Since its establishment as a leisure pursuit in early 19th-century England, tenpin bowling has gradually risen to become one of the world’s most beloved pastimes. These days, going bowling isn’t just about launching a ball down a lane in the vain hope of catching a lucky strike; it is about so much more. Modern bowling facilities stand as all-encompassing entertainment venues, with a whole host of amusements to keep the family occupied for hours. And venues in Abu Dhabi, as the capital of the UAE, are no different. These are the best places in the city to knock down some skittles.
Bowling City
Located in Al Mariah Mall, Bowling City is a 12-lane chain facility which offers a variety of leisure options. In addition to the bowling, the venue also presents a range of table games from pool to billiards and snooker – perfect for those who wish to further brush up on their hand-eye coordination. Bowling City also features classic games such as table football, while there are a variety of video games on offer, providing hours of entertainment for the kids.
For those looking for added fun while the kids are playing, why not gather your friends for an evening of karaoke? Bowling City provides cosy rooms which boast a wide selection of songs, from classics to modern favourites, offering you the opportunity to impress your friends with your renditions of the biggest hits.
There is something for everyone at Bowling City, which features a range of different packages, from children’s birthday parties to more corporate, business events.
Xtreme Bowling
Situated on level 2 of Deerfields Mall – just off Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Street (E10) – Xtreme Bowling provides a lively atmosphere and well-maintained lanes. The venue employs staff who are as friendly as they are helpful – ideal for entertaining energetic children.
The facility also presents a wide range of food and beverage options, with plenty of snack choices if you happen to be feeling a little peckish between games.
Ideal for family birthdays, a competitive game between friends, or a date night, Xtreme Bowling also offers arcade facilities and stands as one of the best bowling facilities in Abu Dhabi.
Khalifa International Bowling Centre
The biggest bowling facility in the city, Khalifa International Bowling Centre was opened in 1999 for the purpose of hosting the 2001 FIQ World Bowling Championships. The venue offers 40 lanes and is so prestigious, in fact, that it is still the only venue to host the championships twice, with the second instalment coming in 2015.
Of course, it isn’t just bowling on offer in this outstanding location: there is also a table tennis room, a billiards room and a small video arcade. Thanks to its all-encompassing entertainment value, this centre stands shoulder-to-shoulder with other facilities when it comes to hosting children’s birthday parties, family gatherings and group nights with friends. In addition to these world-class sporting offerings, the establishment hosts three restaurants, including the award-winning Noodle Bowl.
Moreover, visitors can take advantage of the facility’s location at Zayed Sports City, which presents extra fun in the form of various ice sports, padel and roller skating, among many more.
Strike Out Bowling
While not the biggest bowling facility in the city, Strike Out Bowling is a family-friendly venue nonetheless. Offering just four lanes, there is a sense of exclusivity coursing through the location, which also provides guests with a karaoke bar and a range of refreshments.
Located in the Abu Dhabi Country Club, those who visit can also take advantage of the site’s vast range of recreational facilities, including a plethora of racquet sport courts, football pitches, a gym, and a sauna and steam room.
Ideal for social events, including corporate parties, Strike Out Bowling is the perfect choice for those wishing for a bowling experience in quieter surroundings.
ZEAL Entertainment Centre
Housed in Dalma Mall in the south of the city, ZEAL Entertainment Centre is your one-stop amusement facility for a fun-packed day out.
The venue is open from 10 am to 12 am and is the ideal setting for a family outing. And like any good entertainment zone, ZEAL also offers a range of other options including a high-tech virtual realty area. With state-of-the-art equipment such as head-mounted displays and motion capture systems, there are a range of exhilarating games on offer. In addition, there is a comprehensive video game zone, as well as more traditional games such as laser tag. The facility also boasts the highly challenging Super Keeper, which allows guests the chance to try and score past ‘the world’s fastest goalkeeper’.
The centre’s dining options include FIZZ Restaurant, which offers a carefully crafted menu with the freshest ingredients. When you’re done, why not round out the day at the outlet’s cosy shisha lounge, which features a wide selection of flavours.
Central
“The ultimate food-meets-fun family destination in the heart of Yas Island”, Central takes inspiration from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple – New York City. Ideal for kid’s birthday parties, this venue presents a state-of-the-art arcade, as well as live music, not to mention the bowling.
Central also offers a variety of further events, including ‘Brunch It On’, one of the biggest family brunches on Yas Island, as well as the ‘Roast N’ Roll’ Sunday lunch, which also provides smaller portions for the children. ‘Friday Fun Zone’ allows the kids to burn off some energy as the parents unwind, while ‘Wing It Wednesday’ offers two hours of unlimited wings for just AED 100.
Bowling continues to be a popular choice for quality time with friends and family. For those seeking a more competitive experience, venues such as the Khalifa International Bowling Centre offer a professional setting. Meanwhile, facilities like ZEAL and Strike Out Bowling provide a broader entertainment experience, combining bowling with a variety of other activities. With a wide range of options available across Abu Dhabi, there's never been a better time to let the good times roll.
