Ski Dubai (Mall of the Emirates)

Snow in the middle of the desert? Nothing is impossible in the United Arab Emirates. Since 2005, winter sports enthusiasts enjoy a variety of slopes inside 2.5 ha Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East. It is located inside the Mall of the Emirates, and is open 365 days of the year, between 9 am and 11 pm. The temperature remains constant at -4 degrees.

The indoor resort features five runs for different skill levels of up to 400 metres length. A chair lift, a t-bar, and a number of magic carpets get skiers and snowboarders back to the top. Furthermore, you will find a kids' area, a snow park featuring jumps and rails, various toboggan runs, and fun attractions such as the Flying Fox. For many visitors, the group of penguins living at the resort are a special highlight. You can touch them, or even swim with them.

The necessary equipment for the winter fun can be rented on site. 3,500 skis and snowboards as well as 13,000 ski boots, and a variety of winter jackets, trousers, hats, and gloves are available. Teachers are ready to help visitors take their first steps on the snow. To grab a bite to eat, "St. Moritz" restaurant, named after the famous Swiss ski town, or one of the other dining facilities. Some of the rooms at the adjacent Hotel Kempinski also feature a view of the slopes.

Dubai has a lot more in store than just an indoor ski resort. One of the highlights is Burj Khalifa. At 2,717 feet, it is the highest building in the world. Dubai Frame's viewing platform also boasts an impressive view of the city.

Ski Dubai is located inside the Mall of the Emirates at Sheikh Zayed Road, near Jumeirah Beach and Palm Jumeirah. The easiest way is to take a taxi right to the mall's west entrance.