What’s On enlists Good to review the best bowling alleys in Dubai, Abu Dhabi. Find out where to go bowling in Dubai, including a licensed bowling alley.


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AL NASR LEISURELAND

Where? This ‘leisureland’ takes up a big chunk of Oud Metha, and includes a swimming pool, ice-rink, courts for tennis and squash, plus the ever-popular bowling.

What? This decidedly un-glam bowling alley is more about fun than a serious night at the lanes, with 8 lanes available for hire until 11.30pm each night.

Why? It’s small, open late and licensed. That’s right, you can have a beer with your bowling. Great for groups and work nights out, or an unusual date.

How much? Dhs15 per game for non-members or Dhs100 per lane for an hour.

Al Nasr Leisureland, Oud Metha, Dubai. Tel: (04) 3371234. alnasrll.com

Al Nasr Leisureland bowling alley in Dubai


SWITCH 

Where? Situated in Ibn Battuta mall, this bowling alley is one of the most modern in the UAE.

What? With 12 lanes, the latest sound and light technology, Switch is popular for children’s parties (complete with meal packages). And look out for their regular deals and discounts.

Why? There are all sorts of added extras here including private karaoke and Playstation rooms, billiards, gaming, a coffee shop and a lounge.

How much? Dhs30 per person per game, or Dhs150 per lane for an hour (maximum five people).

Ibn Battuta, Jebel Ali, Dubai. Tel: (04) 4405961. facebook.com/SwitchBowling 

Switch bowling alley in Dubai


DUBAI BOWLING CENTRE

Where? On the edge of Al Quoz, you’ll recognise this place by the giant blue orbs. There’s no other way to describe it.

What? One of the biggest in the land, you’ll find 16 lanes here and plenty of serious strike-seekers, with tournaments, leagues and competitions running regularly.

Why? Want to take your game to the next level? This is the place for you. Some competitions are even themed, so if you’ve ever dreamt of bowling while dressed as a cowboy, look no further.

How much? Rates vary from Dhs17 per game per person (Sun to Wed 10am to 6pm) to Dhs30 on weekend evenings, with lane hire costing between Dhs90 and Dhs135 per hour.

Al Quoz 1 (other side of SZR to Safa Park), Dubai. bowlingdubai.com

Dubai Bowling Centre bowling alley in Dubai


YALLA! BOWLING

Where? Amid the games, rides and attractions at Playnation in Mirdif City Centre you’ll find a 12-lane bowling alley.

What? This one is for the children, with all the bells and whistles that comes with kiddie-friendly bowling, such as a ‘cosmic’ theme and video stimulation.

Why? You can shop. They can bowl. It’s also suitable for children aged 5 years and upwards, with bumper to help the little ones cheat, we mean, play.

How much? Dhs20 per person per game (Sun to Wed) and Dhs25 Thursday to Saturday and public holidays. Socks are an extra Dhs5.

Mirdif City Centre, Mirdif. Tel: (800) 386. theplaymania.com/yallabowling

Yalla bowling alley in Dubai


DUBAI INTERNATIONAL BOWLING CENTRE 

Where? Located in Al Mamzar, this giant bowling centre is opposite Century Mall, just off Al Ittihad Road.

What? You want 36 lanes? You want cheap prices? And maybe a tournament or two? Get yourself here. But we take no responsibility for after-work traffic (eg it’s not fun).

Why? It’s open until 1am and with all those lanes you’re pretty much guaranteed a game. They also host regional and international tournaments, host children’s parties and offer summer camps.

How much? Rates vary from Dhs12 per person per game (Sun to Wed 9am to 4pm) to Dhs17 at weekends, with lane hire costing from Dhs80 to Dhs120 per hour.

Al Mamzar, Dubai. Tel: (04) 2969222. dubaibowlingcentre.com

Dubai International Bowling Centre bowling alley in Dubai


ZAYED SPORTS CITY (ABU DHABI)

Where? At the centre of Abu Dhabi’s sporting action, Zayed Sports City is home to everything active from netball to ‘combat sports’.

What? This whopping 40-lane alley plays host to some of the biggest bowling events in the UAE, including the 2014 and 2015 World Bowling Championships.

Why? As well as casual use, a league, tournaments and a pro shop, this place also has a surprisingly good Chinese restaurant in the form of Noodle Bowl. We’re not sure if that’s a pun.

How much? Fees from Dhs11 per game or Dhs80 per lane off-peak, up to Dhs13 per game or Dhs100 per lane.

Zayed Sports City, Airport Road, Abu Dhabi. Tel: (02) 4034648. zsc.ae


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