The Travel Guide to Skiing and Other Activities at Ski Dubai
Did you know that Ski Dubai has a whopping 6,000 tonnes of snow? Every night, the frosty venue actually makes 30 to 40 tonnes of fresh snow, just like outdoor ski resorts do.
The folks there use pure water with no chemicals. They cool it down in a chiller, then send it through pipes to those snow guns on the ceiling.
If you’re ready to ski, snowboard, or just have the coolest time at this awesome ski spot, keep reading!
What is Ski Dubai known for?
Ski Dubai is known for being a popular indoor ski resort in the Mall of the Emirates. It’s got this huge area for skiing indoors, and it stays chilly there all year. Super fun place for family and friends!
Best Time to Go
The best time to go to Ski Dubai is during the weekdays at noon, when it’s less busy. With that, we also recommend staying for about 3 to 4 hours to really soak up the experience.
Things to Know
How to Get Around
What to Do at Ski Dubai
Watch Live Snowfall
Website: https://www.skidxb.com/en-ae/ski-dubai/passes-packages/snowpark
Contact Details: +971 4 409 4000
Fees: Starts at AED 220
At Ski Dubai, you can escape the desert heat and experience the wonder of live snowfall. We love that you’ll be surrounded by fresh snow, with temperatures dropping to a chilly -4°C!
Before you hit the snow, grab some complimentary jackets and boots from the ski spot to keep cozy. That way, you can chill out, snap tons of pics, and stay warm with a yummy cup of hot chocolate included in your pass.
Hit the Slopes or Shred the Snow
Website: https://www.skidxb.com/en-ae/ski-dubai/passes-packages/slope
Contact Details: +971 4 409 4000
Fees: Starts at AED 250
Ready to ski or snowboard? No matter the season, Ski Dubai offers 5 slopes catering to all skill levels and expert lessons available, so everyone can join the winter action!
Gear up for at least 2 hours of non-stop indoor snowboarding or skiing. This includes access to slopes, chairlifts, and drag lifts, plus a free locker. But don’t just take our word for it—sessions are led by pros, and slopes are tailored to every level.
As a bonus, you can check out the other themed events like Freestyle Night, Ladies’ Night, and Guys’ Night, or kickstart your day with the Morning Hike event.
Chill with Snow Penguins
Website: https://www.skidxb.com/en-ae/ski-dubai/passes-packages/penguin-encounters
Contact Details: +971 4 409 4000
Fees: Starts at AED 230
One of the coolest experiences at the ski resort is hanging out with the amazing snow penguins! Whether you’re catching the March of the Penguins or going all-in with the up-close sessions, we reckon it’s a family adventure you won’t forget.
Here, you can hang out with several fluffy flippers! To know which is which, note that Gentoo penguins are speedsters in the water, hitting speeds up to 35 km/h. Meanwhile, King Penguins stand out with their striking orange patches on their necks and beaks.
It’s a group thing too, so get ready to share the penguin love with 12 other folks. Overall, the package includes up to 40 minutes of fun and learning, plus a handy standard locker for your stuff.
Zip across the Slopes
Website: https://www.skidxb.com/en-ae/ski-dubai/snow-daycation
Contact Details: +971 4 409 4000
Fees: Starts at AED 295
The Snow Bullet ride is where you can zoom across the slopes like never before. We believe this isn’t your average ziplining experience either—it’s actually the world’s first indoor zipline adventure!
Strap in and prepare for a thrilling ride along a 150-meter-long journey. We think you’ll love soaring through the snowy landscape with the wind in your hair!
Kids can also have an adrenaline rush of their own. But to hop on the ride, you’ll need to be at least 125 cm tall, 8 years old, and weigh at least 30 kg. Safety first!
Go on a Scenic Chairlift Ride
Website: https://www.skidxb.com/en-ae/ski-dubai/snow-daycation
Contact Details: +971 4 409 4000
Fees: Starts at AED 295
Need a breather after all your chill adventures? With a relaxing chairlift ride, you can take a break and enjoy the stunning views of Ski Dubai.
The ski facility boasts a 4-person chairlift with a middle station and a curve, along with 2 j-bars for easy access to the slopes.
And with unlimited chairlift rides included, we’re glad that guests can take their time to capture some Insta-worthy pics or simply appreciate the chill scenery.
Where to Eat around Ski Dubai
North 28
Address: Mall of the Emirates, next to Ski Dubai, Ground Floor – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 409 4132
Pricing: AED 50 – 150
Right by Ski Dubai’s entrance, North 28 gives off those chilly winter vibes for all-day dining. No need to book in advance. Just pop inside the cafe for some cozy vibes and sip on a hot beverage to match.
We adore the cozy, well-lit space, offering fantastic snow sights with the penguins! We suggest grabbing a window seat for some seriously chill vibes while munching on tasty food.
Think baked broccoli salad and top-notch egg Benedict—perfect fuel for your snow adventures! Plus, enjoy a great selection of drinks, from signature hot chocolate to family-friendly options like marshmallow-topped treats.
Avalanche Café
Address: 458X+V8M – Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 409 4228
Pricing: AED 12 – 50
Avalanche Café, right in the heart of Ski Dubai, offers a world of delightful treats. The vegan hot chocolate is a standout for us, and you can jazz it up with toppings like chocolate shavings or marshmallows.
If you’re a tea fan, take your pick from classics like English breakfast and peppermint. Otherwise, we appreciate that this cafe also has Red Bull, slushies, and more.
And when you’re craving a snack, we suggest diving into the Nachos Supreme or Nachos Deluxe for a satisfying bite.
The Cheesecake Factory
Website: https://www.thecheesecakefactoryme.com/uae/en/home/
Address: Mall Of Emirates – Al Barsha Rd – Al Barsha – Al Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 419 0497
Pricing: AED 50 – 150
At The Cheesecake Factory at the Mall of the Emirates, we think you’re in for a treat with American-sized portions and an extensive menu featuring its iconic dessert creations and savory delights.
Our picks? Go for the veggie cheeseburger and crispy fries. Of course, definitely save room for their cheesecakes—especially the chocolate one with all its layered goodness and the peanut butter cheesecake!
Despite being a hotspot, the place has a cool vibe where you can check out some Ski Dubai action through the windows. But because of this, do note that it can get pretty crowded at the cheesecake haven.
Tribes
Website: https://www.tribesrestaurant.com/
Address: Level 2, Mall of The Emirates – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Barsha – Al Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 395 0663
Pricing: AED 100 – 150
Tribes is a must-try African restaurant at the Mall of the Emirates, offering a lively dining experience inspired by Africa’s culinary heritage.
With influences from the Spice Islands to Arabic flavors, we’re stoked that it serves up a fusion of many exotic tastes. Don’t miss their perfectly cooked steaks, ribs, and lamb chops, or try group favorites like the mixed grill platter.
Plus, we find the lively performances featuring tribal songs and instruments fascinating. We believe this adds to the immersive experience of African culture and cuisine during your visit.
Mr.Crab
Website: https://mrcrab.ae/
Address: 2 Deyaar – 22nd St – Al Barsha – Al Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 393 0730
Pricing: AED 100 – 150
After a thrilling day at Ski Dubai, Mr. Crab is right by the Mall of the Emirates. It’s spacious for chilling with friends and family after hitting the slopes. And if you’re not into dealing with mall crowds, we reckon it’s a solid pick.
Inside, it’s cozy and straightforward, focusing on serving up delicious seafood that won’t break the bank. From mussels to BBQ lobster, it’s got plenty of options, including those tasty mixed seafood buckets.
The seafood soup here is popular among regulars too! Moreover, we recommend ordering the refreshing peach ice tea—we think it complements the flavorful dishes really well.
Where to Stay near Ski Dubai
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates
Website: https://www.kempinski.com/en/mall-of-the-emirates
Address: Mall of The Emirates – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Barsha – Al Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 341 0000, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates is a posh 5-star hotel hooked up to the Mall of the Emirates. If you’ve got the budget, you could wake up in one of their plush rooms or in the quirky 3-bedroom Aspen ski chalet and gaze out at Ski Dubai from the window.
Beyond the comfy beds and fancy bathrooms, we think this place is all about relaxation. You may dine at Aspen, Salero, or Olea for mouthwatering eats or lounge by the pool with fancy toiletries and fruit-infused water.
The other perks are something else for us too. You’ve got 24/7 gym access with YouTube on the machines, a spa that’s like a sanctuary, and even a tennis court for the sporty types. Though, we think the hotel might be more suited for couples than families.
Courtyard by Marriott Al Barsha, Dubai
Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dxbcb-courtyard-al-barsha-dubai/overview/
Address: Al Barsha Rd – behind Mall of The Emirates – Al Barsha – Al Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 506 1111
Pricing: $$
Courtyard by Marriott Al Barsha, a cozy 4-star spot, sits right behind the bustling Mall of the Emirates and Ski Dubai. With a rooftop pool and easy access to Al Sufouh Beach, we believe it’s a great mix of relaxation and convenience.
The rooms are furnished with modern decor, flat-screen TVs, and minibars for that cozy stay you’re looking for. Plus, we think the gym and complimentary parking add extra ease to your stay here.
We dig that it’s close to the Mashreq Metro Station, making getting around a total breeze. And if you’re up for some thrills, attractions like Wild Wadi Water Park are just a quick drive away, so we suggest adding that to your itinerary.
Novotel Suites Dubai Mall of the Emirates
Website: https://all.accor.com/hotel/6670/index.en.shtml
Address: 2A Street – Al Barsha – Al Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 382 3200, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Novotel Suites Dubai Mall of the Emirates is a 3-star hotel with stylish suites and cool perks like a 24-hour gym, a nice pool, and free parking. We also like that guests can use the facilities at the Ibis Dubai Mall of the Emirates next door.
In our opinion, this hotel is a great spot to start your Dubai adventure. It’s only 30 minutes from the airport and close to big attractions like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina, as well as business spots like Media City and Jebel Ali Free Zone.
You’re just a short stroll from the Mall of the Emirates too! Apart from skiing, this is where you can check out fun stuff like Magic Planet and VOX Cinemas. And with the Metro Station nearby, getting around Dubai would be easy.
Millennium Al Barsha
Website: https://www.millenniumhotels.com/en/dubai/millennium-al-barsha/
Address: Al Ramth St – Al Barsha – Al Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 211 8111
Pricing: $$
Millennium Al Barsha is in the bustling Al Barsha area, just a quick walk from the Mall of the Emirates. This 4-star spot offers spacious one and 2-bedroom setups with full kitchens, making it perfect for any stay in Dubai, short or long.
We find it handy that guests aren’t far from the action either. Within a 15 to 30-minute drive, you can hit up hotspots like the World Trade Centre, Downtown Dubai, Dubai Mall, Kite Beach, and JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence).
Plus, getting to Dubai International Airport or Al Maktoum International Airport is a piece of cake for families and groups—it’s only a 30-minute ride away!
Hilton Garden Inn Dubai Mall Of The Emirates
Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dxbmegi-hilton-garden-inn-dubai-mall-of-the-emirates/
Address: 22nd St – Al Barsha – Al Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 307 0707
Pricing: $$
The Hilton Garden Inn Dubai Mall of the Emirates offers a convenient stay right off Sheikh Zayed Road. It’s next door to the bustling Mall of the Emirates and just a stone’s throw away from Ski Dubai.
We appreciate that the rooms here are your comfy retreat, stocked with a mini bar and all the stuff you’ll need for a chill stay. Plus, the Garden Grille is known to dish out tasty breakfasts and dinners, and The Shop is your go-to for snacks and drinks 24/7.
With 2 metro stations within a kilometer, exploring attractions like Al Sufouh Beach, Palm Jumeirah, and the Burj Khalifa seems hassle-free, all within a short drive from the hotel.
Tips When Visiting Ski Dubai
Now that you know all about Ski Dubai, here are some extra tips for a breezy experience all the way through:
Go all out with a Snow Classic Pass.For the ultimate blast, consider a Snow Classic Pass. It gets you all-day access to the park and slopes, plus unlimited rides on the Zorb ball (a big inflated plastic ball), snow bumpers, tubing guns, and toboggan sleds.
Dress for comfort and warmth.Stay comfy by wearing warm, snug clothes. Ski Dubai hooks you up with winter gear, but we recommend being fully decked out and sporting a skull cap (beanie) for that extra toasty feeling.
Bring your own gloves too—they might not come with your pass!
Wear pants with phone-friendly pockets.Phones and cameras aren’t allowed in the Penguin Encounter Area, so it’s smart to stash them in pants with phone-friendly pockets. Word on the street is that those penguins have a knack for gobbling up phones whole!
Get there early for ski lessons.Wanna ace your ski or snowboard lesson? Get there 40 minutes early, as recommended by Ski Dubai. It’s all about being prepped and ready to hit the slopes!
Warm up those muscles.
Some aren’t fond of it, but it’s best to do a quick warm-up before hitting the slopes to prep your muscles. Also, take breaks to avoid getting too tired, and stick to runs that match your skill level. Keep it chill and stay safe!
Apps to Download before Going to Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai: Score tickets, map out your adventure, and keep tabs on your account.
iOs | Android
Mall of the Emirates: Make driving more convenient with reserved or valet parking.
Ski Tracks: Track your ski stats like speed, distance, and more.