Things to do in Dubai: Water Sports

If you want to try out a new water sport this winter, then Dubai is the perfect place to get started. There are so many types of activities to get involved in, whether flying solo or with friends. Here’s a run-down of our top 5.

WAKEBOARDING

Dubai is definitely the perfect place to learn some wakeboarding skills. An early morning start will give you the best conditions as the water is nice and calm. If you’ve tried snowboarding, skateboarding or even surfing before, you should find it quite easy to get into this sport. Here are two options to try as a beginner:

• Rent a boat and spend an afternoon on the water with your friends. A 20-30 minute session per person is the best value and you can pick up tips from one another, or have an instructor take you out on the water to learn from a pro.

• Head to the Wake Park in Abu Dhabi. You’ll be pulled by a cable and the conditions are perfect for a beginner wakeboarding session as the lake is flat. A 2 hour-session per person is the best option to go for which will help you to learn all the basics.

SURFING

Dubai may not be renowned as the most exciting surf spot, but there are definitely waves in Dubai – particularly during the winter months. Rent your board for 2 hours or the whole day at Surf House Dubai, and learn how to catch a wave. Always check the water conditions before you head out so you know what the conditions will be like. If you’re a beginner then the small waves that Dubai offers will actually be perfect for you. You’ll want to start off with a long board as this will provide more stability as you learn to pop up on the board. You’ll have better stability in the water and will probably stand up after few tries.

JET SKIING

When it comes to water sports in Dubai, jet skiing is a favourite. The speed sensation that you experience on the water is one not to be missed. Go with your friends and rent a few jet skis for an amazing tour of Dubai; from Dubai Marina to the Palm Jumeirah, you’ll enjoy a unique view of the city.

KITE SURFING

Dubai has become renowned for kite surfing and there are many kite surfing enthusiasts in the region – you’ll see them congregate at Kite Beach as the skyline fills with kites meandering about. You’ll need approximately 10 lessons to go solo as this isn’t the easiest skill to master. Moreover, it isn’t a cheap sport, so be sure to save some money before you take it on as a hobby. Once you get the hang of it you will be able to ride whenever and wherever you please.

STAND-UP PADDLE

The sea in Dubai will remain nice and clam pretty much every morning until about 10.30am. These are the conditions you will need if you want to go for a stand-up paddle boarding session. You’ll be able to rent your board from many places at the various beaches, which makes this a really accessible sport to do at the weekend. Paddle boarding is a great exercise for all of your muscles and you’ll develop your stability as well. If you don’t feel confident at the beginning, start by riding on your knees before you build up the strength and confidence to stand up.

Before you head out on the water take a look through the Sun & Sand Sports website: the surfing and swimming sections will have just what you need for your next water sporting adventure.