Winterland Al Ain opens at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium

New winter-themed attraction offers games, ice skating and family fun

Last updated: December 26, 2025 | 22:23

2 MIN READ

Winterland Al Ain aims to boost entertainment and leisure options in the city.

Al Ain: Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan attended the opening of Winterland Al Ain, a winter games event being held at Hazza bin Zayed Stadium until January 15, 2026. The event is part of efforts to expand entertainment and sports options in the region.

Winterland Al Ain adds a new attraction to the city’s leisure scene, offering a range of activities for all age groups in a winter-themed setting. Attractions include ice skating, adventure games, and interactive zones for children and young people.

The venue also features sports and leisure facilities, along with restaurants and cafés inspired by local heritage, reflecting Al Ain’s cultural identity. Visitors can also take part in creative programmes and cultural workshops designed to build children’s skills and encourage creativity.

During his visit, Sheikh Mohammed said community-based sports and recreational events play an important role in improving quality of life. He noted that such activities help strengthen social bonds, promote healthy lifestyles, and meet the needs of families, in line with the leadership’s vision for national development.

Also Read: Sheikh Zayed Festival adds Wonderland to 2025–26 lineup

Winterland Al Ain as a year-round attraction

The launch supports plans to position Al Ain as a destination for family and community events throughout the year. This includes continued investment in infrastructure, improved public services, and the development of recreational and sports facilities for all.

Sheikh Mohammed was accompanied at the opening by Rashid Musbah Al Manai, Director General of Al Ain City Municipality, Brigadier Saeed Hamid bin Dalmouj Al Dhaheri, Director of Al Ain Police Directorate, and several officials.

Abdulla RasheedEditor - Abu Dhabi

Abdullah Rashid Al Hammadi  is an accomplished Emirati journalist with over 45 years of experience in both Arabic and English media. He currently serves as the Abu Dhabi Bureau Chief fo Gulf News. Al Hammadi began his career in 1980 with Al Ittihad newspaper, where he rose through the ranks to hold key editorial positions, including Head of International News, Director of the Research Center, and Acting Managing Editor. A founding member of the UAE Journalists Association and a former board member, he is also affiliated with the General Federation of Arab Journalists and the International Federation of Journalists. Al Hammadi studied Information Systems Technology at the University of Virginia and completed journalism training with Reuters in Cairo and London. During his time in Washington, D.C., he reported for Alittihad  and became a member of the National Press Club. From 2000 to 2008, he wrote the widely read Dababees column, known for its critical take on social issues. Throughout his career, Al Hammadi has conducted high-profile interviews with prominent leaders including UAE President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, and key Arab figures such as the late Yasser Arafat and former presidents of Yemen and Egypt. He has reported on major historical events such as the Iran-Iraq war, the liberation of Kuwait, the fall of the Berlin Wall, and the establishment of the Palestinian Authority. His work continues to shape and influence journalism in the UAE and the wider Arab world.