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For those who are always looking for the next big rush, the UAE offers more options than any one person can handle. Whether you’re into diving in the Arabian Gulf or exploring the voluminous sand dunes on the back of a camel, there is plenty of engagement for everyone in Dubai. So if you’re looking for an exciting, exotic, and engaging vacation spot, be sure to add Dubai to your list.

Not in any particular order, we have compiled the list of adventure and adrenaline-pumping activities in Dubai. Peruse this list and get yourself prepared for the vacation of a lifetime.

Adventure Activities In Dubai

1. Skydiving

For the ultimate adrenaline rush, experience the thrill of freefall from a plane at 2 dropzones, one over the iconic Palm Jumeirah island at the heart of the city and the other over the desert sands, located 35Km away. More than the thrill of the freefall, you get to marvel at the eagle-eye view of one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Skydiving is a must-do if you are an adventure junkie!

Some pertinent requirements need to be met before you skydive. Ensure you check their official website before planning one.

• Cost: AED 2299 for the Palm dropzone, AED 1799 for the desert dropzone
• Timings: Refer to the “location and hours of operation” tab from the official website as it is updated frequently.

2. Deep Dive Dubai

Dive all 365 days in the world’s deepest swimming pool (60 m) with 56 underwater cameras covering the pool. Snorkel the sunken underwater city constructed with 14 million liters of water, maintained at 30 ℃ along with state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems that create a variety of underwater moods. 

They offer different programs based that are suitable and tailored to your proficiency as a beginner or an experienced professional.

• Cost: Starts from AED 1800
• Timings: Every day from 9 AM to 6 PM

3. Sky View Edge Walk

Walk outside of a skyscraper that is about 52 stories high, along the edge, and feel the breeze while enjoying the views of Downtown Dubai and the mighty Burj Khalifa, all safely and securely. 

At 219.5 m, the 25 m long glass walk connects the towers of the Address View Twin Hotel and the completely transparent glass slide that drops you from the 53rd floor to a story below. For brave hearts and non-acrophobia, this 3-in-1 bundle one-of-a-kind experience is for you.

• Cost: AED 190, includes access to three activities such as 20 min edge walk, a Sky view observatory, and one ride at the glass slide. AED 25 for each additional slide. Bookings can be done online.
• Timings: 12 PM to 8:30 PM

4. Aqua Fun, JBR Beach

Unlimited fun is possible at the World’s Largest Inflatable Water Park with a massive fun-filled 42,400 sq. m area that can host 1000 people at the same time. Challenge yourself, your friends, and your families to overcome 110+ obstacles while capturing all the funny unforgettable memories on the gulf shore.

Although a life jacket is provided, swimming is a must-know.

• Cost: All-day pass at AED 155. Book online now.
• Timings: Every day from 9 AM until the sun sets

Holds Guinness World record for the formation of I <3 EXPO 2020 DUBAI when read from above. Additionally, you get to admire the sunset and fireworks with the views of Ain Dubai, the largest Ferris wheel in the world.

5. Water Sports

You name it, Dubai has it. Dubai showcases all of the possible and impossible water sports there can be. Choose from the variety of water sports activities you wish to enjoy from numerous companies along the different shores and prime hotspots of Dubai. 

• Jet Skiing
• Flyboarding
• Donut/ Banana ride
• Stand-up paddle boarding
• Wakeboarding & knee boarding
• Yacht or boat ride
• Kayaking
• Seabreacher, SeaBreacher Diving Club, and Watersports
• Kite surfing
• Parasailing
• Snorkeling
• Scuba diving at Atlantis Dive center

And so much more.

6. Snow Cinema

Set in Ski Dubai’s snowy landscape, watch the latest blockbusters with the VOX cinema’s best quality & sound in the coolest cinematic environment with cozy blankets and heaters to chill and freshly made popcorn to munch on.

• Cost: AED 200 for 2 persons, gloves & outfits included with 1 Hot chocolate & popcorn
• Timings: All year round. Click here for booking tickets.

7. Desert Safari

Another great way to explore the desert is by gliding along the sand dunes. Desert Safari is one of the most popular adventure activities among the people of the UAE. While opting for the desert safari package, you can also choose to go on a camel ride, try sandboarding, or quad biking, or just gawk at the beautiful desert scenery during golden hours and have a bbq dinner in the middle of a desert.

• Cost: Depends on the package and the company that you choose 
• Duration: Half a day. Recommended going during the sunset.

8. Water Parks

To entertain people of all age groups, water parks are designed from massive slides to lazy river rides, pools, and a lot of shallow depth and interesting activities for children. The best waterparks in Dubai include:

• Wild wadi
• Laguna water park
• Atlantis Aquaventure
• Al Montazah park
• Legoland water park

Before booking, make sure to read tips on money saving in Dubai as a tourist.

9. Ice Skating

Regardless of beginner or expert, escape the summer heat by skating in this Olympic-sized ice rink located at the heart of the Dubai Mall. They also offer to coach for all age groups and abilities. Different themes like peak and DJ nights are available at different time slots.

• Cost: General admission at AED 85 for 90 minutes. gloves, hockey sticks, helmet, supporting aid, and any add-ons cost extra. Click here to book your tickets online.
• Timings: Monday to Friday – 10 AM – 10 PM, Saturday and Sunday – 10 AM – 12 AM

Note: Children under 100 cm should be accompanied by an adult at all times.

10. Hiking At Hatta

Are you under the impression that Dubai is only a desert? Nope. It has other landscapes too. Surrounded by the Hajar mountains, trek or cycle along the wadis and conquer the peaks of Dubai’s largest national park, bordering Oman. You can ride on horses, paraglide and dine on a BBQ dinner at the foothills of the mountains.

Other adventure activities in the Hatta Wadi Hub include zorbing, tube sliding, kayaking, archery, ax throwing, wall climbing, and zorbing.

For information on the hiking route map, stay options, restaurants, guided tours, and complete details about Hatta, visit their official website.

11. The Storm Coaster

Situated at the Dubai hills mall, pump your endorphins by taking a ride on the world’s fastest indoor roller coaster. You can also opt for eleven other adventure rides at the adventure park for a combo deal. Reserve your ride online.

• Cost: AED 65 for a 2.5-minute single ride. The combo deal which includes All 11 rides + One Single storm coaster Ride + 1 Hour at Jump Park (13 Admissions) starts at AED 249.
• Timings: 10 AM – 12 AM, open on all days

Note: Minimum height requirement for the storm coaster is 130 cm.

12. Gyrocopter Flight Ride

Take a private 2-seat unique open aircraft over Dubai’s iconic landmarks including the Dubai Marina coastline, Dubai Eye (the world’s largest Ferris wheel), Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis Hotel, World Islands, and the spectacular Burj Al Arab. Located at Skydive Dubai’s Palm Dropzone location, next to Dubai Marina, check their official website if you have met the requirements before confirming your booking.

• Cost: AED 999 for a 20 minute ride, pics & edited videos complementary. All UAE residents get a 20% discount.
• Timings: Different slots are available between 6:30 AM and 8 AM

13. X-Line Ziplining At X-Dubai

Accelerate at the speed of up to 80 KMPH in mere seconds at a height of 170 meters from Amwaj towers to the Dubai Mall. Fly like a superman above the skyscrapers for about 1 Km with the views of Dubai Marina. Book your tickets online and zipline the world’s longest urban zipline.

• Cost: AED 650 for adults from 17-65 years of age, AED 499 for kids between 12-16 years of age. The price includes pictures and edited videos of the ride.
• Timings: 9:20 AM – 6:40 PM everyday

Note: Weight should be between 45 and 100 Kg.

14. Flying Cup Dubai

A unique dining experience at the height of 40 m above for 30 mins. With 4 different offers on snacks and refreshments, buckle up and enjoy your feet dangling in the skies of JBR beach. Book your tickets online from their official website.

• Timings: 10 AM – 12 AM on all days
• Cost: Starts from AED 60 (for the ride only). Additional costs for refreshments & snacks.

15. iFly Dubai

A thrilling one-on-one experience with a personal instructor to taste what skydivers enjoy during the freefall portion of their skydiving. Located in the City Centre Mirdif, you can now combine your indoor flight with a VR experience of real skydiving over the palm island for just AED 350. Reserve your seats online.

• Timings: Monday to Thursday- 12 PM to 9 PM, Friday & Sunday – 12 PM to 10 PM, Saturday – 12 PM to 11 PM
• Cost: 149 AED, including a training session, 2 flights, and gears

16. Theme Parks

Based on different themes, enjoy live entertainment with exciting rides, jaw-dropping shows with unlimited fun and hang out for an entire day. These theme parks are ideal for people of all age groups.

• IMG World Of Adventure – 7-themed zones largest theme park in Dubai. The general admission is at AED 335.
• Motiongate, Hollywood-inspired – home to the world’s fastest spinning roller coaster known as “Now you see me: high roller”. The prices start from AED 198.
• Legoland, LEGO blocked themed. The price starts from AED 295.
• Bollywood park, Bollywood-themed. One-day park pass starts from AED 295.

17. Swim With Dolphins

The Dubai Dolphinarium and the Dolphin Bay at the Atlantis Dubai offer different sessions for kids and adults to enjoy dorsal fin tow, belly ride, kiss, and dance with these cute little mammals. You will get educated on their behaviors, food habits, etc. Not just with the dolphins, but you can also meet and greet, dip, and play with a sea lion.

All dolphin experiences in Atlantis include a FREE ticket to the Aquaventure water park, the world’s largest waterpark for the same day. Special discounts for Dubai residents and people who stay in the resort. 

• Cost: starts from AED 630
• Timings: 10 AM – 7:30 PM for Dubai Dolphinarium, 9:30 AM – 6 PM for Dolphin 

18. Hot Air Balloon

Float over the desert in a hot air balloon and soak in the stunning views of the first rays of the sun! Seek the thrill of this unforgettable experience combined with other desert adventure activities on the same day. The rides are resumed during the summer months of June and August.

• Cost: Starts from AED 1100 from Hot Air Balloon Dubai and AED 1350 from Balloon Adventures Dubai. The prices include free pick up and drop from Dubai.
• Duration: Half morning

19. VR Park

Dubai’s ultimate augmented and virtual reality park, being the world’s largest indoor VR park is situated in the Dubai mall. With over 30 exhilarating experiences, arcade games and soft play areas for the little ones will surely excite both the young and the young at heart.

• Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM on weekdays, until 12 AM on weekends.
• Cost: Free entry. Buy credits and bonuses from AED 200
• Contact: 800(38224)-6255

20. Aventura Parks

Spanning over 35,000 sq. m of Ghaf tree forests, Aventura Park fosters learning through play. Located inside Mushrif park, with about 24 ziplines, 80 obstacles, and 5 unique circuits color-coded based on height, difficulty, and age, you can spend a minimum of 3 hours challenging yourself and your team to accomplish the task and it is the perfect location to push yourself and your friends to move away from their comfort zones.

• Cost: AED 10 for park visitors with no games. Depending on the zones, the prices start from AED 45. For a detailed view of pricing, click here.
• Timings: 5 PM to midnight, closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

21. Trampoline Parks

Spread across different malls of Dubai, trampoline parks are lit with numerous activities in a closed arena. Regardless of the weather being hot or cold, burn the extra fat and unleash your energy by jumping joyously on the trampoline.

A few of the parks include Bounce (5 branches in UAE), Flip Out, Tramp Extreme, Jump Boxx, Velocity DXB, Just Play, Sky Zone – UAE, and Gravity Air Park – Magic Planet.

• Timings: Open on all days. Differs for each spot.
• Cost: Starts from AED 45 for 30 minutes and AED 80 per hour

22. Go-Karting At Ekart Zabeel

Wear your helmet, gear up, and report to the starting line. Ekart Zabeel by Emaar entertainment is located in the Dubai Mall. Equipped with electric go-karts, it promises a high-end challenging kart track for the ultimate karting experience. After a safety briefing in the arena, each timed session or lap is recorded and shared. The booking can be done after reaching the place.

Also, Drivers must be at least 14 years old, 140cm tall and weigh less than 120kgs.

• Timings: 10 AM – 11 PM on all days
• Cost: Standard ticket is AED 95. Race event for AED 200 (min 8 persons). The price includes safety gear and helmets. 
• Contact: 800-38224-6255 or mail to enquiriesekartzabeel@emaar.ae

23. X-Park

The very epitome of an adrenaline junkie’s paradise, this place comes with a 20 ft climbing tower, skating bowls, 29 obstacles, and parkour. They also offer learning courses for proactive kids and adults 

Located near Kite beach, X-park Jr. is the playscape created for kids aged 5-12 to bring them closer to mother nature in a friendly and interactive manner.

• Cost: AED 75 for a day pass for 2 hours (1 kid and 1 parent). Additional AED 25 for any spectator or parent. For X-park Jr. – AED 22.45 per child for 2 hours.
• Timings: 8 AM – 6 PM, all days

24. KidZania Dubai

With over 40+ role-playing activities curated for children aged between 2 and 16 years of age, Kidzania is where kids learn all about jobs, money, and the real world in a fun way while developing life skills that simply cannot be taught in the classroom. Your kids can join the citizenship program in which the kid’s activities are tracked with a stamp on a passport from which they can gain more benefits as they progress. Book your tickets online.

• Cost: AED 195 for kids from 4-18, free for 0-1, 110 AED for 2-3 (for economy tickets), and 80 AED for adults above 17 years
• Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM on all days

25. MX-Ride At X-Dubai

Situated close to the Skydive Dubai desert campus, MX-ride is for motorcycle enthusiasts. Drift the tires of motorcycles on the ultimate motocross playground from the flatlands to the open dunes. Improve your motorcycle skills and techniques by getting trained by world-class instructors. For availability and booking information, contact: +971 50 951 1151 or info@mxridedubai.com

They have training sessions for kids below 12 years of age provided they have parental consent.

• Timings: 7 AM – 7 PM from Tuesday to Sunday. Closed on Mondays. 
• Cost: AED 1000 for 1 hour for an individual. AED 1350 for 2 hours for a group of 2 or more. The price includes all gears, bike, fuel, track fee, water & coach. The price differs if you have your own bike. Click here for detailed price information.

Note: Gravity Zone is the only authorized bungee jumping operator in Dubai. They are closed now.

Important Things To Remember

Before choosing any of the above adventure activities, ensure you follow the rules and conditions specific to each sport. In addition, abide by the instructions given below.

• Ensure you are in good medical condition.
• Ensure that you are free of fresh existing or recurring injuries.
• Do not attempt any of these sports under the influence of drugs, alcohol, or any other substances that tends to impair judgment (eg. Medicine, sedative, or painkillers).
• You should be free from serious physical or mental disorders that would incapacitate you into not letting you complete the physical and mental tasks asked throughout the activity.
• You need to be free from medical conditions that require immediate medical attention.

Although we have not tried all of them, this is a comprehensive list of all the best ones you shouldn’t miss. We’d love to hear from you. Tell us in the comments below, how many of these have you tried and your personal experience with those. 

So, what are you waiting for? Pick one (or more) of the aforementioned adventure activities and head to the UAE for an unforgettable experience!