Modesh World 2023: embracing sustainability and paving the way for a greener tomorrow

In its two-decade history with Dubai Summer Surprises, Modesh World has solidified its position as one of the season’s most popular attractions. And, with a keen eye on sustainability for the 2023 edition, it seems that the indoor attraction will be around for many years to come.  

Sustainability and environmentally sound practices have become a growing trend in the UAE across all industries, as the country looks towards a better, brighter future for all in line with the national theme of ‘Today for Tomorrow’. Furthermore, it is no different at Modesh World, the indoor fun education experience located in Dubai World Trade Centre. Open daily, this year's edition runs until 27 August in halls 3-8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre. With more than 200,000 visitors expected through the doors this summer, smart and sustainable-thinking has been central to the planning for this edition, taking place during the UAE’s ‘Year of Sustainability’. 

Inside Modesh World, an array of initiatives and activations across the venue draw upon the UAE’s deep-rooted values of sustainability and the legacy of the nation’s founder the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.  



From cashless payments, to recyclable materials, to menus in the food court - much has changed to make Modesh World  a more sustainable and considerate, family day out. In the perfect example of how to showcase the UAE’s commitment in seeking innovative solutions to challenges related to sustainability, more than 80 per cent of the materials used in the construction of this year’s Modesh World are either recycled or refurbished. 



This has helped to reduce the environmental impact of staging the event, while the transition towards a cashless venue in line with the Dubai Digital Initiative has also contributed to sustainability goals. Visitors pay for food, drinks, and souvenirs using a cashless near-field communication (NFC) card, helping to reduce the amount of paper and plastic waste that is generated. Visitors are  encouraged to then recycle their NFC cards by dropping them in convenient containers as they exit the venue. 



As the attraction has grown in popularity, with many families coming back for more year after year, Modesh World organisers have reported a considerable increase in the number of cards being retained by visitors and re-used for subsequent visits - an example of a shared sustainability ethos among those who step through the doors to experience the magic inside. 

This is just part of a team effort from all those involved to ensure that Modesh World 2023 is the most sustainable edition to date.  



By working closely with its vendors, Modesh World is helping to create a friendly environment for its visitors. Each of the food trucks and cafes at the popular food court have committed to switching across to more sustainable business practices. This includes using recyclable cutlery, swapping plastic for paper, and avoiding single-use plastics.  

Additionally, fresh to the food court for 2023 are more vegan options for guests, to tie in with Modesh World’s overall sustainability drive. New this year is the Plant Essence restaurant, that not only promises culinary delights and a diversity of flavours, but also ensures that every dish is all plant-based and cruelty-free. Using high-quality ingredients and sourcing locally whenever possible, its team of highly skilled chefs have curated healthy, diverse, delicious meals to heal and nourish the body, senses and soul. That’s in addition to being better for the environment thanks to the lower carbon footprint of plant-based dishes when compared with those made using animal products.  



Running throughout the week, educational stage shows focus on the importance of caring for our planet by teaching children about the effects of climate change and how they can make a difference in their own lives - with valuable lessons for parents and grown ups too. Thanks to the numerous educational stage shows and workshops lined up at Modesh World throughout the course of the summer, huge effort has gone into spreading the message of the need to reduce, reuse and recycle for a more sustainable future to the next generation.  

Modesh World’s visitors are shown the importance of respecting our environment, how to be more sustainable, and the small steps each of us can take to play our part. Plus, all costumes used in the show are either refreshed and reused from previous shows or bought from sustainable brands, and once the season is over, will once again be upcycled. Within the show, presenters share their knowledge on how to upcycle and revamp clothes at home as well as tricks and tricks to refashion existing products - it’s sure to inspire the next generation of home-grown sustainable fashion brands and designers.  



By embracing sustainability, Modesh World is setting a positive example for other businesses and organisations, demonstrating through the power of edu-tainement, that it is possible to combine fun with environmentally-sound operations to reduce our negative impact on our planet. Modesh World, the free-to-enter indoor edutainment destination, boasts an array of themed games, learning zones and fun activities for kids of all ages.  

Enjoy the ultimate summer extravaganza filled with incredible surprises, unmissable retail offers, diverse culinary delights and endless entertainment this Dubai Summer Surprises, running until 3 September. For more information, visit @CelebrateDubai and @StyledByDubai on social media channels, and www.mydss.ae. Stay updated with all things Modesh World at @mymodesh. 



Dubai Summer Surprises is supported by key sponsor RAKBANK MasterCard and Strategic partners which include: Al Futtaim Malls (Dubai Festival City Mall & Festival Plaza), Al Seef, Al Zarooni Group (Mercato Shopping Mall), AW Rostamani Group, Bluewaters, Citywalk, Emirates Airline, Enoc, Etisalat, Majid Al Futtaim (Mall of the Emirates, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira), Nakheel Malls (Ibn Battuta Mall, Nakheel Mall, Dragon Mart 2, Palm West Beach and The View), The Beach and The Outlet Village.