Ski Dubai

The basics

The idea of skiing on real snow in the desert is so very Dubai and when it's over 100°F (38°C) outside, stepping into this indoor winter wonderland can be a surreal relief. Skiers can choose between five runs and a freestyle zone outfitted with rails and jumps; while the vertical drop is only 196 feet (60 meters), Ski Dubai's "mountain" is a fun novelty.

Non-skiers can ride toboggans, take a spin on the ski lift, observe Ski Dubai's resident colony of Gentoo and king penguins, or soar above the faux mountain on the Snow Bullet zipline. You can buy Ski Dubai tickets to suit you.

Things to know before you go

• Ski Dubai tours are a must for families and active travelers.

• Choose between a single attraction ticket and an unlimited park pass.

• All equipment and winter gear are included, but remember to bring a hat and gloves.

• New skiers can sign up for a lesson from ski instructors at the Ski Dubai ski school.

• Lockers are available for a small fee.

• Two cafés offer areas to relax and sip hot chocolate in the 25°F (-4°C) weather.

How to get there

Ski Dubai is inside the Mall of the Emirates, one of the largest malls in the world. The easiest way to get there is by riding the metro red line to the Mall of the Emirates station. If you’re arriving by car, there’s plenty of parking available in the Mall of Emirates lots.

When to get there

Ski Dubai is open and snow-covered throughout the year, so there isn't really a bad time to visit. As one of Dubai's most popular attractions, especially when outdoor temperatures start to soar, it's a good idea to book in advance. Guests interested in the penguin encounter should plan to book at least a day in advance.

Skiing up an appetite

Skiers and nonskiers alike should set aside some time to visit the site's Avalanche Café. Located mid-slope and accessible via the chairlift or a short uphill climb, this alpine-themed eatery is the perfect setting for people-watching and sipping hot chocolate. The St Moritz Café, located at the Ski Dubai entrance, serves heartier fare, including burgers and French onion soup.

Ways to explore

Dedicate a few hours or a whole day to Ski Dubai. While you can buy tickets on-site, prebooking online guarantees entry, helps you bypass ticket-counter lines and score online-only discounts, and adds convenient private or group return transportation.

Standard tickets provide one-time or full-day Snow Park entry, with optional upgrades to include a ski-slope pass, penguin encounter, ziplining, and ski or snowboard lessons. You can also purchase standalone slope passes and penguin encounters. Alternatively, book a Dubai-wide city tour that includes Ski Dubai entry, or a combo that tacks on attractions such as the Dubai Frame or Sky Views Observatory.

Accessibility

Many Ski Dubai attractions, including the ski runs, are not wheelchair accessible. However, some activities and facilities may be available to people using wheelchairs, including penguin encounters, sled rides, viewing areas, and restaurants. Contact the venue directly for more information.

Age limits

Children under 2 aren’t permitted inside Ski Dubai, while those under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Children under 3 are not allowed on the slopes.

What to pack

Waterproof phone pouch, lip balm, tissues for runny noses aggravated by the cold

What to wear

Thermal layers, socks, hat, scarf to team with supplied clothing

Not allowed

Drinking alcohol, smoking, outside food/beverages, rude behavior

Amenities

Changing rooms and lockers at Ski Dubai, restrooms and Wi-Fi available at the Mall of the Emirates

Address 

Ski Dubai is located inside the Mall of the Emirates, about midway between Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina, and is easily reachable by road and public transit. Booking online tickets that include round-trip transportation is a hassle-free way to visit.

Driving

Join the Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), leave at Interchange 4 for the Mall of the Emirates, and park at the mall’s multistory parking lot (parking is free for the first few hours).

Public transportation

Ride Dubai Metro’s Red Line to the Mall of the Emirates and then follow the Ski Dubai signs—it’s a roughly 10-minute indoor walk to the complex. Multiple buses connect to the mall, including the 81, 84, and 93.

Best times to visit

Arriving at, or near, opening time will help you beat the crowds—visitors peak mid-afternoon through mid-evening—and enjoy shorter waits for the slopes and rides.

Best days to visit

Weekdays are quieter, and ride lines are shorter than during Dubai’s weekends (Friday and Saturday). Weekends are at their busiest during peak season (November–March).

Best months to visit

Ski Dubai comes into its own during Dubai’s summers, when it offers a brilliant and uncrowded retreat from the heat.

Special events

Ski Dubai celebrates Halloween with a ghost village and spooky-themed activities. It also hosts a Winter Wonderland festival each December featuring Christmas decorations, Santa Claus, and ice sculptures.