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Dubai's coolest secret: Indoor skiing at Ski Dubai

Craving a chill escape from the sun? Believe it or not, you can find it in the heart of Dubai at the award-winning Ski Dubai. This indoor ski resort offers a cool experience for all levels of skiers and snowboarders in a 2-hour session. If you have the experience and the courage, you can also try the world’s first indoor Black Diamond run or if you are looking for a chill time, you can roll down the slope in a Zorb ball. So ditch the desert heat and discover a world of winter fun at Ski Dubai!

What to expect on the indoor slopes at Ski Dubai 

  • The slopes are maintained at a chilly -4°C (24°F), so be sure to dress warmly in ski clothes and waterproof gear. Ski Dubai rents out the ski apparel. 
  • Since it's indoors, the snow is machine-made and may not have the same feel as fresh powder on an outdoor mountain. However, it's well-maintained and groomed for a smooth skiing or snowboarding experience.
  • There are chairlifts and a T-bar to transport you up the slopes.
  • There are blue, red, and black runs that cater to beginners, intermediates, and experienced skiers and snowboarders. If you're looking for some thrills, there's a dedicated freestyle zone with jumps, ramps, and rails for practicing tricks.
  • Unlike outdoor skiing, you won't have to deal with unpredictable weather conditions or extreme cold.
  • If you don’t want to ski, you can also try your hand at tobogganing, snowboarding or even mix it up and become a human hamster as you roll down the slope!

Different slopes

Blue Slope

  • Difficulty: Easiest (Suitable for beginners)
  • Description: This slope is perfect for first-timers or those looking for a leisurely ski or snowboard session. With a wide incline and ample space for maneuvering, it allows you to build confidence and practice basic skills before you hit the more difficult slopes.

Red Slope

  • Difficulty: Intermediate
  • Description: The Red Slope offers a step up in challenge compared to the blue one. The incline is steeper, with some narrower sections that demand more control and technique. It's ideal for intermediate skiers and snowboarders who are comfortable making linked turns and navigating moderate slopes.

Black Slope

  • Difficulty: Most Challenging (For experienced skiers only)
  • Description: Marketed as the world's first indoor black diamond run, the black slope presents a steeper challenge than the other two slopes. It features a more significant incline and a couple of steeper sections that require advanced skiing or snowboarding skills. However, some experienced skiers consider it to be a difficult blue or an easy red run due to its shorter length compared to traditional black runs.

Tips and guidelines for a smooth experience when indoor skiing in Dubai

Book your tickets in advance, especially during peak season: Ski Dubai is a popular tourist destination, so it's always a good idea to book your tickets ahead of time, especially if you're traveling during the summer months. This will help you avoid long lines and ensure you get a spot.

Dress appropriately for the cold: It will be cold inside Ski Dubai (around -4°C or 25°F). While Ski Dubai will rent jackets, caps, and gloves, you should also come prepared. Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes. You can rent gloves, socks, and other winter gear at Ski Dubai, but coming prepared is better.

Take a lesson if you're a beginner: If you've never been skiing or snowboarding before, or if it's been a while, taking a lesson from one of Ski Dubai's instructors is a great way to learn the basics and avoid getting hurt.

Consider getting a Snow Classic Pass: The Snow Classic Pass gives you access to all of Ski Dubai's activities, including the slopes, the Snow Park, the chairlift, and the March of the Penguins show. It also includes rentals of all the essential winter clothing.

Lockers are available for rent: If you don't want to carry your belongings around with you all day, you can rent a locker for a small fee.

Basic fitness requirement: Whether you're a novice or a pro, a basic fitness level is all you need to get started.

Waiver for all guests: All guests are required to sign a waiver before entering the slopes area.

Guests must have specific skill levels: Guests must meet specific skill requirements to use the slope, including safe stopping, speed control, linking turns, and the ability to use the lifts.

Child safety policy: For safety reasons, children under 3 cannot enter the slopes, those aged 3-8 must be accompanied by an adult, and children 9-14 can enter if supervised adults are within the mall.

Frequently asked questions about indoor skiing Dubai

Ski Dubai offers slopes for all skill levels, from beginner to expert. There are five runs in total, with the longest one being 400 meters.