When you think of Dubai, the first things that might come to mind are sun, sand, and soaring temperatures. But what if I told you that you could also enjoy snow and skiing right in the heart of the city? That’s exactly what you’ll find at Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort that offers a winter wonderland experience in the middle of the desert.
Having visited Ski Dubai during one of my trips, I’m excited to share my personal guide on what to expect, why you should visit, and how to make the most of your time there.
What is Ski Dubai?
Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort located within the Mall of the Emirates, one of Dubai’s largest and most luxurious shopping malls. It’s a massive 22,500 square meters of real snow, offering a unique escape from the desert heat.
The resort features five ski runs of varying difficulty, a snow park, and even live penguins! Whether you’re an experienced skier or just looking to have some fun in the snow, Ski Dubai has something for everyone.
Where is Ski Dubai?
Ski Dubai is conveniently located inside the Mall of the Emirates, which is situated along Sheikh Zayed Road in the Al Barsha district of Dubai. The mall is easily accessible by car, taxi, or public transport, with its own dedicated metro station on the Red Line. If you’re staying at the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, you’ll have direct access to Ski Dubai without even stepping outside.
Why Visit Ski Dubai?
Visiting Ski Dubai is a must for anyone looking to experience something truly unique during their Dubai holiday. Here’s why I think you should include it in your itinerary:
Year-Round Snow: Where else can you enjoy real snow in the middle of a desert? Ski Dubai offers a chance to experience winter activities even when it’s blazing hot outside. It’s surreal to step from the warm mall into a freezing cold winter wonderland.
Fun for All Ages: Whether you’re a family with kids, a couple, or a solo traveler, Ski Dubai has activities that cater to all ages. From skiing and snowboarding to tobogganing and simply playing in the snow, there’s something for everyone.
Live Penguins: One of the most unique features of Ski Dubai is its colony of live penguins. You can book an encounter to get up close and personal with these adorable creatures, which is something I found to be a highlight of my visit.
What to Do at Ski Dubai
1. Skiing and Snowboarding
Ski Dubai offers five ski runs that vary in difficulty, from beginner slopes to a more challenging black run. If you’re new to skiing or snowboarding, there are instructors available for lessons. I’ve seen families and individuals of all skill levels having a blast on the slopes, and the experience is made even better with the provided ski equipment, so you don’t have to bring your own.
2. Snow Park
For those who aren’t interested in skiing, the Snow Park offers plenty of fun activities. You can go tobogganing, enjoy a ride on the giant snowball, or even try the zip line. The Snow Park is a great place to let loose and just have fun in the snow. I particularly enjoyed the icy slides, which were thrilling and refreshing.
3. Penguin Encounter
One of the most memorable parts of my visit was the Penguin Encounter. Ski Dubai houses a colony of King and Gentoo penguins, and you can book a session to meet them up close. It was an incredible experience to interact with these friendly creatures in such an unexpected location.
4. Chairlift and Snow Bullet
Don’t miss the chairlift ride that gives you a bird’s-eye view of the entire Ski Dubai facility. It’s a relaxing way to take in the sights. For adrenaline junkies, the Snow Bullet zip line offers a thrilling ride over the slopes, which I found to be an exciting way to see the park from above.
5. Après Ski Dining
After a day on the slopes, I recommend warming up with a hot drink or a meal at one of the cafés or restaurants overlooking the ski area. There’s something surreal about sipping hot chocolate while watching people ski and snowboard in Dubai.
Ski Dubai Tickets and Pricing
Ski Dubai Tickets
The ticket prices for Ski Dubai vary depending on the package and activities you choose. Here are some general options:
Snow Classic Pass: AED 230 (approx.) – This pass includes access to the Snow Park, unlimited rides on the snow attractions, and a chance to watch the penguins.
Snow Plus Pass: AED 320 (approx.) – This includes everything in the Snow Classic Pass, plus a choice of one additional activity, such as the Penguin Encounter or the Snow Bullet.
Ski Slope Pass: AED 200-500 (approx.) – Prices vary depending on the duration, from 2 hours to a full-day pass, giving you access to the ski slopes.
Where to Buy Tickets:
You can purchase tickets online through the Ski Dubai website or buy them directly at the Mall of the Emirates. I recommend booking in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak times or want to secure a spot for the Penguin Encounter.
Exploring Mall of the Emirates
Since Ski Dubai is located inside the Mall of the Emirates, I usually make a day of it by exploring the mall before or after hitting the slopes. Here’s what I love about the Mall of the Emirates:
1. Shopping
The Mall of the Emirates is a shopper’s paradise with a vast range of stores, from luxury brands to high-street favorites. It’s the perfect place to indulge in some retail therapy after your time in the snow.
2. Dining
There are countless dining options in the mall, catering to all tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. Some of my favorite spots include:
Aspen by Kempinski: A stylish café located in the Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates, perfect for afternoon tea or a light meal.
Tribes: A vibrant African-themed restaurant offering hearty meals with a view of the ski slopes.
Texas de Brazil: A must-visit for meat lovers, this Brazilian-American steakhouse offers an all-you-can-eat experience.
3. Entertainment
If you’re not exhausted after Ski Dubai, the mall has plenty of entertainment options. I often visit the Cinema Mall of the Emirates for a movie or check out the VOX Cinemas for the latest blockbusters in a comfortable setting. There’s also the Magic Planet entertainment center, which is great for kids and families.
Practical Tips for Visiting Ski Dubai
1. What to Wear
Ski Dubai provides all the necessary winter clothing, including jackets, pants, and boots. However, I recommend wearing your own warm socks and gloves for added comfort. The temperatures inside are kept below freezing, so be prepared for the cold.
2. Book in Advance
Especially if you’re interested in the Penguin Encounter or visiting during the holidays, it’s a good idea to book your tickets online in advance. This ensures you get the time slots you want.
3. Timing Your Visit
I’ve found that the mornings and early afternoons are less crowded, making it easier to enjoy the slopes without long wait times. If you prefer a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during these times.
4. Combining Your Visit
Since Ski Dubai is located in the Mall of the Emirates, I like to combine my visit with some shopping, dining, or catching a movie. It’s easy to spend an entire day here with so much to do.
Nearby Attractions
1. Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates
If you’re staying at the Kempinski Hotel, you’ll have direct access to Ski Dubai. The hotel itself is luxurious and offers top-notch amenities, making it a great choice if you want to stay close to the action.
2. Downtown Dubai
While you’re in the area, consider visiting Downtown Dubai, home to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain. It’s just a short drive away and offers some of the city’s most iconic attractions.
Ski Dubai is truly a one-of-a-kind experience that I highly recommend adding to your Dubai itinerary. Whether you’re skiing, playing in the snow, or meeting penguins, it’s a unique way to escape the heat and have some fun in the snow. Plus, with the Mall of the Emirates right there, you have endless options for shopping, dining, and entertainment. Don’t miss out on this winter wonderland during your next Dubai trip!
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