KidZania, the fastest growing kid’s entertainment brand, recognised globally for its unique blend of education and fun, has expanded its footprint with the opening of its first centre in India, in Mumbai. Mumbai will be the 14th operational centre of KidZania in the world as India joins countries like Chile, Indonesia, Japan, Kuwait, Malaysia, Mexico, Portugal, South Korea, Thailand and United Arab Emirates.
Speaking about Kidzania’s impact on tourism, Sanjeev Kumar, Director and CEO, KidZania India stated that for inbound travellers, especially from USA which does not have a Kidzania of its own, the Mumbai outlet will be a great attraction. In addition, NRIs are a major target segment, he revealed, whose children will need engaging activities when they are visiting their families. He further added that the Edutainment Park will work closely with the travel trade to promote and sell the park to customers. “We have tied up with certain GSAs that will be marketing this product to both international and domestic tourists, as well as specific groups.
Highlighting the challenges faced, Kumar revealed that machineries and activities’ supplies such as fire engines and ambulances etc were required for Kidzania, obtaining which required several permissions. Gaining these, he said, were roadblocks. However, he stated that everyone was supportive when they understood that the concept was educational and financially enhancing as well as entertaining.
The total investment for Kidzania was about Rs. 100 crores. Kidzania also plans to open a franchise in Delhi by 2015, following which they plan to add a Bengaluru branch as well.
Shah Rukh Khan, Actor and Co-Promoter of KidZania Mumbai said, “I’m elated to see KidZania open in India and proud to be part of such an empowering concept. It is my belief that KidZania will be the new destination for Indian parents to send their kids to learn and have fun together. India is ready for an edutainment concept like KidZania and I’m hopeful that it will provide new opportunities to the kids to shape their future.”
KidZania is an indoor family edutainment theme park that emulates the workings of a real city, complete with paved roads and cars, city buildings, recognisable establishments and a functioning economy. Ideally suited for children aged four to 14, KidZania Mumbai features 60-plus real-world establishments (Bank, University, Fire Dept, Radio Station and many more) and 80-plus role-playing options (Pilot, Surgeon, Fashion Designer) to help children develop real life skills. Unique to KidZania Mumbai, children can also experience one-
