Dubai, UAE – A year has now passed since the first indoor skiing facility in the Middle East opened in Dubai. If you want to spend the morning on a beach and afternoon on the slopes, Ski Dubai.
Ski Dubai is celebrating its first year of operation at the Mall of the Emirates. |
The Ski Dubai complex is a part of the huge Mall of the Emirates, presently the largest shopping mall in the region, and is overlooked by the restaurants linked to the Kempinski Hotel adjacent to the mall. Diners at the new Salmontini restaurant have a clear view of the bottom of the slope and the ski lift as they enjoy apres-ski meals and a beer. For something less expensive, a TGI Fridays also has a panoramic view from the other side of the slopes.
Or you can stop at the slopeside mid-station cafe for a hot chocolate, just like any true alpine ski resort. Ski Dubai is as authentic a skiing experience as possible in the Middle Eastern desert.
Skiers and riders need no equipment or winter clothing whatsoever. You just arrive at Ski Dubai, pay the entry fee, and staffers issue you clothing and boots. After changing and storing your own clothes in a locker where the electronic key also functions as your lift pass, you return to retrieve your skis, already adjusted to fit. Up an escalator, and you are at the entrance to the slope where you pick up your poles.
Every day is a good snow day in Ski Dubai. Indoor snowmaking provides a dusting of fresh, fine new snow over a firm base for the best turns possible in an indoor venue. If you want lessons, Ski Dubai also has instructors and courses for all levels of ability.
Beginners tend to stick to the gentle lower slope from the mid-station cafe downwards, while more advanced skiers head for the upper levels. Snowboarders are also welcome with terrain park hits to practice their moves.
If you are a skier visiting Dubai, or bored with the beach, head for Ski Dubai for a very unusual Middle Eastern desert experience.
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