Two seasons in one day: Combine a beach holiday with skiing in Dubai
Skiing in Dubai
One of the largest indoor ski centres in the world, Ski Dubai is located in the Mall of the Emirates in Dubai’s desert city.
Skiing in Dubai
The huge complex, which measures 22,500 square metres, has five ski slopes which vary in difficulty. Catch the chairlift to the top of a hill where you can ski or snowboard all the way to the bottom.
The temperature at Ski Dubai is at a constant -4C to be sure to wear layers. The snow is made by spraying a mist of water and compressed air, so it has the appearance and feel of ‘real’ snow. Other indoor ski slopes use artificial snow, made from resins.
Cost
A two-hour open skiing or snowboarding session at Ski Dubai costs AED 250 (£54). It is open to experienced skiers and snowboarders (skill level 2+). This minimum ski level means being able to stop safely, control speed, link turns and use lifts.
The price includes two hours’ of access to the chair and drag lifts, ski/snowboard boots, helmets, skis and snowboards, trousers and jackets and a free locker. Guests between ages 3-14 must be accompanied by an adult, holding a valid ticket.
A range of one-hour ski/snowboard lessons: private lessons for AED595 (£128) or group lessons AED180 (£39).
Non-skiers
If you don’t fancy skiing, you can spend the day playing in the snow! You can get a separate snowpark ticket where you can build a snowman, ride the twin-track bobsled, explore a snow cavern and take frozen zip-line.
There’s also a tubing run, snow bumpers, climbing wall, and the playground. After a busy day, chill at the Ice Bar. The centre is also home to real penguins which are let out of their enclosure a number of times a day. Families can book tickets and slots in advance.
The ski centre is surrounded by a cluster of pretty chalets and restaurants. Other activities in the shopping mall, include a range of dining options, shops as well as the VOX Cinemas.