Dubai is famous for its shopping options, amazing food, and great architecture but it is also an extremely popular destination among adventure junkies. So, you can look forward to some thrilling experience on your next trip to Dubai. Here are seven adventure sports that you can try to satisfy the daredevil in you.
1. Dune Bashing
This is one activity you can find all year round. Although Dubai has a wide range of activities to offer in the deserts, dune bashing is the most famous of them all. So, go strap yourself in a Land Cruiser and get ready for a thrill ride as a skilled instructor drives through the dynamic dunes of the desert, picking up speed and stunts to match your adrenalin. Don’t forget to stop in between to take in the picturesque view of the place and of course to click a few pictures for your next Instagram upload.
Price: The price of this activity ranges from 150-400 AED, based on the season and the type of package you avail.
Timings: The activity operates daily between 9 am to 5 pm and 7 pm to 12 midnight. However, the timings may vary during Ramadan and special holidays.
2. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Picture yourself enjoying the amazing view of the place from 1,200 meters up in the air. The golden hues of the desert, wandering camels, the emerald green oases and the mountains look amazing at sunrise.
Price: The price of each ride starts from 1000 AED and may vary depending on your package.
Timings: The timings of the trip depending on the tour operator, but it’s better you choose a time that is around sunrise, the view is best at that time.
3. Bungee Jumping
You can try out bungee jumping in several locations around the city, including the Burj Khalifa. Just make sure you are not over 120 kg.
Price: The price for a single jump is around 290-350 AED but this may vary depending upon the location you choose.
Timings: The timings are usually from 11 am to 5 pm.
4. Scuba Diving
Explore the underwater world of the Arabian Gulf. It’s all right if you don’t know how to dive – you will find many packages that are less risky or you can select a package that offers training for newbies. Go ahead and enjoy being surrounded by more than 65,000 marine creatures. If you are in luck, you can get the chance to see sharks, rays, and shoals as you drift around the ruins.
Price: The price ranges from approximately 150-200 AED depending on the level applied for.
Timings: Most of the companies are open until 6 pm.
5. Sand Surfing
To experience the majesty of the dunes first-hand, try sandboarding. Your journey will start with a comfortable ride to the desert, passing through the picturesque views of sand dunes. Then, after a quick instruction from your guide, you can jump on to your sandboard to slide down the slopes.
Price: Starts from 220 AED but may vary for children and adults.
Timings: Mostly open up until 9 pm. However, it would be better if you choose an evening package to save yourself from the heat.
6. Flyboarding
Flyboarding is the newest extreme water sport that has made the whole world go crazy for it and sure enough, it is a must-try experience in Dubai. This is a unique activity that will let you surf the sky and also swim underwater. Flyboarding is a water activity that takes your quest for adrenaline to the next level.
Price: A 30-minute experience is priced at 300 AED per person. The price varies with the duration of a ride like a 20-minute ride will only cost you around 200 AED.
7. Micro Light Flight
Are you under the impression that paragliding and bungee jumping is the end of all-sky adventures? Then make sure you plan a day for Micro Light Flight trip to experience some serious rush.
It’s an exciting activity where you can accompany professional pilots for a ride over the desert at a speed of 100 km per hour. It is also a great chance to explore the beauty of Dubai.
Price: The approximate price range is 250–400 AED. It may vary from operator to operator.
Timings: The activity is open all day long but it’s best to fly during the late evenings and witness the stunning sunset.
Conclusion
So, choose your favorite adventure sport for your upcoming trip to Dubai. If you do not have a favorite, you can try all of them!
Also, read A shopper's guide to Dubai.
Note: This article was originally published by me at Livejournal and Quora.