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6 Ways To Enjoy Dubai In The Summer
Summer is not the most popular time to visit Dubai, mostly because of the weather. And the weather is a definitely a factor to consider. Temperatures during the day in August can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius, with the nights cooling down to a balmy 28 degrees. But hot outdoor temperatures are no reason to stay away from this desert oasis. On the contrary, these months are a great time to enjoy the many amazing things Dubai has built to make indoor life as much fun as outdoor life – but with air conditioning! And because it’s low season for tourists, there are great deals to be had at attractions and hotels, without the same crowds. Here are six things to check out in Dubai this summer:
1. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
The million-litre Dubai Aquarium, located in The Dubai Mall, is home to 140 different fish, amphibians and mammals. This attraction is about more than just watching fish. The Aquarium has a virtual reality zoo, (VRZOO), and the Underwater Zoo where you can see the Aquarium’s 750kg crocodile. There is also an amazing underwater experience where you can safely get up close to sharks as part of the Aquarium’s shark conservation program. Access to all these exhibits requires paying the entry fee to the Aquarium, but if you just want to see some underwater animals, you don’t even need to pay. You can watch them through the huge viewing panel for free inside the mall.
2. Ski Dubai
You wouldn’t expect to find a ski resort in the Middle East, but that’s exactly what Dubai has built, inside a mall no less! Ski Dubai is the world’s largest indoor snow park, located on the ground floor inside Mall of the Emirates. The snow park offers activities such as the giant zorbing ball, the ice cave and the Mountain Thriller ride. If it’s some downhill action you’re looking for, hit the indoor slopes for skiing, snowboarding, bobsled runs and sledding. With everything from beginners’ slopes to black diamond runs, Ski Dubai has something for everyone, including clothing and gear rentals for the whole family. After you’ve worked up an appetite, enjoy a meal at one of the on-site theme restaurants. And don’t forget to visit the snow penguins!
3. Aquaventure Waterpark
Located in The Palm, Atlantis, the award-winning Aquaventure Waterpark will get your blood pumping and heart racing or give the grownups some relaxing time while the kids enjoy the park. With something for everyone, the park offers water slides, river rides, and a splash and play area for little ones. You can get up close with sharks for a safe and fun-filled adventure in the Shark Lagoon or kick back and relax on the private sand beach. Thrill-seekers will want to try Aquaconda, the largest waterslide in the world. And as always, there’s plenty of food and drinks to make sure you have energy for the whole day.
4. The Green Planet
In the desert of Dubai, dreams become reality. And that’s how you get to find yourself in the middle of a rainforest when you visit the Green Planet. This indoor ecosystem is home to over 3000 different types of vegetation, insects and animals. An 82-foot-tall artificial tree stands in the middle of it all, and is the centrepiece in which many of the plants and animals thrive. With the temperature a tropical 77-82 degrees and humid, visitors can walk a suspension bridge to the top of the tree, to catch the best view of South American toucans, two-toed sloths, tree boas and more. A great place to learn about wildlife and enjoy with the whole family.
5. Burj Khalifa
At over 2700 feet and 160 stories, the Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, offering impressive views from the observation deck of some of Dubai’s most famous landmarks. But it’s not just about the view. The Burj also has a high-end gym and fitness centre, indoor and outdoor pools, and a ladies-only floor with its own gym and spa. Grab some food and drinks in the Sky Lounge.
6. Shop Till You Drop
Dubai is famous for its shopping, and for good reason. The Dubai Mall has over 1200 retail and entertainment options to keep you cool in the hot summer months. In this space spanning over 200 football fields, there is something for everyone in the family. From high end stores like Burberry and Versace, the Dubai Aquarium, a skating rink and a movie theatre, the Dubai Mall is an adventure waiting to be discovered. And when you get bored of that, head over to the Mall of the Emirates. Home of Ski Dubai, this mall also has shopping for the whole family, food for the pickiest eaters and movies to keep you entertained. Save some time to visit the Magic Planet entertainment centre. With classic and new arcade games, bowling and more, Magic Planet is an adventure unto itself!
