Occasionally, when conventional methods fail—whether it's the Netflix show, your favorite playlist, a late-night call to a friend, or even a heartfelt conversation with a family member—you find yourself in need of something more substantial. In these moments of despair, what you truly require is a release, a catharsis from the emotional turmoil you might be experiencing. This is why The Smash Room, a locally conceived idea, has emerged as the premier destination for UAE residents looking to alleviate stress and relax. Co-founded by Ibrahim Abudyak and Hiba Balfaqih, The Smash Room provides a unique and secure environment where individuals can express themselves and discharge their pent-up emotions by smashing and breaking various items into pieces. Customers can select from a broad array of objects to smash, including TVs, glassware, washing machines, and more, without any guilt or worry about wasting valuable items or needing to manage the aftermath of destruction.
The inception of The Smash Room was inspired by the personal struggles of its founders. Abudyak explains, "Hiba was dealing with the loss of her grandmother, and I was facing unemployment and a divorce. Traditional coping mechanisms didn't work for us, so one day, Hiba took some old junk to the backyard and smashed it to pieces, which brought her significant relief. That's when the idea hit us. She teamed up with me to bring this unique concept to life." Following the immense success of their initial venture, the duo has introduced another innovative concept: The Smash Mobile, the region's first mobile smash room. This mobile service brings the therapeutic act of smashing items directly to guests at any location, offering a novel approach to stress relief and entertainment.
Available for bookings across Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Al Ain, and Fujairah, the mobile smash room was created to make this unique stress-relief experience more accessible and convenient for a wider audience. "The mobile smash room differs from the traditional, stationary Smash Room in several ways. The setup is highly customizable, tailored to meet specific event themes or customer preferences," explains Abudyak. He emphasizes that ensuring the safety and well-being of customers remains a key priority, with the mobile version adhering to all safety measures implemented at The Smash Room to ensure a risk-free smashing experience. "Each participant will be provided with sturdy helmets, heavy-duty gloves, and full-body protective suits to protect against potential injuries from flying debris," he adds, noting the emotional and psychological benefits experienced by customers.
The controlled environment of smashing can foster a sense of empowerment, which is particularly beneficial for those seeking control in their lives, says Abudyak. "Participants often depart feeling happier and more relaxed, attributing this to the adrenaline rush and unique experience. Engaging in these sessions also promotes mindfulness, helping individuals be more present and temporarily alleviate worries," he adds. The mobile smash room can accommodate between 4 to 10 people simultaneously and is divided into two distinct zones inside separated by a mesh gate: one for gearing up with safety equipment, and the other for smashing activities.
