Dubai is becoming one of the favourite destinations for entertainment and tourism, especially for families. As a city, Dubai has everything for everyone. As the mall culture is growing stronger than ever, the demand for Family Entertainment Centers (FECs) is also increasing. The mall owners, investors, and developers are looking for entertainment options that can bring in modern entertainment centres that have a variety of games like kiddie rides, soft play zones, interactive play areas, and the classic arcade games.
However, one of the first questions that every single entrepreneur asks is, ‘How much does it cost to buy quality family entertainment center equipment in Dubai?’
Well, here we are with the breakdown of the question with the cost, investment, and consideration that you should know before building an FEC in Dubai.
What Is a Family Entertainment Center (FEC)?
This might be already known to you, but let’s start from the beginning. An FEC, or Family Entertainment Center, is an entertainment venue that is designed to entertain any guest from any age group. An FEC could be indoor or outdoor, and it usually includes attractions such as:
Providing a complete entertainment experience is something that modern FECs are focusing on. They want to give different activities where families can spend time together and enjoy themselves together.
Average Cost of Building a Family Entertainment
Centre in Dubai
Now, let’s discuss the real topic. The total cost that you would have to spend on building an FEC will vary according to the scale of your project. We can break down the estimated investment range as follows:
These estimates will include family entertainment center equipment, interior designer, amusement equipment installation, and technology systems but exclude any long-term rents and commitments since they depend on the mall location and cannot be easily predicted.
Key Cost Components of Building an FEC
While planning to build an FEC, the investors should be completely aware of where their money goes to plan a profitable entertainment venue.
Location and Rental Costs
For any business, location has a key role to play in its profitability. Malls with high footfall or near tourist attractions in Dubai have the potential to offer strong business, but they might come with expensive rents. Common locations for an FEC are shopping malls, resorts, tourist attractions and entertainment venues, and mixed-use developments. One thing to look out for is the rentals, and it is your call to choose between visibility and affordability.
Interior Design and Fit-Out
Interior designs are very important to attract your guests. Having themed spaces and a designated colour palette will give an exclusive experience to your guests. A decent interior design and fit-out might cost between AED 300 and AED 800 per square metre. This will include:
Arcade Games and Amusement Equipment
The major part of your investment will be this. Hence, you need to take careful and informed decisions with the help of an arcade machine supplier in the UAE. You can include different types of attractions that will attract all regardless of age.
- Redemption arcade games
- Racing simulators
- Basketball and sports arcade games
- Kiddie rides
- Interactive skill-based games
- VR and simulator attractions
To estimate the average cost of the investment you might have to consider for family entertainment center equipment, it is as follows.
- Small arcade zone: AED 500,000 – AED 1M
- Medium FEC arcade setup: AED 1M – AED 3M
- Large entertainment centres: AED 3M – AED 7M+
Soft Play and Kids Zones
This is essential to bring in the families and young children. You can include climbing structures, ball pits, slides, and tunnels. Having an exclusive toddler play section will add points in the eyes of parents.
Depending on the size and design, the estimated investment for this will be around AED 250,000 to AED 1M.
Cashless Card System and Technology
Modern FECs in Dubai have become cashless and are opting for gaming systems that do not require cash. These systems will include RFID play cards, centralised payment kiosks, integration of ticket redemption systems, and data analytics for game performance.
Estimated cost for implementing a cashless system will be around AED 80,000 to AED 250,000 depending on the scale.
Licensing and Regulatory Approvals
There are several approvals and certifications that are required to open an entertainment venue. Trade licence, approvals from municipalities, clearance from civil defence, and certifications of equipment inspections.
This will totally cost around AED 20,000 to AED 70,000 depending on the scale of the project.
We should also consider a sum for staffing and operation that is required in an FEC, which will have a monthly estimated cost of AED 40,000 to AED 120,000. Along with this, the electricity and utility bills will also be added.
Revenue Potential of Family Entertainment Centres
A well-located FEC in Dubai can generate strong revenue due to high mall traffic and tourism.
Medium-sized FEC with 40–60 machines:
Average daily visitors: 250–400
Average spending per visitor: AED 70 – AED 150
Estimated monthly revenue: AED 500,000 – AED 1.5M
Actual performance depends on location, marketing, and attraction mix.
Why choose Texel as your FEC equipment
supplier?
As an expert arcade machine supplier in the UAE, Texel can help you find the right equipment and games that will suit your business goals and budget. We will help you design, install, and maintain your family entertainment centre that will bring you the footfall and revenue. With high-quality products and services, Texel always helps our customers to comply with all the national and international standards and regulations.
Conclusion
Building a family entertainment centre in Dubai is not easy. It requires a lot of planning, investment strategies, and the right games or equipment to bring in the profit and reputation. With Texel, you can easily achieve this with professional guidance and expert amusement equipment installation services.
Thinking of profitable FEC? Texel is the right choice for you!
FAQ
1. How profitable are family entertainment centres in Dubai?
With high mall footfall and tourism demand, well-managed FECs can generate strong revenue and achieve break-even within 18–36 months.
2. Do FECs require special approvals in Dubai?
Yes. Entertainment venues must obtain trade licences, municipality approvals, and safety certifications for amusement equipment.
3. What is the most profitable attraction in an FEC?
Arcade redemption games, kiddie rides, and interactive skill-based games are among the most profitable attractions in most FECs.