An Exclusive look at Ski Dubai- The World's Largest "Mind Boggling" Indoor Ski Resort

Making Snow in the Desert

For those of us living in snow covered parts of the world, skiing and snowboarding are readily available for the average winter sports junkie. Not so for our friends in the Middle East, where the climate is dry, rain is rare, and temperatures reach north of 110 degrees(F)(43(C)). Not to mention the humidity which kicks in every now and then, frying essentially any forgotten CD, MP3 or car adapter left in the car. Oh, and did i mention, the large number of reported air conditioning problems?

Well, Thanks to a few genius minds in Dubai (UAE), Snow is now being made! Behold! Ski Dubai, Ladies and Gentlemen! An Astonishing 22,500 Square Metre indoor ski resort, (roughly 3 football fields for math failures) covering a host of winter recreation activities such as Skiing, Snow Boarding, Tobogganing, and a snow park, all in the middle of a freaking desert!. The slight snow showers feel natural and the temperature range is maintained between -1 to -2 Celsius (30.2F).

Ticket Price

As for tickets, you have the option of an all-day ski slope pass ($73 approx) or a two hour ski slope ticket ($40 approx). Based on my personal experience, i'd suggest the "all-day slope pass" primarily because it works out cheaper, and 2 hours flies by pretty quick when your having such a smashing good time.Regardless of what you choose, your slope pass will include a Jacket, Skis/ski poles/boots, Snowboard/boots, helmets for kids, Disposable socks, (these are pretty bad, i brought my own) and trousers. They usually don't involve hats or gloves, however, for hygiene reasons. So, you'd have to purchase it at their snow pro shop. I'd Advice you to buy/bring them from back home, since their shop is usually crowded, and it spoils the vibe.

The Runs

Ski Dubai offers 5 different runs for slope pass holders, ranging in difficulty from beginner to expert. Level 1 and 2 is what i'd recommend if all you can do is make a few basic controlled turns, like me. On the other hand, if your a pro, level 4 is definetly for you, where you've got the freestyle zone and race runs. I saw quite a number of ppl here, although i must admit, some seemed to fall quite a bit ?!?

Well, What if you've never skied before? Believe it or not, they've actually got a pretty big snow school, offering all kinds of lessons either as a group,or private, depending on what you choose. After a few failed turns on level 2, i decided to head here, but after i saw the prices they charge, $51 for group lessons (90 mins) and $117 for private (60 mins), i decided trial and error was going to be my tutor for the remainder of the day.

Snow Park

Their Snow Park at 3000 square metres is nothing short of amazing!. They've got this mind blowing snow cavern with nice lighting, interactive experiences, and snow statues.Surrounding it is a snow ball throwing gallery, tobogganing hills, and a twin track bobsled ride. I have to admit the bobsled ride was pretty sweet! Fast as hell and scary at times, but def worth the rush. My only advice here is that you eat light before you go. I've seen a few throw ups by some ppl and its not a pretty sight.

Themed Restaurants

Since i was on a budget, i didn't really munch at either of their cafe's (St.Moritz and Avalanche) and try out their international cuisine, but i've been told their food is pretty good. The lodge, furthermore, can accomodate about 1500 guests. Ski Dubai apparently hosts birthday parties as well. This is a very nice place if your looking for a different kind of snow experience. There's nothing like it.

Let me know what your experiences are at Ski Dubai, should you choose to check this place out..i'd love to hear...