Education and Artificial Intelligence: Two Interconnected Paths in the UAE

Leo & Loona, a rapidly expanding edutainment brand in the UAE, is making a notable entry into Bahrain. In under two years, this local concept has evolved from a single outlet to a successful multi-location brand, drawing families and investors with its innovative blend of play and education. Currently operating three successful venues in the UAE, the brand has plans to extend further throughout the GCC, revolutionizing family entertainment in the region.

The upcoming international location will debut at Avenues Bahrain in early 2026, forged in collaboration with Mabanee, a prominent real estate developer in the area. Covering 2,360 square meters, the new site will represent the most extensive family entertainment option at Avenues Bahrain, highlighting a pivotal moment in Leo & Loona’s expansion strategy.

Since launching at Dubai Festival City Mall, Leo & Loona has diversified into Yas Mall and Dalma Mall in Abu Dhabi, building a dedicated customer base. Currently, repeat visitors constitute 60% of total traffic—a significant increase from just 20% in the brand’s inaugural year—demonstrating high levels of customer satisfaction and loyalty. The edutainment sector in the region is on a positive growth path, with projections estimating that the MENA family entertainment market will surpass $1.68 billion by 2027, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of over 13.3%.

What sets Leo & Loona apart is its responsiveness to the needs of contemporary families. Modern parents desire more than just entertainment; they seek experiences that foster creativity, confidence, and values. The brand achieves this through well-crafted environments, engaging educational areas, and play concepts that promote children’s emotional and social growth.

“This launch marks not only a significant achievement for Leo & Loona in the GCC but also serves as a bold statement,” remarked Elizaveta Rossiiskaia, GCC manager at Leo & Loona. “Our concept is genuinely unique, not merely in Bahrain or the Gulf, but worldwide. Leo & Loona transcends a typical entertainment venue for kids; it is designed as a family-centric project aimed at fulfilling the needs of both children and their parents. Our parks are spaces where families connect, children learn and develop in a secure and enriching atmosphere, and parents can unwind while enjoying quality food and socializing with friends or family.”

“Every park we create is a bespoke space that involves extensive personal engagement from our leadership team, focusing on everything from layout to specialized play experiences,” Rossiiskaia continued. “The quality, design, and diversity of our edutainment areas are top-notch, as consistently affirmed by our visitors, many of whom express there is nothing quite like this in their localities. Expanding into Bahrain represents a proud advancement for us, and collaborating with a developer who shares our ideals of community and excellence adds even greater significance. We are eager to continue transforming the concept of modern family spaces, one venue at a time.”

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The swift ascent of Leo & Loona has garnered significant recognition within the industry. In 2025, it was awarded titles for the Best Family Attraction in the Middle East and Best Family Destination in the UAE by the International Travel Awards—awards typically bestowed upon well-established companies. The Arabian Best of the Best Awards acknowledged Leo & Loona in the same categories, emphasizing its contribution to enhancing the edutainment landscape in the region.

With Bahrain designated as its initial international venue and additional GCC expansions anticipated, Leo & Loona is not only expanding its footprint but also transforming the future of family entertainment across the Middle East.

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