Globally famous for its skyscrapers, sand islands built in the shape of the world map, luxury hotels, with desert on one side and striking beaches on the other side, and many more things, Dubai has amazed the world in every aspect. Dubai is deservingly renowned for its beauty, but it offers much more beyond its glitz and luxuries. In the last couple of years, Dubai has become a growing sensation when it comes to adventurous sports. Each sport guarantees to pump up your adrenaline and offer an experience of a lifetime.
Dubai is home to many adventure aspirants, and there are many locations in Dubai where you can experience the thrills. In Dubai, you can find a range of some of the most extreme and thrilling adventure sports that will give you the perfect kick to remember your visit. Dubai offers limitless opportunities for action on land, at sea, or in the air.
Dubai’s Thrilling Desert Adventures
Here is the list of top 25 thrilling adventure sports in Dubai:
1. Sky Diving :
The most exhilarating experience among Dubai adventure activities is Sky Diving over the Palm Jumeirah. You can jump from a helicopter at 14,000 feet and feel the adrenaline rush through your veins. However, being rather costly, it gives a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The fee includes a video to help you remember every moment you spend in the sky. The view from up there is breathtaking. As you descend, you can see ‘The Atlantis’, ‘The Burj Khalifa’, and other chief landmarks along with The Palm.
BMI Requirements: Male – You must be above 18 years old, weigh no more than 100 kg, and have a body mass index (BMI) of 30 maximum to participate.
Female – You must be above 18, weigh 90 kg or less, and have a body mass index (BMI) of 27.5 maximum.
Cost: The cost for a full altitude jump is around 2500 AED. Other services, such as helmet videos, outside videos, photographs, etc. are charged separately.
Best Time to Visit: Dubai in October brings relief from the summer waves. The favorable weather continues to April, when skies are clear and strolling outdoors is pleasant.
Location: Skydive Dubai, Palm Jumeirah and Desert Campus.
2. Hummer Dubai Desert Safari :
The Hummer desert safari is one of the most exciting adventures in Dubai, and it provides fun for the entire family. This activity is also known as dune bashing where you will be strapped onto the seats of a Hummer while it takes you on a rollercoaster ride over the sand dunes. The ride is smooth, and your driver-guide does a great job of pulling the car over and down the height, making the dune bashing Dubai encounter an unforgettable experience for you.
Cost: Prices may vary from 150 to 350 AED per person.
Best Time to Visit: November to March for pleasant weather.
Location: Desert safaris depart from various pick-up locations in Dubai.
3. Quad Biking in Dubai Desert :
Another exhilarating activity that you can enjoy during a desert safari tour in Dubai is quad biking. This activity must undeniably be on the bucket list for those who fancy riding or driving. Quad biking in Dubai requires you to stick to certain guiding principle of rough terrain driving that the trainers will teach you.
These tough, four-wheelers are amusing fun way of getting out into the actual terrain, away from usual routes and crowds of visitors. With appropriate safety measures in place, quad biking in Dubai is one of the most fun, and family-friendly experiences available.
Cost: It costs around 300 to 450 AED for a 1-hour ride.
Best Time to Visit: October to April, when the temperatures are milder.
Location: Various desert locations near Dubai.
4. Dubai Sandboarding :
Sandboarding in the desert is similar to snowboarding in the mountains. Just like the hills covered in snow, natural downy inclines of land that allow a board to slide down with ample speed under the gravity can only be found in the tall sand dunes in the desert. You get to don casual clothing and footwear, but do not let the chilled-out clobber fool you into thinking it’s a happy-go-lucky sport. Just pick up a smooth-surfaced board, fasten your boots to it, slide down the sand dunes, and get an experience like you are flying in space like a silver surfer.
Cost: Typically included in desert safari packages.
Best Time to Visit: Cooler months from November to March.
Location: Part of desert safari experiences.
5. Dune Buggy Riding :
One more dune-added activity which has gained tourist’s attention is dune buggy riding. Dune buggies, designed to be driven off the pitch and on the rough ground, dune buggies are a magnificently unique and exciting way to travel in the desert. The best part of this ride is that you can drive the vehicle in any direction without the concern of getting hurt, as the shielding cage provides safety and protection. What’s the fun if you haven’t rolled or crashed your buggy on the soft and smooth sand of Dubai’s desert?
Cost: It costs approximately 500 to 700 AED for a buggy ride.
Best Time to Visit: Cooler months, from October to April.
Location: Desert locations near Dubai.
6. Fat Tyre Biking :
Another unique activity to experience in Dubai is fat tyre biking. It is one of the extreme adventure sports as you can discover the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve on fat bikes, particularly designed for rugged, formerly off-limit landscapes, and admire the desert region’s local flora and fauna. There is no limit to where you can go with a fat bike, the only limit is your imagination. It is a fun activity for cyclists of all skill levels.
Cost: Rental prices vary, approximately 50 to 150 AED per hour.
Best Time to Visit: Winter months for comfortable biking.
Location: Biking trails are in Hatta and other desert areas.
7. Dubai Flyboarding :
Besides incomparable fun on sand, Dubai’s water activities are equally adventurous. Fly Boarding has recently gained global recognition, and is one of the best adventure activities you can try in Dubai. It has a board with a hose connected to a jet ski engine. The engine pumps water out of the hose at a huge force, permitting one to propel up to 10-12 meters in the air. This a great chance for people to fly into the sky with a safe place to land in the clear waters of the Arabian Gulf. In addition, Dubai has previously held the World Cup in the city, seeing the sport’s popularity.
Cost: It costs around 300 to 500 AED for a 20 to 30-minute session.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round but more enjoyable in cooler months.
Location: Various water sports centres along the coast of Dubai.
8. Shark Diving :
One of the most unique experiences that you must not miss is diving with the sharks and other 33,000 marine animals in the Dubai Aquarium. Come face-to-face with some of the most attractive marine predators, at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. The price is inclusive of dive gear rental, a dive guide at a ratio of 2:1, DAN diver insurance (Represented in the UAE by Oman Insurance PSC), and a certificate of participation. At the end of your diving experience, you will be given a free ticket to the Underwater Zoo.
Cost: Varies, but approximately 750 AED for a cage dive experience.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with consistent water temperatures.
Location: Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Dubai Mall.
Where to do the Bookings: To experience shark diving at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, you can make reservations directly through their official website or visit in person.
9. Deep Sea Fishing :
It is one of the most enjoyed water adventure sports you can witness while in Dubai. From the previous decade, there has been an increase in the number of tourists participating in deep-sea fishing for the thrill of going to the deep sea and fishing for some unusual fishes, cooking them on the yacht, and having an incredible meal. Kingfish, Barracuda, Cobias, Grouper, Sultan Ibrahim, Bluefin tuna, and Hamour are the favorite fishes to catch in the Persian Gulf.
Cost: Charter prices vary but typically start at around 800 AED for a half-day trip.
Best Time to Visit: October to May for ideal fishing conditions.
Location: Depart from Dubai Marina or nearby fishing locations.
10. Hot Air Ballooning :
These rides are considered one of those Dubai adventure activities that one must embark on to realize how mind-blowing they are. You can enjoy a hot air balloon ride in many cities across the world, but you must be thinking – what is special about a hot air balloon ride in Dubai? It is indeed a unique and blissful experience as you can have an incredible view of the fantastic city and witness some of Dubai’s key structures. We suggest taking an early morning ride and witnessing a spectacular view of the rising Sun, giving you the feeling that it has risen up from the desert within.
Cost: It costs approximately 1,000 to 1,200 AED per person.
Best Time to Visit: October to April for pleasant weather and clear skies.
Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and other desert areas.
11. Bungee Jumping:
Feel the adrenaline rush as you dive toward the ground and spring back up. Bungee jumping is an extreme sport where participants leap from a high platform or structure with a secured bungee cord attached to their ankles. Feel the adrenaline rush as you dive toward the ground and spring back up.
Cost: Approximately 500 to 600 AED.
Best Time to Visit: October to April.
Location: Gravity Zone, Dubai Autodrome.
Where to Book Tickets: Tickets can be booked directly through Gravity Zone’s website.
12. Zip Lining:
Zip across Dubai’s stunning cityscape or soar above the breathtaking Dubai Fountain on the XLine, an urban zip line adventure that offers amazing views of the city from above.
Cost: Around 200 to 300 AED.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but best in the cooler months.
Location: XLine Dubai Marina, Jebel Jais, Ski Dubai, Aventura Park
Where to Book Tickets: Tickets can be purchased online through the official XDubai website.
13.Wakeboarding:
Enjoy the rush of gliding across the water on a wakeboard. It combines elements of water skiing, snowboarding, and surfing, allowing riders to perform tricks and jumps on the water. It is perfect for beginners and experienced riders.
Cost: Prices vary from approximately 200 to 300 AED per hour.
Best Time to Visit: Cooler months from November to March.
Location: Various water sports centers and marinas in Dubai.
14. Dubai Parasailing:
Soar above the pristine waters of Dubai’s beaches while securely harnessed to a parachute. As the boat speeds up, you are lifted into the air, offering a unique perspective of the coastline and the open sea. The views from above are truly captivating.
Cost: Around 200 to 350 AED for a single ride.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, but more enjoyable in cooler months.
Location: Various beaches in Dubai, including JBR and Kite Beach.
15. Sea Breacher Riding:
Take a ride in the Sea Breacher, a semi-submersible watercraft that resembles a shark. This adventure allows riders to experience high-speed maneuvers, dives, and jumps, all while enjoying stunning views of Dubai’s waterfront.
Cost: Approximately 600 to 700 AED for a 20 to 30-minute ride.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, with consistent water temperatures.
Location: Dubai International Marine Club or Jumeirah Beach.
16. Wind Surfing:
Navigate the winds and waves of the Arabian Gulf with a windsurfing adventure. It is a water sport that combines elements of surfing and sailing. Participants stand on a board with an attached sail and use the wind to propel themselves across the water.
Cost: Rental prices vary, approximately 100 to 200 AED per hour.
Best Time to Visit: Cooler months from November to March.
Location: Water sports centres in Dubai, like Kite Beach.
17. Paragliding:
You may experience this thrill in Dubai by taking a short journey to Ras Al Khaimah to paraglide. Fly over the sky and enjoy spectacular views of the mountains and beaches.
Cost: Around 1,000 to 1,200 AED for a tandem flight.
Best Time to Visit: Cooler months, from October to April.
Location: Ras Al Khaimah, approximately 90 minutes from Dubai.
Where to Book Tickets: Book through paragliding operators in Ras Al Khaimah.
18. Kite Surfing:
Harness the power of the wind and waves while gliding across the water with a kiteboard. Participants use a large kite to harness the power of the wind, allowing them to glide across the water and perform aerial tricks.
Cost: Rental prices vary, approximately 200 to 350 AED per hour.
Best Time to Visit: Windy season from October to March.
Location: Kite Beach, Jumeirah Beach
19. Indoor Skydiving:
Experience the sensation of a free fall without jumping from an aircraft. Participants enter a vertical wind tunnel, which generates powerful upward air currents, allowing them to float and experience the thrill of skydiving.
Cost: Around 200 to 300 AED.
Best Time to Visit: Year-round, regardless of weather conditions.
Location: iFLY Dubai, City Centre Mirdif.
Where to Book Tickets: Reservations can be made through the official iFLY Dubai website.
20. Snorkeling:
Embark on an underwater adventure and explore the fascinating marine life of Dubai while snorkeling. Witness vibrant marine life and pristine coral reefs on guided snorkeling tours.
Cost: Typically included in snorkeling tour packages.
Best Time to Visit: Cooler months, from November to April.
Location: The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, Snoopy Island.
21. Paddle Boarding:
Paddle boarding involves standing or kneeling on a large, stable board and using a paddle to navigate through calm waters. It offers a serene and enjoyable way to explore Dubai’s coastlines.
Cost: Rental prices vary, around 50 to 100 AED per hour.
Best Time to Visit: Paddle boarding can be enjoyed year-round, but the cooler months from November to April provide more comfortable weather.
Location: Popular paddle boarding locations include Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and JBR Beach.
22. Dubai Seaplane Flight:
A Dubai seaplane flight offers a unique perspective of the city’s stunning skyline and iconic landmarks. Soar above the Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa, and more for a truly breathtaking experience.
Cost: Seaplane tour prices range from 1,000 to 2,000 AED per person.
Best Time to Visit: Seaplane flights can be enjoyed year-round. Clear skies and mild temperatures make the cooler months from October to April particularly pleasant.
Location: Seaplane tours depart from Dubai Creek, Jebel Ali
23. Microlighting:
Microlighting allows you to take to the skies in a small, lightweight aircraft with an experienced pilot. It offers an exhilarating and scenic way to explore Dubai’s landscapes.
Cost: Microlighting experiences start at approximately 500 AED for a session.
Best Time to Visit: Microlighting is ideal during the cooler months, from November to April.
Location: Microlight flights are available in various desert locations near Dubai.
24. Go-Kart Racing:
Go-kart racing enthusiasts in Dubai may experience the exhilaration of racing on specially designed circuits. These adventures are ideal for a fast-paced outing with your loved ones.
Cost: Go-karting prices range from 50 to 150 AED per session.
Best Time to Visit: Go-karting can be enjoyed year-round.
Location: Dubai Kartdrome
25. Scuba Diving:
Scuba diving in Dubai is an exciting adventure that showcases a world of vibrant marine life and magnificent coral reefs beneath the Arabian Gulf’s crystal-clear waters. Dubai provides a variety of diving opportunities for divers of different skill levels.
Cost in AED: The cost varies depending on factors such as the type of dive, duration, and whether you require equipment rental or are using your own gear. Dives start at around 300 to 500 AED.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time for scuba diving in Dubai is during the cooler months, from October to May.
Location: The World Islands, Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Important Points to Keep in Mind for Adventurous Sports in Dubai
- Booking in advance is often recommended for most of these activities.
- You can count on our convenient and user-friendly portal for hassle-free booking of your favorite water adventures
- Consider the age and health restrictions for each activity.
- Follow the safety guidelines and instructions provided by the activity operators.
- Dress appropriately for the specific activity
- Remember to bring sunscreen and water.
- Many of these activities are more enjoyable during the cooler months in Dubai.
- Be aware of the exact location or meeting point for each adventure activity to avoid any confusion.
Some other extreme adventure sports activities to experience in Dubai are scuba diving, bungee jumping, Dubai seaplane touring, snorkeling, zip lining, dirt biking, speed boat riding, indoor skydiving, and many more. It is important to note that prices and availability may change over time, so it is always a good idea to check with the operators for the most up-to-date information before planning your adventure in Dubai.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1) Is it safe to participate in adventure sports in Dubai?
Yes, adventure sports in Dubai are generally safe when conducted by licensed and reputable operators who prioritize safety measures. Ensure you follow all provided instructions and use safety equipment as directed.
2) Do I need any prior experience to try these activities?
Most adventure sports in Dubai offer options for beginners, and expert instructors are often available to provide guidance and ensure your safety. Prior experience is not typically required.
3) Are there weight or height restrictions for these activities?
Some activities, like parasailing and zip lining, may have weight or height restrictions for safety reasons. It’s essential to check with the specific operator to confirm their requirements.
4) What should I wear and bring for these adventure sports?
The attire and items needed can vary depending on the activity. Wear comfortable clothing, swimwear for water-based activities, and closed-toe shoes for desert activities. Sunscreen, water, and a hat are essential.
5) What happens in the event of bad weather conditions during outdoor adventure sports in Dubai?
Outdoor adventure sports events may be postponed or cancelled due to bad weather conditions. In such circumstances, operators prioritize safety and may provide alternatives or refunds.