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15 Thrilling Activities for Dubai Adventure Seekers
Dubai is a city that’s not only known for its breathtaking architecture but also for being a haven of fun and adventure, making it a popular destination for thrill-seekers from all around the world.
Whether you’re interested in extreme sports, exploring the desert or indulging in a unique experience, Dubai has something to offer.
Here are some of the top activities adventure seekers can enjoy in Dubai.
1. Quad biking
If you’re looking for a fun and adrenaline-fueled way to explore the desert, quad biking in Dubai is an activity you won’t want to miss. You can rent a quad bike from a local tour operator and ride through the sand dunes.
You’ll be navigating steep inclines and sharp turns at high speeds during your quad bike ride, so it’s a truly exciting way to experience the desert. Best of all, you don’t need any prior experience to give quad biking a try.
2. Skydiving
Dubai is renowned for its skydiving experiences, which provide a unique and unforgettable way to view the city.
Here, you can take part in tandem skydives from 13,000 feet (3,962 meters) over the iconic Palm Jumeirah, giving you a birds-eye view of the stunning coastline and cityscape.
You’ll have an experienced instructor to guide you, so this thrilling adventure is suitable for both first-time and experienced skydivers.
3. Dune bashing
Dune bashing is another must-try activity for anyone visiting Dubai.
This adrenaline-fueled adventure involves driving a 4x4 vehicle across the sand dunes. You can book a dune bashing tour with a local company, who will provide an experienced driver and vehicle to take you on an unforgettable ride through the desert.
4. Sandboarding
If you’re a fan of snowboarding, then sandboarding in the desert is an activity you won’t want to omit.
Dubai has some of the largest sand dunes in the world, providing a perfect backdrop for both sandboarding pros and neophytes. You can rent a sandboard and carve your way down the dunes, enjoying the rush of adrenaline as you glide down the sandy slopes.
5. Dune buggy tour
Go on an exciting desert safari by booking a dune buggy tour in Dubai.
You have options to go on a solo, duo or group desert exploration venture as single-seater, 2-seater and 4-seater dune buggies are available.
Indulge your adventurous spirit by going up and down sand dunes that can reach as high as 30 feet (about 9 meters). Stop for a while and go sandboarding or collect awesome memories you can share on social media with your own photoshoots in the desert.
6. Hot air balloon ride
A hot air balloon ride over Dubai is a unique way to experience the city from above.
As you soar over the city, you’ll be able to see the stunning Dubai coastline, its impressive skyscrapers, and beautiful desert landscape from a new perspective. This relaxing adventure is perfect for those who want a tame yet exciting activity, with no experience or skill required.
7. Ziplining
Ziplining across Dubai Marina is a thrilling experience that combines adventure with a stunning view.
Here, you’ll be suspended from a harness and sent soaring through the air at speeds averaging 80km/h on a 1-kilometer-long zipline, giving you a fantastic view of the beautiful marina and the surrounding cityscape.
8. Indoor skiing
While Dubai might be in the desert, it doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy winter sports in the emirate.
There’s an indoor ski resort you’ll find in the Mall of the Emirates with five slopes of varying difficulty. You can enjoy a range of winter sports activities here, including skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing, regardless of the weather outside.
9. Water jetpack experience
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, try the water jetpack experience at JBR beach in Dubai.
Water-powered jetpacks will see you being propelled into the air, allowing you to fly up to 15 meters above the sea.
Each session of this unique adventure lasts for 30 minutes. You don’t need any prior experience to give it a try, although you’ll be given professional instruction during the first 10 minutes of your session.
10. Scuba diving
Dubai’s warm waters and stunning coral reefs make it an ideal destination for scuba diving enthusiasts.
With a range of diving sites available, including wrecks, shallow reefs, and other deep-sea locations, Dubai has something for every level of diver.
You can book a diving tour with a local operator, who will provide all the equipment and a guide to help you explore the emirate’s fascinating underwater world.
11. Helicopter tour
To get amazing views of Dubai, why not try a helicopter tour?
These tours take you on a scenic flight over the city, allowing you to see the stunning city skyline, famous human-made islands, and desert landscape from above.
The tours are available in various packages, ranging from 12 to 40 minutes long.
12. Bungee jumping
For thrill-seekers looking for an extreme adventure, bungee jumping is an activity that will get your adrenaline pumping.
Dubai has one of the highest bungee jumps in the world, with a height of 300 feet (91 meters). As long as you meet the minimum age requirement of 14 and have your doctor’s permission, you can experience bungee jumping solo or in tandem with a friend.
13. Desert camping
For a one-of-kind adventure in the desert, why not try camping under the stars?
There are various desert camping experiences available in Dubai, ranging from luxury glamping to more rugged and traditional Bedouin-style camping. You can enjoy a range of activities along with camping out, including camel rides, stargazing, and traditional Bedouin entertainment.
14. Flyboarding
Flyboarding is a water sport that’s growing in popularity in Dubai. It involves strapping yourself to a board that’s propelled by high-pressure water jets, allowing you to fly above the water like a superhero.
You can book a flyboarding experience with a local tour operator, who will provide all the equipment and a guide to help you get started.
15. Indoor skydiving
For those who want to experience the thrill of skydiving without jumping out of a plane, indoor skydiving in a vertical wind tunnel is an activity that’s a definite must-try.
Indoor skydiving facilities in Dubai allow you to experience the sensation of freefall in a safe and controlled environment.
Indulge your adventure-seeking spirit
Dubai is a great destination for everyone, including adventure seekers.
From skydiving and dune bashing to indoor skiing and hot air balloon rides, there are countless thrilling activities you can try in the city.
Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline-fueled adventure or a unique cultural experience, Dubai certainly has it all.