11 epic adventures in Dubai
Whether it’s exploring the desert by dune buggy or camelback, taking to the skies in helicopters, hot air balloons or ziplines, or just getting to grips with ancient falconry, there’s an adventure for everyone in Dubai – and that’s before we get to the golf…
Take the wheel of an F1 car
Dubai is famous for its big lights and fast cars, and they don’t get much faster than those at the Dubai Autodrome, home to the Dubai 24 Hour race and where you can get behind the wheel of everything from a Ferrari GT to an F1 car. Feel the 550bhp and top speed of 260km/h, under the expert tuition of the 2000 Jaguar R1 or the 2002 Arrows A23 as part of the F1 Experience, or go back to every driver’s roots with kart racing in the Kartdrome.
Ride into the desert
Arabian horses, the topic of many locals’ myths and legends, have been an integral part of Bedouin history for 5,000 years. Their speed, endurance and intelligence seeing them bred as war horses. Famed across the world, where better for an authentic Arabian experience than riding across the desert wilderness on horseback.
A birds-eye view of Dubai
From the turquoise waters to the epic architecture of the Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, and Palm Jumeirah, not to mention the seemingly endless desert, all spliced with stunning patches of 18-hole golf courses, to really understand what makes Dubai, you need to take to the sky. Private helicopter rides, with your own personal pilot tour guide, is the way to see the Emirate.
Arabian Desert nature walk
An expert guided walking tour is the best way to discover the desert's unique inhabitants, fascinating geological formations and indigenous flora and fauna. From the date palm, famous for its sweet fruit but also a useful building material, to dune grass, that thrives in even the most inhospitable of environments, there’s so much to discover away from the lights of the city.
Luxury sunset camel safari
A camel ride is a staple of any visit to the Middle East, and in Dubai they know how to make them special, ensuring you see the desert at its best, and how the sun alters the landscape as it rises and falls. Stargaze in the clear skies, camping out at the end of a trek, and maybe even enjoy authentic cuisine during your journey, Dubai offers camel riding at its very best.
Dune buggies across the desert
Dune bashing is an off-road adventure that’s purpose built for Dubai. Not only does it give you a chance to explore the vast sands of the Arabian Desert, but it’s a skill to behold as your driver navigates the ever-shifting terrain. Along the way, there’s a chance to jump out for more adventure, whether it’s sandboarding down the powder soft dunes or to get to grips with a quad bike in the unforgiving terrain.
Historic falconry in the Dubai desert
The age-old Bedouin art of falconry has been part of the country’s culture and heritage as far back as 13th century BC. Bedouins used them for hunting, and today birds of prey are highly regarded in Emirati culture, meaning there’s no better place to learn about them, or more specifically, handle them and watch them soar into the skies at close quarters. Learn about the life cycles, diet and natural habitat of the falcons, and observe a traditional falconry display where you can admire the birds’ power and prowess in the air.
Hot air balloon from mountain to metropolis
The sun rising over the Hajar Mountains is a must-see in this part of the world, and a hot air balloon ride offers the very best view across the sprawling Dubai metropolis and beyond. Rise early for the very best views and glide over the billowing dunes, among the soaring falcons, and touch back down just in time for a breakfast.
Master the bow and arrow
Archery is a cherished tradition in Middle Eastern and Bedouin culture, and remains one of the most popular sports in the UAE today. Learn about the history and the distinct Arab style from expert instructors and practice your skills among the captivating surrounds of the desert.
Jet-ski the Dubai waterways
The array of water sports on offer in Dubai is one of the many reasons the city is so popular, with the beautiful azure waters of the Persian Gulf warm year-round. Seeing Dubai from the big blue gives a unique perspective, and a jet-ski is the perfect way to do it, allowing you to pick your speed, be it wave-hitting fast, or cool and casual.
Zipline through the city
At 170 metres high and one kilometre long, the world longest urban zipline is a steep, belly-down flight-like experience, with panoramic views of the city you won’t get anywhere else. There’s a thousand thrill seeking options in Dubai but soaring 80kph across the marina is unique among them. With two concurrent lines, you can also experience it side-by-side a friend.
