Creep it real: Bone-chilling thrills to experience in Dubai this Halloween

If the foodie thrills aren’t enough, here’s where to turn up the fear factor with some seriously spine-tingling scares

Halloween in Dubai isn’t just about spooky brunches; it can be a full-on fright fest. From haunted houses and creepy escape rooms to terrifying immersive experiences that’ll send shivers down your spine, the city is pulling out all the stops this spooky season.

So if you’re done with the Halloween brunches and themed bites, it’s time to dial up the dread.

Here are the bone-chilling Halloween thrills in Dubai that will have you screaming 

Test your wits at a scary escape room in Dubai 

Feeling really brave? Rally your gutsiest friends (and even bring the scaredy-cats for a few laughs) and take on Dubai’s spookiest escape rooms. There are several dotted all over town, and some of them even come with live actors to up the fear levels. Try Dark Room at Phobia Escape Game; Psychiatric, Exorcism, Torture, or Chaos at Black Out; Circus, Silent Place, or Unknown at Horror Rooms by No Way Out. Got nerves of steel? Head to Insidious Escape Room (billed as the scariest horror escape room in town), or Escape House (preview of the spooky experience above).

Prices vary

Step into the wild side

If creepy crawlies give you the chills, The Green Planet is turning up the fright factor this Halloween. The Haunted Rainforest experience dares guests to explore the biodome’s darker side, venturing through four immersive levels filled with snakes, lizards, cockroaches, and other spine-tingling creatures. But the real thrill? A one-of-a-kind overnight camping adventure from Friday, October 31, to Saturday, November 1, where brave guests can join a haunted rainforest night walk. As the lights go down, the indoor zoo comes alive… and so do its creepiest residents. Not for the faint of heart (or the bug-averse). The camping experience runs from 7pm to 8am, with tents set beneath the rainforest canopy. Prices start at Dhs900 for a regular tent that sleeps two campers or Dhs1,700 for a large tent that accommodates a group of four. Book here. 

Want something a little less creepy? Check out the full list of (tamer) events at The Green Planet here.

*Spooky season for kids: Fun family things to do in Dubai this Halloween*

Try not to scream (out loud) in the theatre

Looking for an easy way to get your thrills and chills this Halloween? Head to the cinema, pick a horror flick, and prepare to fling popcorn at the poor soul sitting next to you. Our friends at VOX Cinemas are embracing spooky season in full force, with a near month-long lineup of scream-worthy horror films to keep your nerves on edge. You and your mate can enjoy unlimited movies for just Dhs250 and watch some of the latest spine-tingling horror films including The Conjuring: Last Rites, Black Phone 2, Dracula: A Love Tale, Him, Final Destination Bloodlines, Weapons, 28 Years Later, I Know What You Did Last Summer, Nosferatu, Sinners, Until Dawn, Bring Her Back, and The Long Walk in Standard and Premier. The question is… “What’s your favourite scary movie?”

Get your Halloween movie pass here. 

Step into the horror set of your nightmares

Dubai Parks and Resorts is bringing back the region’s scariest Halloween experience with Fright Nights 8: Phantasmagoria. Expect an ultimate fright-fest, where you will step straight into the twisted mind of Evil M. Reel, a cursed movie director who has transformed every corner of the park into his sinister film set. Want to be a part of the experience? Hollywood Theatre is hosting Phantasmagoria – a captivating dance-based show where guests become part of the story. Be afraid… 

For more information and to get your tickets, visit dubaiparksandresorts.com

Check in to The Haunted Hotel at IMG World of Adventure

We all enjoy a good staycation—but are you bold enough to check into a haunted hotel? At IMG Worlds of Adventure, prepare to enter a realm where restless spirits roam and terrifying creatures lurk around every corner. A word of caution: this experience isn’t for the faint of heart. It’s not recommended for guests who are easily startled or sensitive to confined spaces, flashing lights, loud noises, or sudden visual effects. If you’re sensitive to artificial smoke, strobe lighting, or theatrical makeup (including latex), you might want to stick to a beach resort instead.

After, make your way to the Haunted Cafe, where your meals are sprinkled with a dash of fear and a sprinkle of craziness.