Dubai's Real Madrid fans and city visitors were treated to a special occasion when team legends Roberto Carlos and Emilio Butragueno graced the grand opening of Real Madrid World, the world's first football-themed park, located in Dubai Park and Resorts.
The event was a star-studded affair, featuring Emilio Butragueno, Director of institutional relations at Real Madrid, and Roberto Carlos, celebrated as one of the greatest left-backs in football history. Both legends have left an indelible mark on Real Madrid's legacy and were joined by several esteemed guests to commemorate the event.
Spanning six hectares, the theme park boasts over 40 Real Madrid-themed rides and attractions, promising an unforgettable experience for families, football aficionados, and amusement park enthusiasts alike.
As the football icons interacted with the crowd, children flocked around them, eager to receive tips and advice on enhancing their skills. It was a touching scene, as the legends took the time to provide guidance and encouragement.
The day's highlight was when Butragueno and Carlos took to the park's football field, engaging in a match with over 100 children from the Real Madrid Foundation. Their presence added an extra thrill, given their numerous titles, record-breaking achievements, and historical contributions to Real Madrid.
"Although I have never seen Roberto Carlos play live, our coaches often speak of his incredible talent," said 10-year-old Bruno Mark, a passionate football fan proudly donning the team's jersey. "Meeting him in person was surreal. My coach often mentions how he could bend the ball in ways that seemed to defy physics, and now I understand why he is considered a legend," added Mark.
For many fans, encountering legends like Roberto Carlos was a dream fulfilled. "When my coach mentioned Roberto Carlos, I immediately searched for his videos on YouTube. I was amazed by his extraordinary skills, especially those remarkable free kicks," said Abdel Aziz.
Visitors can savor a unique dining experience at the park's exclusive Real Madrid-themed restaurants, offering a blend of Spanish and international cuisines, all while surrounded by iconic imagery and memorabilia from the club's storied past.
Fans can immerse themselves in the team's history through interactive exhibits and displays that celebrate team achievements, legendary players, and iconic moments.
Fernando Eiroa, CEO of Dubai Holding Entertainment, remarked, "Real Madrid World is more than just a theme park; it is a tribute to football. We are delighted to have legends like Emilio Butragueno and Roberto Carlos here, showcasing the club's heritage and honoring the global sport. Real Madrid World is a thrilling addition to Dubai's entertainment scene, providing inclusive, educational, and enjoyable experiences for everyone."
From testing football skills in 'The Real Challenge' to experiencing the 'Bernabéu Experience,' which features a display of 15 European football cups and 11 European basketball cups, fans can also take photos with life-sized figures of iconic players at 'Meet the Stars' and enjoy live match viewings with exclusive Madridista discounts on tickets and food.
To promote inclusivity, the park will host an Inclusive Sports Day for People of Determination (PoD), celebrating the joy of sports and ensuring that everyone can partake in the excitement.
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