'Hunger Games' Rides and Attractions Coming to Dubai Theme Park

A wax figure of Katniss Everdeen at Madame Tussaud’s in London/Getty 

by Dave McNary

Katniss Everdeen is getting into the theme park business, with Lionsgate set to bring theme park attractions based on The Hunger Games franchise to Dubai.

The studio announced Tuesdsay that it has partnered with Dubai Parks and Resorts to bring a Lionsgate zone to Motiongate Dubai, opening in October 2016.

The Lionsgate zone will feature theme park attractions and a retail facility inspired by The Hunger Games franchise along with a live stage show based on Step Up: All In and Step Up: Revolution.

“Our franchises are continuing to drive location-based entertainment opportunities around the world,” said Lionsgate CEO Jon Feltheimer. “We’re proud to partner with the team at Dubai Parks and Resorts to create a thrilling total entertainment experience designed to attract millions of new fans and continue the global expansion of our brands.”

Motiongate Dubai is being planned to draw over three million visits a year with 27 rides and attractions that will take attendees on “an immersive cinematic journey through their favorite films.”

The first three Hunger Games films — which star Jennifer Lawrence — have grossed more than $2.3 billion at the worldwide box office. The attractions will launch nearly a year after the Nov. 20, 2015, release of the fourth and final film, The Hunger Games: Mockingjay – Part 2.

Lionsgate announced in late 2013 that it was exploring getting into the theme park business.

Dubai Parks and Resorts CEO Raed Al Nuaimi said, “Lionsgate’s Hunger Games, Step Up and other signature properties are the perfect centerpiece for one of the most visionary new theme parks in the world. Through this partnership we are offering even more for the whole family to enjoy on their visit and are confident that Motiongate Dubai will set a global benchmark as the ultimate movie-themed destination.”

Dubai Parks and Resorts is also building Legoland Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai and Lapita, a Polynesian-themed resort.

Lionsgate announced plans in November for a live stage show based on The Hunger Games that would launch in 2016. The studio has teamed with Dutch media company Imagine Nation and U.S. based Triangular Entertainment to bring the show to a new, purpose-built theater next to Wembley Stadium in London.