With the right equipment, the right weather, and lots of snow, skiing is something that nearly everyone can enjoy. However, the cost of skiing is something that not even those in the best shape can easily afford. The price of a day ticket, the cost of equipment, and the amount of time taken off work all add up and make for a big chunk of change. Luckily, there are a number of countries where you can ski for much cheaper. Dubai is one of them.
The ski season in Dubai starts in October and continues until April. During this time, the snow parks at the top of the mountains become the hub for recreational skiing and offer tourists and locals alike a chance to enjoy the snow sports life. Dubai is actually located in the Middle East, bordering the Arabian Sea to the west and surrounded by the Arabian Peninsula to the north, Libya to the east, and Oman to the south. In 2016, Dubai had its highest tourism revenue in the history of the country with £16.7 billion ($21.9 billion) from leisure activities, followed by £9.8 billion from retail, and £8.3 billion from corporate travel and meetings. So, it clearly isn’t just about having fun in the sand, as the city has plenty to offer those looking for adventure and a change of scene. One of the best things about Dubai is its inexpensive ski ticket. You can buy a day ticket for £55 ($74.3), which is considerably cheaper than the £89.20 ($120.60) that you would pay if you were to visit the US or Canada. Inflation makes this seem even more appealing. A day ticket in 2016 would cost £52.40 ($70.35) in 2017, £55 ($74.30) in 2018, and £60.20 ($80.35) in 2019.
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Where Can I Ski In Dubai?
The skiing season in Dubai begins in October and continues until April. There are three main ski resorts in Dubai that you can choose from: Ski Dubai, Mountain Biking Dubai, and Ice Skating Dubai. Since the 1980s, Ski Dubai has been the hub for leisure skiing in the Middle East. Located 15 minutes from the city center, the resort boasts a magnificent snow park with freeride and backcountry terrain. The snow park is one of the largest in the world and is home to the Middle East’s largest ice rink. During the summer, the ice rink is transformed into a glittering pool that is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery. Nearby is the Action Park, a giant park with a variety of attractions that are accessible by cable car. The slopes and the entire premise are designed for children, but there is something here for adults, as well.
For those looking for a change of scene and a place to escape the heat, Mountain Biking Dubai is the solution. This resort is located in the northern suburbs of Dubai and features 14 trails that are illuminated by the sun at night, creating an otherworldly atmosphere. During the day, you can ride through the desert landscape, taking in the beautiful vistas and the endless panoramic views. At night, the energy of the city and the twinkling lights of its skyscrapers are reflected in the majestic landscapes of the desert. The trails here are designed for beginners and intermediates, meaning that even if you have never done any mountain biking before, you will be able to have a go on the trails and get some exercise.
Ice Skating Dubai is one of the city’s newest additions and is the third indoor/outdoor rink that the city has opened. It is adjacent to the Mall of the Emirates, and the construction work here is truly impressive. The ice rink is open year-round and features two sheets of ice, one above the other, connected by a transparent walkway. This is the world’s largest outdoor ice rink, and it is open all year round, allowing residents and tourists alike to come together and enjoy an ice skating session. The mall’s architectural design allows sunlight to stream in through the skylight above, creating an incredible effect as the sun sets and turns the ice rink into a natural skating rink lit by the sun and the twinkling lights of the city’s skyscrapers.
How Much Does It Cost To Ski In Dubai?
The price of a day ticket to Ski Dubai is slightly cheaper than that of a day ticket to the US or Canada. This is largely due to the fact that the dollar has dropped in value against the Turkish lira, and the popularity of the sport here means that there are lots of deals and steals to be had. A day ticket to the US is £87.20 ($120.60), and a day ticket to Canada is £80 ($110.50). However, the savings only amount to £17.40 ($23.70) and £11.70 ($16.50) respectively, making a day of skiing in Dubai not as cheap as it could be. A one-day pass at Ski Dubai costs £55 ($74.30), and a day pass at the other two resorts cost £39.20 ($53.50). If you do the math, you will see that a day of skiing in Dubai will cost you £98.80 ($133.90) for one day at the top of the mountain, £78.20 ($106.50) for one day at the other two resorts, and £55 ($74.30) to ride the gondola to reach the top of Ski Dubai. If you want to have a go at all three, you will need to buy a day pass for £97 ($133.90) ahead of your trip, meaning that a day of skiing in Dubai will cost you a total of £205.80 ($278.30).
Are There Any Disabled Discounts?
There are indeed some great discounts available for those with disabilities and/or children. Full-time students are entitled to a 50% discount, as are those who are retired. You also get a 25% discount if you are a member of a relevant association, and there are similar offers for parents with children. To be eligible for one of these discounts, you will need to show some form of identification, such as a passport, visa, or driver’s license. If you are traveling overseas, you will also need to inform the Tourism Board at least 48 hours before your arrival.