Traditional Emirati music and dance, such as Al Ayala and Al Harbiya, will take centre stage at multiple locations, while some malls will offer special family activities and live entertainment from June 6 to 9.

Discounts galore

Beyond the malls, attractions across the city will also offer Eid discounts and special programmes. Visitors can enjoy discounted tickets of up to 30 per cent at various indoor attractions this Eid, with options ranging from animal shows to themed entertainment parks offering interactive games and family challenges.

Nature-inspired venues will host special activities including face painting and movie screenings, while adventure destinations outside the city are slashing prices on outdoor packages by half.

Dining delights, staycation offers

Across Dubai, restaurants and cafes are preparing festive feasts to mark the holiday, with menus celebrating both regional flavours and international favourites.

From luxury hotel restaurants to family-friendly eateries, options range from festive high teas to BBQ nights and curated menus inspired by regional and international cuisines.

Meanwhile, hotels across the city are offering staycation packages, with discounts of up to 45 per cent, dining credits, and free stays for children. Properties from the Palm Jumeirah to the desert outskirts are offering limited-time deals tailored for families and holidaymakers.

For those seeking a unique escape, there are discounts on private villa stays, including activities such as stargazing and horse riding, set against the backdrop of the Dubai desert.