Desert dropzone: Skydive over Dubai’s vast desert landscape

Note: The desert dropzone opens seasonally and is closed during the summer months.

A guest and the instructor jumping off a plane
Tourist Sky diving over Desert Drop Zone and posing for Camerman
Tourist Sky diving over Desert Drop Zone

Your skydive Dubai desert dropzone safety guide

Instructor adjusting parachute suit straps for skydiving preparation.

Equipment management

  • All parachutes, harnesses, and altimeters follow strict manufacturer maintenance schedules.
  • Reserve parachutes are repacked regularly, and all gear is inspected and quality-checked before every jump.
Tandem skydivers jumping from a plane over Abu Dhabi.

Certified instructors

  • Your tandem jump is led by an instructor certified by a major skydiving authority (such as USPA or an equivalent).
  • They have several years of experience and are trained to manage the full jump from exit to landing.
Woman practicing parachute jump positions with instructor near small aircraft.

Training & briefing

  • Before you board, you’ll get a clear, step-by-step briefing on freefall posture, exit technique, and landing.
  • The instructors will explain everything in a simple, beginner-friendly manner, and you’re free to ask questions anytime.
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Weight & BMI Rules

  • Females: ≤ 90 kg with BMI ≤ 27.5
  • Males: ≤ 100 kg with BMI ≤ 30
Tandem skydivers freefalling over Abu Dhabi with clear blue sky.

Age requirements

  • All jumpers must be 18–75 years old.
  • Guests aged 70–75 must bring a doctor-signed and stamped Declaration of Fitness form on the day of the skydive.
Signing a contract agreement with a pen on a clipboard.

Medical conditions

  • If you currently have or previously had diabetes, epilepsy, fits, high blood pressure, heart or lung disease, paralysis, mental illness, blackouts, severe injuries, substance addiction, nervous-system disorders, limb dislocations, recurrent weakness, or any major medical condition, you must submit a completed Declaration of Fitness form.
Person inspecting skydiving harness and gear indoors.

Pre-flight checks

  • Just before boarding, your instructor completes full harness fittings, secure-point checks, and safety cross-checks, including emergency-device verification such as AADs.
View of clouds from an open airplane door during flight.

Weather & aircraft safety

  • Jumps only happen under approved weather conditions.
  • Aircraft are professionally maintained, aviation-compliant, and flown by experienced pilots for a stable ride to altitude.

Your skydive Dubai desert dropzone essentials

Tandem skydivers freefalling at Skydive Dubai Desert Drop Zone with instructor.

Current season (April & May):

  • Opening hours: 7:00 AM onwards
  • First takeoff: Approximately 8:00 AM
  • Closed Days: Monday & Tuesday

Future season (June onwards):

  • Open days: Saturday & Sunday only
  • Opening hours: 6:00 AM onwards
  • First takeoff: Approximately 7:00 AM
  • Closed days: Monday - Friday

Best time to skydive: Mornings around 7:00am offer cooler temperatures and better visibility, allowing you to fully appreciate the views.

Location & getting there - Desert dropzone sky dive dubai
  • Address:  Skydive Dubai Desert Dropzone, Dubai-Al Ain Road (towards Dubai Investment Park). [Find to map]
  • Getting there:
    By car/taxi: Follow Dubai-Al Ain Road towards Dubai Investment Park. Look out for the Skydive Dubai Desert Campus signs. Free parking is available on-site.
  • You cannot reach the desert dropzone by metro or bus since it is located outside the main city center and public transportation doesn't reach the area directly. However, you can take a bus to the closest bus station Air Force Training School 1- 7.4 Km from the dropzone and take a taxi from there to reach the center.
What to carry - Desert dropzone sky dive dubai
  • Valid photo ID: Bring a valid photo ID, such as your passport or Emirates ID, that matches the name on your booking.
What to wear - Desert dropzone sky dive dubai
  • Dress in comfortable clothing like a close-fitting shirt made from synthetic materials like polyester or nylon and closed-toe shoes that you can move around in easily.
Oatmeal topped with fresh blueberries and almonds in a blue bowl.
  • Opt for whole-wheat toast, oatmeal, or fruits like bananas or apples at least 2-3 hours before jumping.
  • Skip the alcohol: Alcohol consumption is strictly prohibited before any skydiving activity.
Health & requirements - Desert dropzone sky dive dubai
  • Age: You must be 18 years of age or older to skydive.
  • Health: Certain pre-existing medical conditions may limit participation due to the physical demands of skydiving. Here are some examples- pregnancy, heart problems, epilepsy, recent head/neck/back injuries, uncontrolled high blood pressure, severe respiratory issues, mental health conditions, and history of drug/alcohol dependence.
    You may be required to provide a doctor's clearance for certain pre-existing conditions.
  • Weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) restrictions apply:
    Women: Maximum weight of 90 kg (198 lbs) and BMI below 27.5.
    Men: Maximum weight of 100 kg (220 lbs) and BMI below 30.0.

Desert dropzone vs Palm dropzone: What's the difference?

Tandem skydivers freefalling over Dubai desert with clear blue sky.

Desert dropzone

Location & views

  • Location: Find on map
  • Wide-open desert landscapes
  • Golden dunes stretching to the horizon
  • Clear, unobstructed views of the Dubai desert

Experience style

  • Peaceful, spacious skydiving setting
  • Nature-focused scenery with fewer distractions
  • A more traditional “skydiving feel”

Who it’s best for

  • Repeat skydivers wanting a different vibe
  • Travellers who prefer a calmer environment
  • Anyone drawn to desert landscapes

Facilities & atmosphere

  • More relaxed and less crowded
  • Simpler logistics with easier parking
  • Ideal for those wanting a quieter dropzone experience
Skydivers over Palm Jumeirah, Dubai.

Palm dropzone

Location & views

  • Location: Find on map
  • Iconic aerial views of Palm Jumeirah
  • Skyline panoramas of Dubai Marina
  • Coastal scenery and blue waters

Experience style

  • Urban, high-energy skydiving backdrop
  • Photogenic jump with world-famous landmarks
  • Premium, in-demand location

Who it’s best for

  • First-time jumpers wanting postcard views
  • Travellers looking for a signature Dubai experience
  • Anyone who wants the most popular dropzone

Facilities & atmosphere

  • Larger crowds and a buzzy environment
  • More photo/video purchase demand
  • Close to major hotels and tourist spots

Things to do at the desert dropzone

Desert safari at sunrise with falconer and group enjoying picnic breakfast.

Desert Safaris

4x4 vehicle dune bashing in the Dubai desert.

Dune Bashing

Person sandboarding on desert dunes during morning safari.

Sandboarding

Camel ride during evening desert safari with tourists in the sand dunes.

Camel Riding

Frequently asked questions about skydive Dubai desert dropzone

Is skydiving in the desert drozone safe?

Skydiving is an exhilarating adventure but it still carries small inherent risks like any adventurous activity. However, your safety is our top priority. Here are some measures we take to ensure your well-being: highly trained instructors, rigorous equipment maintenance, and comprehensive safety briefings

Is experience necessary for skydiving at the desert Dropzone?

No prior experience is necessary! You'll be jumping in tandem with a highly-trained instructor who will guide you through the entire experience.

What's the age limit for skydiving in Dubai at the desert dropzone?

The minimum age requirement is typically 18 years old, although some restrictions may apply depending on weight and health conditions.

What are the age and health requirements for skydiving at the desert dropzone?

Weight and Body Mass Index (BMI) restrictions apply:
Women: Maximum weight of 90 kg (198 lbs) and BMI below 27.5.
Men: Maximum weight of 100 kg (220 lbs) and BMI below 30.0.

How long does the entire skydiving experience take?

The entire experience can take around 3-4 hours, from arrival to post-jump debriefing. The actual freefall itself lasts about 60 seconds.

How can I book skydiving Dubai desert dropzone?

Booking online is highly recommended. You can book your skydiving in Dubai at desert dropzone tickets here.

What are the timings for skydiving at the desert dropzone?

Operational hours may vary depending on the season, but jumps typically occur during daylight hours. During April and May, the opening hours are from 7am with the first takeoff around 8am. Skydiving at the desert dropzone is closed on Monday and Tuesday.
From June 2024, the desert dropzone will be open on Saturday and Sunday from 6am, with the first takeoff around 7am. The desert dropzone will remain closed from Monday to Friday.

Can I skydive solo at the desert dropzone?

At the desert dropzone, tandem skydiving with a certified instructor is mandatory for first-time jumpers. Solo skydiving requires significant experience and licensing.

What does my tandem skydiving experience at the desert dropzone include?

Your experience will usually include pre-jump briefing, gearing up, the plane ride to altitude, the thrilling freefall, canopy flight, and a smooth landing. Photos and video are also included in your ticket.

What should I wear for skydiving in the desert dropzone?

Comfortable clothing like sweatpants, leggings, and a moisture-wicking t-shirt are recommended. Avoid loose clothing or dangling items. The dropzone may provide additional details on recommended attire.

Can I skydive solo at the desert dropzone?

At the desert dropzone, tandem skydiving with a certified instructor is mandatory for first-time jumpers. Solo skydiving requires significant experience and licensing.

How do I get to the desert dropzone?

The dropzone is located outside the city center and inaccessible by metro. Your options include renting a car, using a ride-sharing service, or inquiring about Skydive Dubai's transfer services (if available).

What happens if the weather is bad before skydiving in Dubai?

Skydiving is weather-dependent. In case of bad weather, your jump may be rescheduled for another time.