Snow Sports

Snow in the desert? Why not? Dubai is known for refusing to attempt the impossible, and have made sure there are subzero activities indoors despite the heat outside. Residents and tourists commonly partake in these adventures, particularly when the summer heat makes many outdoor sports undesirable.

Al Nasr Leisureland. Al Nasr Leisureland is a glimpse back into the old era of expat Dubai. The center may be very dated, but it's cheap and has an Olympic-size rink. Leisure skating, ice shows, and ice-hockey are all available. Schedules vary week to week, so call ahead or go online for details. Thirty-minute individual and group lessons are available. Skate-hire is also available. 15th St., Oud Metha, The South Bank, Dubai, Dubai. 4/337–1234; www.alnasrll.com. AED25 for 2 hrs casual skating, including skate hire.

Dubai Ice Rink. This modern rink is situated in the middle of the world's biggest shopping mall, and is surrounded by stores, cafés, and restaurants. Not only for casual skaters, there is an excellent academy with lessons, and schedules of hockey and competitions running throughout the week. At night the disco lights come on for a bit of fun. Dubai Mall, , Doha St., Downtown Burj Khalifa, World Trade Centre, Dubai, Dubai. 4/448--5111; www.dubaiicerink.com. AED60 for 105 min, including skate rental.

Ski Dubai. Snow play, tobogganing, skiing, snowboarding, zip-lining, and more are available here. There's even a family of penguins on view. This enormous (22,500 square meters) indoor fridge has machine-made snow, and offers the closest Dubai gets to an authentic winter wonderland, right down to the mid-slope chalet with stupendous hot chocolates. Lessons are available, even for a one-off. Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Rd., Al Barsha 1, Ground fl., Burj Dubai, Dubai, Dubai. 800/386; www.theplaymania.com/skidubai. From around AED200, depending on package.