Snow penguins debut at Ski Dubai as part of unique “Peng-Friend” encounter

Ski Dubai, the region’s premiere indoor ski resort, has welcomed a colony of Gentoo and King snow penguins and is inviting guests to make their own ‘Peng-Friends’, through a unique one-on-one encounter with these fun, loveable birds – allowing for the first of its kind interactive experience in the Middle East.   

Raised in the care of humans, the snow penguins are part of a multi-generation breeding program and have been brought to the UAE from SeaWorld in the United States, in an attempt to raise awareness about snow penguins and the conservation efforts required to sustain their natural habitat. 

The ‘Peng-Friend’ program will allow guests to meet the snow penguins and spend time directly interacting with them in an environment that has been specially created at Ski Dubai to replicate their natural Antarctic habitat. All encounters will be guided by professional snow penguin trainers, and include face-time with the snow penguins, underwater viewing, access to their splash pool and the opportunity to take pictures with their very own ‘Peng-Friend’. This exciting and unforgettable experience is open to all guests, starting from 3 years of age. 

Additionally Ski Dubai snow park visitors can witness a daily “March of the Penguins” free of charge. Children and families will be able to view these extraordinary birds travel across the Ski Dubai snow park as they navigate the sub-zero conditions and enjoy their surroundings as part of a physical and mental enrichment programme. 

“We are pleased to welcome the snow penguin colony to their new home at Ski Dubai and look forward to offering our guests a unique and once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to interact with these incredible birds in a one-on-one encounter, while simultaneously learning about how we can all contribute towards the conservation of their natural habitat. Ski Dubai is a natural fit for this initiative and we are confident that the ‘Peng-Friend’ program will be a memorable experience for the whole family. Additionally, we are delighted to be able to offer all mall visitors the opportunity to see the natural grace, beauty and charm of the penguins as they play in the snow and make themselves at home within Ski Dubai,” commented Omar El Banna, Marketing and Sales Director, Majid Al Futtaim Leisure & Entertainment. 

Penguin encounters can be booked directly at Ski Dubai or by calling: 04 409 4090 and are available from 1:00 p.m. – 9 p.m. on weekdays and from 12:00 p.m. – 9 p.m. on weekends.