When you think of Dubai, images of endless deserts, golden sand dunes, and blazing sunshine come to mind. But hidden inside the famous Mall of the Emirates lies a magical winter wonderland — Ski Dubai — the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort.
Covering an impressive 22,500 square meters, Ski Dubai offers real snow all year round, sub-zero temperatures, and thrilling activities for people of all ages. Whether you’re a beginner who wants to learn skiing or an adventure lover seeking adrenaline, this is one of the most unforgettable attractions in Dubai.
What Is Ski Dubai?
Ski Dubai is an indoor snow park and ski resort located inside Mall of the Emirates on Sheikh Zayed Road. It opened in 2005, developed by Majid Al Futtaim, and quickly became one of Dubai’s most iconic destinations.
The park maintains a constant temperature between -1°C to -2°C, ensuring visitors experience real snow even when it’s over 40°C outside.
Inside, you’ll find:
- Five different ski slopes with varying difficulty levels
- A snow park for kids and families
- Ski and snowboard lessons
- The famous Penguin Encounter
- A chairlift, toboggan runs, ice caves, and more!
It’s a surreal experience — stepping out of the hot desert air into a frozen ski paradise.
Attractions and Activities at Ski Dubai
1. Ski Slopes
Ski Dubai features five main slopes, each designed for different skill levels — from beginners to professional skiers.
- The longest run stretches 400 meters and includes a 60-meter drop.
- There’s also a Freestyle Zone for snowboarders to perform tricks and jumps.
Instructors are available for one-on-one or group lessons, making it perfect for first-timers.
2. Snow Park
The Snow Park is a massive family-friendly area where you can play in real snow. It spans 4,500 square meters and includes:
- Ice slides
- Snowball fights
- Toboggan runs
- Climbing towers
- Snow caves
It’s ideal for kids and families who just want to have fun in a safe, snowy environment.
3. Penguin Encounter
One of the most heartwarming attractions at Ski Dubai is the Penguin Encounter.
You can meet real Gentoo and King Penguins, watch them swim and waddle, and even book a personal meet-and-greet session. It’s educational, fun, and one of the most popular experiences in the park.
4. Chairlift Ride
Enjoy a scenic ride across the snowy slopes with the Ski Dubai Chairlift.
It offers amazing aerial views of the entire snow park — perfect for photos and videos.
5. Mountain Thriller Ride
If you crave adrenaline, try the Mountain Thriller, a high-speed slide that rushes you down from the top of the hill. It’s fast, exciting, and gives you a real skiing rush — even if you’ve never skied before!
6. Snow Bullet Zipline
Fly through the chilly air with the Snow Bullet Zipline, the world’s first indoor zipline in sub-zero conditions.
Suspended 16 meters above the ground, it’s an exhilarating experience you can’t find anywhere else in the Middle East.
Ski Dubai Ticket Prices (Approximate)
Ticket prices may vary based on season, activities, and packages, but here’s a general idea:
(Snow Park) Pass Access to Snow Park & rides AED 220
(Ski Slope Pass 2 hours) Access to ski slopes AED 250
(Full Day Slope) Pass Unlimited slope access AED 350
(Penguin Encounter) Meet and interact with penguins AED 250 – AED 400
(Family Pass) Group discounts for 4 or more AED 700+
Tip: You can book tickets directly from the official Ski Dubai website or via the Mall of the Emirates site for discounts and combo offers.
Facilities and Services
Ski Dubai ensures comfort and safety for every visitor.
Facilities include:
- Free winter jackets, gloves, and boots
- Ski and snowboard equipment rentals
- Cafes and restaurants like Avalanche Café (inside the snow park) and North 28 Restaurant (with slope views)
- Changing rooms and lockers
- Professional trainers and safety staff on-site
Dining Experience
After a fun snow session, visitors can relax at North 28 Café, located right next to the slopes.
Enjoy hot chocolate, coffee, and delicious snacks while watching skiers glide down the mountain — a perfect way to end your snowy adventure.
Penguin Encounter Experience
This is one of Ski Dubai’s most Instagram-worthy experiences.
You can:
- Watch the penguins march every hour
- Take pictures during “Snow Penguin Encounters”
- Learn about penguin conservation and Arctic wildlife
- It’s an educational and heartwarming highlight, especially for families and kids.
Location and How to Get There
Ski Dubai is located inside Mall of the Emirates, one of Dubai’s most popular shopping malls.
Address:
Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha, Dubai, UAE
Getting There:
- By Metro: Take the Red Line and get off at Mall of the Emirates Metro Station.
- By Taxi or Car: Just mention “Mall of the Emirates” to any taxi driver — Ski Dubai is right inside.
- Parking: The mall offers free parking for visitors.
Opening Hours
Monday to Thursday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Friday to Sunday: 9:00 AM – 12:00 Midnight
(Always check the official website for updated timings and event schedules.)
Visitor Reviews & Experience
Ski Dubai consistently ranks as one of the top-rated tourist attractions in Dubai.
Travelers love the novelty of skiing in the desert, the friendly staff, and the high-quality snow.
Average Ratings:
- Google: (4.5/5)
- TripAdvisor: 4.5/5 (Certificate of Excellence)
Tips for Visitors
- Wear warm clothes under your provided snow gear.
- Book tickets online to avoid queues.
- Visit early in the day to enjoy less crowd.
- Don’t miss the Penguin Encounter — it’s worth every minute!
- Combine your visit with shopping or dining at Mall of the Emirates.
Nearby Attractions to Visit
After your snowy adventure, explore other amazing places near Ski Dubai:
- Dubai Miracle Garden – Colorful flower paradise
- Burj Al Arab – Dubai’s iconic 7-star hotel
- Jumeirah Beach – Relax by the sea
- Global Village – Cultural and shopping experience
Ski Dubai proves that anything is possible in Dubai — even snow in the desert!
From thrilling slopes and penguin encounters to cozy cafes and family fun, it’s a must-visit attraction for tourists of all ages.
Whether you’re visiting in summer or winter, Ski Dubai offers a magical escape into a snowy wonderland — right in the heart of the city. Don’t forget your camera, your sense of adventure, and a warm smile!
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