The best spots in Dubai for adventure seekers

The skyline of Dubai is one of the world’s newest, and most recognisable landscapes.

Dubai is renowned for its towering steel and glass metropolis rising high above the desert, lavish hotels and restaurants and world-class shopping, but it is also a fantastic place for those looking for an adventurous holiday. I’ve put together a list of things that make Dubai one of the world’s best places for an adrenaline-fuelled trip, from carving through sand dunes to flying through the Arabian air.

A nature escape: Hatta

Why not try a spot of Kayaking at Hatta Dam?

If you’re a thrill-seeker or a nature lover, you’ll be right at home in Hatta – just a 90-minute drive from central Dubai. Once known for its fort and desert farms, the park now has mountain biking, hiking and kayaking across the rocky outcrops and bodies of water that make up this area of the Hajar mountain range.

Hajar is home to a purpose-built mountain bike track, while the glistening lake of Hatta Dam provides a picturesque location to grab your paddle and take to the water in a kayak.

Scraping the sky: XLine Dubai Marina

Former world number three tennis player, Grigor Dimitrov, tries out XLine Dubai Marina.

More suited to daredevils than your average adventurer, one of Dubai’s newest attractions, the XLine, will have you flying across the city at speeds of up to 50 miles per hour, offering exclusive views of the glamourous Dubai Marina before landing on the terrace of Dubai Marina Mall.

One kilometre in length and with side-by-side ziplines, you can enjoy the experience with a friend or family member and capture your epic journey with GoPros which are attached to your helmet, ensuring you’ll always have something to remember it by.

Sun, sand and so much fun: Kite Beach

Kite Beach is popular with both tourists and locals.

If you’re looking for coastal fun with a little difference in Dubai, Kite Beach should be your destination. Kitesurfers regularly flock to this aptly-named beach to test their skills against the emerald waters of the Arabian gulf, even busting out cool tricks and moves when the wind and waves pick up in the afternoon.

There’s also plenty of space to spread out and soak up the sun along the lively stretch of golden sand if you want some rest and relaxation, while SALT – a Kite Beach hotspot which has evolved from being a food truck into a beachside terrace – will keep you refreshed with its famous pink lemonade and lotus shakes, as well as a casual menu featuring favourites such as sliders and ‘softies’ ice cream.

Super safari: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

You can trek with, or ride, camels at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

While you won’t see the Big Five, a trip to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve will leave you with unforgettable memories. Spot regional wildlife such as the Arabian Oryx and gazelles galore, and if you want to crank things up a notch you can also take a camel ride or carve your way down giant dunes on a sandboard.

There is also an option for a night safari that offers stargazing. Without the city’s light pollution, the night’s sky comes alive with millions of stars, and the luminous exoskeletons of scorpions are also visible in the sand. Or try a sunset viewing with a three-course buffet dinner served at a Bedouin-style desert camp.

Ride the dunes: Dubai’s desert

Aside from incredible desert safaris, there are other desert adventures you can enjoy across the emirate of Dubai. Feel the thrill of travelling across the Arabian desert on a dune buggy or quad bike ride. With roll cages, bucket seats and a safety harness, you’ll be able to enjoy the desert in the open air as you tackle dunes featuring breathtaking 45-degree slopes.