13 of the best adventures to have in the UAE this long weekend
A long weekend is coming soon, which means more time to do the things you've been putting off. If you're a thrill seeker, adrenaline-junkie, or just generally into adventures of all kinds, there is no shortage of experiences across the UAE. Take your pick. For the desert lovers… Night Safari with Arabian Adventures
This evening desert safari with Arabian Adventures ensures that you get a taste of that quintessential UAE experience wile staying out of the daytime summer heat. Discover the charm of the Dubai desert, a world of natural wonder, indigenous wildlife, and Bedouin culture, along with fun desert sports.
Offer: Starts from Dhs431
Location: Dubai Desert
Contact: : ( 800) 272 2426
@arabianadventures Overnight Safari by Arabian Adventures
This all-inclusive overnight desert safari is a UAE staycation must. Camp out in a deluxe tent on a raised platform with a world of amenities and experiences to complete your stay. Included in the package is a thrilling dune drive, camel ride, walking night safari, waiter service, set menu BBQ dinner and more.
Offer: Starts from Dhs1,790
Location: Dubai Desert
Contact: : ( 800) 272 2426
@arabianadventures Hot Air Balloon with Hero Balloon Flights
This is the hot air balloon experience of your dreams, because it's not just a hot air balloon ride. The balloon flight takes you over the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, offering spectacular views of the sands, sky and sunrise from 3,000 feet above. The complete package features the ride, a breakfast and a ride in a vintage Defender.
Offer: Starts from Dhs1,995
Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Contact: ( 0) 4 412 6333
@heroballoonsdubai For the street crawlers… Parkour at XPark
Located just a few hops, kick-flips and jumps away from Kite Beach – XDubai has long been a half-pipe haven for the UAE's skatewardly mobile. Traceurs can explore the Path of Discovery, challenging themselves on the parkour loop, scaling new heights at the 20-foot climbing tower.
Offer: Starts from Dhs75
Times: Sunday to Friday, 2.30pm to 5.30pm, 6pm to 9.30pm, Saturday, 8am to 11.30am, 2.30pm to 5.30pm, 6pm to 9.30pm
Location: XPark Dubai, Kite Beach
Contact: ( 0) 56 416 3585
@xdubai Skateboarding at Circuit X
Hudayriat Island is one of Abu Dhabi's most impressive alfresco adventure hubs and amongst its many assorted attractions is the Circuit X skate park. You can try three separate bowls of varying difficulty level, practice lip tricks on ledges, grind rails, smash quarter pipes, and cruise through a simulated urban skate section.
Offer: Starts from Dhs40
Times: Monday to Thursday, 2pm to 10pm, Friday, 2pm to 11pm, Saturday and Sunday, from 9am to 11pm
Location: Circuit X, Hudayriat Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: ( 0) 2 691 0302
@circuitx_hudayriyat For the water babies… Sailing with Wind Rises
Whether you're a seasoned sailor or dipping your toes into the world of sailing for the first time, the Wind Rises sailing experience promises thrills, stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, and a whole lot of joy. They have a number of sailing options to choose from, and you can even prepare with them for competitions.
Offer: Starts from Dhs200 per person on weekdays
Location: Wind Rises, Port Rashid, Dubai
Contact: ( 0) 58 106 5026
@windrisesdubai Surfing at Surf Abu Dhabi
Seasoned and budding surfers, head over to Surf Abu Dhabi, the world's biggest and most advanced artificial wave facility. You can choose from open sessions tailored to beginner, intermediate and advanced surfers, as well as 1-on-1 surfing lessons, and an entire 90-minute surf trip for you and 5 other surfers.
Offer: Starts from Dhs600
Times: Daily, 9am to 10pm
Location: Surf Abu Dhabi, Hudayriat Island
Contact: @surfabudhabi Scuba diving at Deep Dive Dubai
Deep Dive Dubai has the worlds largest indoor pool for diving, with the terrifying depth of 6o metres. Of course, if you're an experienced diver with a license you can go all the way and explore, but if you're a beginner or looking to get into diving, the expert instructors will guide you through the whole process.
Offer: Starts from Dhs1,800
Times: Daily, 9am to 6pm
Location: NAS Sports Complex, Dubai
Contact: (0) 4 501 9444
@deepdivedubai Wakeboarding at Wake Dubai
Wake Dubai has long offered instructor-led and independent-led sessions, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned surfers. A professional team of captains and instructors are at your service to ensure a safe and thrilling ride that will have you up on the waves in no time.
Offer: From Dhs350
Times: Daily, 6am to 5.30pm
Location: Dubai Marina and Dubai Creek
Contact: : ( 0) 56 108 4599
@wake_dubai For the sky-high thrill seekers… XLine
The XLine zipline is as thrilling as it gets, with a one-kilometre-long zipline that will see you soaring over Dubai Marina at up to 80 kilometres per hour. This is the longest urban zipline in the world, and offers stunning views of the Dubai Marina skyline as you soar away.
Offer: From Dhs350
Times: Daily, 9.45am to 12.20pm, 1.45pm to 5pm
Location: Dubai Marina
Contact: : (0) 56 507 6366
@x_line Skydiving at Skydive Dubai
A bucket list attraction for many, Skydive Dubai attracts divers from far and wide. If jumping out of a plane several thousand feet above the ground sounds like your idea of fun, take this weekend as your sign to book in your slot. It's a one-of-a-kind Dubai experience.
Offer: From Dhs2,199
Location: Dubai Marina
Contact: : (0) 4 377 8888
@skydivedubai Jebel Jais Zip Line in Ras Al Khaimah
This zipline in the longest zipline in the world and you can only imagine how amazing the views would be. The journey takes thrill seekers on a 2.83km journey through the Hajar mountains at an eye-watering 1,680 metres above sea level. Riders can expect to reach speeds of up to a hair-raising 120km/h.
Offer: From Dhs250
Location: Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah
Contact: : (0) 4 815 7333
visitjabaljais.com Flying at Jazirah Aviation Club
For something a little different, head to Ras Al Khaimah's unique Jazirah Aviation Club. This centre has been running for 25 years, and invites budding pilots and aviation enthusiasts to enjoy tours of the skies in its colourful small planes and even get a go at flying the plane yourself.
Timings: Monday to Wednesday, 8am to 6pm
Location: Jazirah Aviation Club
Contact: : (0) 7 244 6416
@jazirah.aviation
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Renowned Emirati poet Rashid Sharar honoured in a ceremony held in Dubai
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What's On
3 days ago
- What's On
13 of the best adventures to have in the UAE this long weekend
A long weekend is coming soon, which means more time to do the things you've been putting off. If you're a thrill seeker, adrenaline-junkie, or just generally into adventures of all kinds, there is no shortage of experiences across the UAE. Take your pick. For the desert lovers… Night Safari with Arabian Adventures This evening desert safari with Arabian Adventures ensures that you get a taste of that quintessential UAE experience wile staying out of the daytime summer heat. Discover the charm of the Dubai desert, a world of natural wonder, indigenous wildlife, and Bedouin culture, along with fun desert sports. Offer: Starts from Dhs431 Location: Dubai Desert Contact: : ( 800) 272 2426 @arabianadventures Overnight Safari by Arabian Adventures This all-inclusive overnight desert safari is a UAE staycation must. Camp out in a deluxe tent on a raised platform with a world of amenities and experiences to complete your stay. Included in the package is a thrilling dune drive, camel ride, walking night safari, waiter service, set menu BBQ dinner and more. Offer: Starts from Dhs1,790 Location: Dubai Desert Contact: : ( 800) 272 2426 @arabianadventures Hot Air Balloon with Hero Balloon Flights This is the hot air balloon experience of your dreams, because it's not just a hot air balloon ride. The balloon flight takes you over the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, offering spectacular views of the sands, sky and sunrise from 3,000 feet above. The complete package features the ride, a breakfast and a ride in a vintage Defender. Offer: Starts from Dhs1,995 Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve Contact: ( 0) 4 412 6333 @heroballoonsdubai For the street crawlers… Parkour at XPark Located just a few hops, kick-flips and jumps away from Kite Beach – XDubai has long been a half-pipe haven for the UAE's skatewardly mobile. Traceurs can explore the Path of Discovery, challenging themselves on the parkour loop, scaling new heights at the 20-foot climbing tower. Offer: Starts from Dhs75 Times: Sunday to Friday, 2.30pm to 5.30pm, 6pm to 9.30pm, Saturday, 8am to 11.30am, 2.30pm to 5.30pm, 6pm to 9.30pm Location: XPark Dubai, Kite Beach Contact: ( 0) 56 416 3585 @xdubai Skateboarding at Circuit X Hudayriat Island is one of Abu Dhabi's most impressive alfresco adventure hubs and amongst its many assorted attractions is the Circuit X skate park. You can try three separate bowls of varying difficulty level, practice lip tricks on ledges, grind rails, smash quarter pipes, and cruise through a simulated urban skate section. Offer: Starts from Dhs40 Times: Monday to Thursday, 2pm to 10pm, Friday, 2pm to 11pm, Saturday and Sunday, from 9am to 11pm Location: Circuit X, Hudayriat Island, Abu Dhabi Contact: ( 0) 2 691 0302 @circuitx_hudayriyat For the water babies… Sailing with Wind Rises Whether you're a seasoned sailor or dipping your toes into the world of sailing for the first time, the Wind Rises sailing experience promises thrills, stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, and a whole lot of joy. They have a number of sailing options to choose from, and you can even prepare with them for competitions. Offer: Starts from Dhs200 per person on weekdays Location: Wind Rises, Port Rashid, Dubai Contact: ( 0) 58 106 5026 @windrisesdubai Surfing at Surf Abu Dhabi Seasoned and budding surfers, head over to Surf Abu Dhabi, the world's biggest and most advanced artificial wave facility. You can choose from open sessions tailored to beginner, intermediate and advanced surfers, as well as 1-on-1 surfing lessons, and an entire 90-minute surf trip for you and 5 other surfers. Offer: Starts from Dhs600 Times: Daily, 9am to 10pm Location: Surf Abu Dhabi, Hudayriat Island Contact: @surfabudhabi Scuba diving at Deep Dive Dubai Deep Dive Dubai has the worlds largest indoor pool for diving, with the terrifying depth of 6o metres. Of course, if you're an experienced diver with a license you can go all the way and explore, but if you're a beginner or looking to get into diving, the expert instructors will guide you through the whole process. Offer: Starts from Dhs1,800 Times: Daily, 9am to 6pm Location: NAS Sports Complex, Dubai Contact: (0) 4 501 9444 @deepdivedubai Wakeboarding at Wake Dubai Wake Dubai has long offered instructor-led and independent-led sessions, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned surfers. A professional team of captains and instructors are at your service to ensure a safe and thrilling ride that will have you up on the waves in no time. Offer: From Dhs350 Times: Daily, 6am to 5.30pm Location: Dubai Marina and Dubai Creek Contact: : ( 0) 56 108 4599 @wake_dubai For the sky-high thrill seekers… XLine The XLine zipline is as thrilling as it gets, with a one-kilometre-long zipline that will see you soaring over Dubai Marina at up to 80 kilometres per hour. This is the longest urban zipline in the world, and offers stunning views of the Dubai Marina skyline as you soar away. Offer: From Dhs350 Times: Daily, 9.45am to 12.20pm, 1.45pm to 5pm Location: Dubai Marina Contact: : (0) 56 507 6366 @x_line Skydiving at Skydive Dubai A bucket list attraction for many, Skydive Dubai attracts divers from far and wide. If jumping out of a plane several thousand feet above the ground sounds like your idea of fun, take this weekend as your sign to book in your slot. It's a one-of-a-kind Dubai experience. Offer: From Dhs2,199 Location: Dubai Marina Contact: : (0) 4 377 8888 @skydivedubai Jebel Jais Zip Line in Ras Al Khaimah This zipline in the longest zipline in the world and you can only imagine how amazing the views would be. The journey takes thrill seekers on a 2.83km journey through the Hajar mountains at an eye-watering 1,680 metres above sea level. Riders can expect to reach speeds of up to a hair-raising 120km/h. Offer: From Dhs250 Location: Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah Contact: : (0) 4 815 7333 Flying at Jazirah Aviation Club For something a little different, head to Ras Al Khaimah's unique Jazirah Aviation Club. This centre has been running for 25 years, and invites budding pilots and aviation enthusiasts to enjoy tours of the skies in its colourful small planes and even get a go at flying the plane yourself. Timings: Monday to Wednesday, 8am to 6pm Location: Jazirah Aviation Club Contact: : (0) 7 244 6416 @ Images: Socials
Time Out Abu Dhabi
13-06-2025
- Time Out Abu Dhabi
These are the best summer camps to book in Abu Dhabi in 2025
School's out, and energy levels are through the roof, but fear not, parents. Whether your little ones are thrill-seekers, future foodies, mini Michelangelos or junior astronauts, there's a summer camp in Abu Dhabi with their name on it. From snowball fights in July (yes, really) and trampoline-fuelled fun to cooking classes, science experiments, and skydiving simulations, the capital is packed with epic ways to keep kids entertained, inspired, and off their screens (at least for a while). We've rounded up the coolest camps across the city – all you need to do is book, pack a snack, and prepare for tired, happy kids by pick-up time. Let the summer adventures begin. Abu Dhabi summer camps BOUNCE camp BOUNCE Holiday Camp is back to take your kids' energy to new heights. From trampoline tricks to team games, every session is packed with fun, learning and new friendships. It's hosted by trained pros and the camp runs at all BOUNCE and miniBOUNCE venues across the UAE. Dhs210 (half day), Dhs840 (half day/week), Dhs300 (full day), Dhs1,100 (full week). Mon-Fri, Jun 30-Aug 29. Half Day: 8am-1.30pm or 1.30pm-5pm. Full Day: 8am-5pm. Various venues. Children's House Montessori – Desert Safari Adventure Camp Little explorers aged 45 days to 6 years can dive into a desert-y world of wonder at CHM's Desert Safari Adventure Camp. From June 30 to August 22, kids will enjoy sensory play, splash park fun, music, movement, and Montessori-inspired activities. Contact for pricing. Mon-Fri, Jun 30-Aug 22. Children's House Montessori. (02 444 1150 / 056 471 2900). CLYMB's junior flying club Got a little thrill-seeker at home? CLYMB Abu Dhabi's Junior Flying Club is the perfect summer outlet. Kids aged 3 to 14 can take to the skies in the world's largest indoor skydiving chamber, with 20 flights split across four adrenaline-pumping sessions. It's sky-high fun – minus the furniture jumps at home. Dhs1,999. Until Aug 15. CLYMB, Yas Island. Children's Library workshops The Children's Library at the Cultural Foundation might not run a traditional summer camp, but it's packed with hands-on workshops to keep young minds inspired. From ceramics to painting and pottery, kids aged 6 to 14 can dive into fun, creative sessions all summer long. From Dhs210 (four classes). Dates and times vary. Children's Library, Cultural Foundation, Al Hisn. Circuit X's summer camp Get ready to swap screens for summer thrills at Circuit X's Island Adventures Summer Camp. Inspired by Sinbad's epic journeys, kids aged 6 to 14 will dive into rope climbing, BMX, skateboarding, water games, arts and crafts, science fun, and even pizza-making. It's a non-stop adventure from start to finish. Dhs210 (daily), Dhs260 (extended day), Dhs849 (weekly), Dhs995 (extended week), Dhs2,690 (monthly), Dhs3,050 (extended month). Mon-Fri, Jun 30-Aug 22. Full day: 8.30am-2pm, Extended: 8.30am-5pm. Circuit X, Hudayriyat Island. École Ducasse's culinary summer camp Whisk your kids away on a culinary journey at École Ducasse Abu Dhabi Studio. From cookies and tarts to Emirati and international dishes, little chefs aged 6+ will master kitchen skills under expert guidance. It's hands-on, delicious, and perfect for budding foodies. Dhs1,050 per week. Tue-Fri, Jul 2-Aug 23, 3pm-5pm. Cultural Foundation, Al Hisn. Discounts available for siblings and multi-week bookings. info@ (052 663 7689). Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental's Kids Palace Kids Palace is a magical space designed to inspire, educate, and entertain. With themed play zones, educational activities, and a focus on sustainability and diversity, it's a day full of discovery and fun. Whether it's a two-hour visit or a full-day escape, every moment is packed with purpose and play. Dhs180 (2-hour minimum), Dhs360 (half day with meal), Dhs720 (full day with two meals). Daily 8am-6pm. Kids Palace, Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental. moauh-kidspalace@ (02 690 7220). Little Acres Kids Club Located at Yas Acres Golf & Country Club, Little Acres Kids Club is the ultimate play destination for little ones. With indoor and outdoor fun zones, arts and crafts stations, and guided group activities, it's a vibrant, safe space where kids can explore, create, and grow. Designed for children up to 7 years old, it's perfect for families seeking fun with peace of mind. From Dhs65 (1-hour guest rate), Dhs150 (full-day guest rate). Open daily 8am-7pm. Yas Acres Golf & Country Club. (02 208 7300). Louvre Abu Dhabi's Summer Space Camp Blast off into a summer of creativity and cosmic exploration at Louvre Abu Dhabi's Summer Space Camp. This immersive camp isn't just about stars and space suits — it's designed to teach aspiring young astronauts (aged 5 to 12) life skills like teamwork, focus, and leadership through interactive art and space-themed challenges. Running in three waves across July and early August, each 3-hour workshop blends art, fitness, cultural engagement, and critical thinking to build confident, curious mini-explorers ready to conquer any galaxy (or group project). From problem-solving to time management, this camp is a mission in fun, personal growth, and a little interstellar imagination. Dhs400. Tue-Fri, July 1-4, July 8-11, or July 29-Aug 1. Louvre Abu Dhabi. Seaworld camp Let your kids dive into a world of marine discovery at SeaWorld Abu Dhabi's Ocean Explorers Camp. Perfect for ages 7 to 12, this five-day adventure is packed with hands-on learning, animal encounters, movement games, and themed challenges inspired by ocean life. Plus, campers get daily lunch and cool SeaWorld gear. Dhs1,200 per week. Mon-Fri, Jul 7-Aug 15, 10.30am-4pm. SeaWorld, Yas Island. Snow Abu Dhabi's summer camp This summer, swap the sun for snow at Snow Abu Dhabi Summer Camp. Kids aged 4-10 can chill out with full-day fun including snow park rides, snowman building, magic shows, workshops, fitness games, and even VOX movie trips – all for Dhs4,000. Dhs4,000 per child. Mon-Fri, Jul 17-Aug 31, 9am-5pm. Snow Abu Dhabi, Reem Mall, The National Aquarium kids' camp It's the summer camp that's got it all. Budding marine biologists can dive into conservation and animal encounters at The National Aquarium, level up their skills at Pixoul Gaming with VR and game dev workshops, then conquer thrilling confidence courses at Adrenark Adventure Park. Three epic experiences, one unforgettable summer. Prices TBC. Jun 30-Aug National Aquarium, Al Qana. @pixoulgaming, @adrenarkuae. Yas Island summer camp This isn't just a summer camp – it's five world-class theme parks, and one unforgettable adventure! From July 7 to August 22, kids aged 4+ can dive into science at Ferrari World, explore marine heritage at Yas Waterworld, become superheroes at Warner Bros. World, learn ocean conservation at SeaWorld, and conquer gravity at CLYMB. Each day brings new thrills, creative challenges, and immersive experiences. Dhs2,499 per week (includes camper kit, T-shirt, and lunch). Mon-Fri, Jul 7-Aug 22, 9am-2pm. Yas Island. Zayed Sports City's ice rink kids camp Glide into summer at the Ice Rink Kids Camp at Zayed Sports City. Running from July 7 to August 22, kids aged 5 to 12 can learn to skate, play on-ice games, and have a blast with expert coaching. Whether they're total beginners or brushing up their skills, it's cool fun all summer long. Limited spots (max 45 per day). From Dhs190. Mon-Fri, 8.45am-1pm. Zayed Sports City. ZSC Summer Kids Camp by Haraka Let the kids stay active and screen-free this summer at Zayed Sports City's action-packed camp. From June 30 to August 22, children aged 5 to 12 can enjoy a full day of sports, games and fun activities, all aimed at building a lifelong love for fitness. Kids can join for one day, one week, or the entire summer and early booking is recommended. From Dhs225. 5–12 years. Monday to Friday, 7.45am-3pm. Zayed Sports City. Summer in Abu Dhabi The 27 best things to do indoors this summer in Abu Dhabi It's time for some air-conditioned bliss Psst: This is when summer officially starts in Abu Dhabi No complaints here Yas Waterworld's epic new expansion is opening this summer – including 12 new slides Weeeeee! 25 brilliant beach and pool day passes in Abu Dhabi Grab your SPF – a lush day by the water awaits
