Dubai, often associated with its stunning skyscrapers and luxury lifestyle, is also a haven for outdoor adventurers seeking thrilling experiences amidst its unique desert and coastal landscapes. Beyond the glitz and glamour, this city offers a range of exciting activities that cater to the adventurer’s spirit. There are a few more weeks of delightful weather, before the temperatures so again, keeping us posted on the indoors or waiting for the sun to set before we get out for air. With that, here’s a quick list of activities you can still get up to for little adventure in Dubai, while the weather is still delightful…
- Experience the heart of Arabia by taking on the desert. The quintessential tourism experience, but equally one that’s great to gather family and friends in the outdoors. The Dubai desert is a vast, golden playground for thrill-seekers. A desert safari is a must-do adventure, offering dune bashing in powerful 4×4 vehicles, sandboarding, and a chance to ride camels. Adventurers can expect an adrenaline rush as they conquer the ever-shifting sand dunes, all while witnessing the mesmerizing desert sunset.
Play dress up in traditional Emirati dress while in a desert camp, get that instagrammable shot with a falcon perched on your forearm, or become mesmerised by the movements of belly dancers or the “Tanoura” – an Egyptian folk dance performed by a male dancer clad in a weighted dress adorned with lights, or settle down to enjoy the stillness of stargazing. The desert safari experience is an unmissable itinerary item when visiting Dubai, or if in need of experiencing time out in the outdoors for a few hours.
2. Skydiving over the Palm Jumeirah: Dare to touch the sky and freefall over Dubai from above? For those who crave the ultimate adrenaline rush, skydiving over the iconic Palm Jumeirah Island is a breathtaking experience. This one is for the more brazen as adventurers take the courageous leap from a plane at 13,000 feet, feeling the wind rush past them as they descend with a bird’s-eye view of the city’s extraordinary skyline and the pristine coastline.
3. Ride the waves and the wind at Kite Beach: Located along the Jumeirah coastline, Kite Beach is a hub for water sports enthusiasts. Here, novices and water-loving adventurers can engage in kitesurfing and paddleboarding. The strong, consistent winds make it an ideal spot for kiteboarding, and beginners can also take lessons. Kite Beach offers a fusion of thrill and tranquility, with nearby eateries to wind down over a meal with friends and family.
4. Escape to nature’s serenity with a hike up Hatta’s Mountain Trails: Just a short drive from Dubai, the Hatta Mountain area offers a stark contrast to the city’s urban landscape. Adventurers can explore the rugged trails on foot, offering panoramic views of mountains, lakes, and unique rock formations. The Hatta Dam is a prime spot for kayaking or paddle boating, adding to the adventure or forming a perfect backdrop for a little outdoor relaxation.
5. Pedal through the desert oasis with a bike ride to Al Qudra Lakes. This makes for a perfect excursion for the athletically inclined, as a full cycle can scale more than 30km and be quite arduous. But if it’s something a little more leisurely you are after, Al Qudra Lakes is an unexpected gem in the desert, boasting a series of man-made lakes and a network of cycling tracks. Cyclists can traverse the picturesque desert landscape, spotting wildlife and taking in the serene beauty of the surroundings. A cycling trip here offers both adventure and a chance for reflection. Al Qudra Lakes is also perfect for picnicking away from the city’s concrete jungle.
6. Ever heard of Sandboarding in the Big Red: If you’re a snowboarder missing the slopes, head to any one of Dubai’s desert big red dunes. Sandboarding is a thrilling adventure where you can glide down the steep dunes as you would on snow, experiencing the rush of sliding on a different kind of powder – sand. Al Badayer on the Hatta-Oman Road and heading out a little further towards Sharjah’s Fossil Rock areas will offer you great options to take on a sand dune of your choice.
7. Mountain Biking in Hajar Mountains: Who doesn’t want to conquer the UAE rugged terrain? Perhaps this is an easier feat for the adventurers that like to take on a challenge by tackling the Hajar Mountains, the absolute playground for mountain biking enthusiasts. Adventurers can expect daunting trails with steep climbs and descents, rugged terrain, and breathtaking views. It’s an adrenaline-pumping experience that combines physical endurance with the beauty of nature.
8. Why not go deep-sea Fishing in the Arabian Gulf: Reel in the big catch, or simply enjoy a day out on the open sea with a deep-sea fishing adventure in the Arabian Gulf. Expect to hook prized catches like Kingfish and Barracuda as you venture into the deep waters, accompanied by experienced captains and top-notch equipment.
9. Go a little further for rock climbing in Ras Al Khaimah: Ascend the rugged cliffs of Ras Al Khaimah, a short drive from Dubai, which offers excellent rock-climbing opportunities. One can climb natural limestone crags, with varying levels of difficulty in this exhilarating test of physical and mental strength, all while surrounded by stunning natural beauty.
10. Live out your need for speed at Dubai Autodrome: For those who have a need for speed, the Dubai Autodrome is the place to be. Adventurers can try their hand at go-karting or opt for the high-speed thrill of driving a race car on a professional circuit, providing an experience that’s both exhilarating and unforgettable.
Dubai’s diverse landscape and commitment to adventure tourism ensure that outdoor enthusiasts have ample opportunities to seek adventure amidst this modern metropolis. Whether you’re into sand, sea, sky, or mountains, Dubai’s outdoor adventures offer a unique blend of thrill and awe-inspiring natural beauty. So why not carve out time to get out for some outdoor fun while the weather still permits! Top months for outdoor adventure fall anywhere from November to April, with some adventure parks only opening seasonally in line with the temperatures.
