Life can get a little bit boring and mundane at times. Why go to the same mall, or your usual beach when you can switch things up and get in touch with your wild side? What you really need is something thrilling that gets your adrenaline pumping and your blood rushing, to get you out of that annoying rut.
When it comes to adventure sports, the Middle East is not far behind at all. Team Cosmo has compiled a list of some of the most exciting activities for adrenaline junkies that you should check out right now!
1) Explore the skies of Dubai
Jumping out of a plane, and free falling for over 60 seconds at over 120mph into the breath-taking view of Dubai is something that most people wish to cross off their bucket list. Enjoyed by tourists and locals alike, skydiving is one of the most thrilling activities to do in Dubai, where you can also appreciate the stunning coastal desert landscape. Jump from an altitude of 4000 metres to quench your thirst for adventure, while miles high in the sky. Jumping from the Palm Drop Zone gives you the best views of the Burj Khalifa, the Burj Al Arab and the Palm Jumeriah. Don’t fret over doing it solo as you’ll be given the choice of jumping with a well-experienced instructor. Those who wish to dive over the desert landscape can do so at the Desert Drop Zone which is located 35 kilometres in the desert. A camera man also jumps ahead of you to snap cool shots, and film this awesome experience. Get more information here.
2) Go zip lining at Jebal Jais
This one is for the bravest amongst the brave. The city of Ras Al Khaimah is home to the Jebal Jais Flight, the world’s longest zipline which lets you fly at speeds of up to 150kmph, while hanging 1,680 metres above sea level (told you, it isn’t for the faint hearted) At over 2 kilometres long, you’ll be soaring from the UAE’s highest peak. Share the thrill by flying alongside friends or family as there are two lines, side-by-side. This terrifying yet exhilarating ride that allows you to soar to new heights amongst the beautiful, rocky mountains of Jebel Jais might is totally worth the Dhs650 price tag. Read more here.
3) Enjoy dune bashing in the desert
If you’re interested in riding the sand waves in the Middle East, then your options are endless. Off roads in the desert can prove to be heaps of fun! The excitement you feel as the vehicle you’re in comes crashing down the slopes of the sand dunes is unlike anything else. Be sure to catch the sun setting in the desert horizon, it’s simply breathtaking. If you’re an experienced driver with the appropriate vehicle, then feel free to try it out for yourself. If not, there are countless dune bashing tours with skilled instructors that also offer traditional barbeques, entertainment and quad biking as part of the ‘Desert Safari’ package. For more info or to book, click here.
4) Go Paintballing in Sharjah
Have you ever felt like you need to bust some steam and pelt some paint? Here’s your chance! Head to the Sharjah Paintball Park, the largest park in the UAE to unleash your competitive side. If you are looking for a fun day out with work, friends, or even a special birthday event, this venue offers the perfect indoor fun. The purpose-built indoor arena takes you to the streets of London, while the outdoor arena is a two-phase terrain across the ‘Jungle’ and the ‘Savanna’. Have fun as you chase your friends around bunkers, tunnels, trees, aircrafts, hills, trenches, bridges, towers and more! Visit this website to learn more about their various packages.
5) Ride the waves in Al Ain
If water sports are your forte’, then you’re going to love this place! Wadi Adventure in Al Ain brings together water and adrenaline-filled activities to create one of the most thrilling experiences in the UAE. From white water rafting and surfing, to wake boarding, kayaking and zip lining, there’s so much to do in once place! If you’re feeling a little rusty or just don’t know what you’re doing, don’t worry as you can get lessons from certified trainers, for all levels of competency. Only a short drive from Dubai, Wadi Adventure makes a great day out for families. Book your adventure here.
6) Swim with the fish in Fujairah
Diving deep into the ocean might sound scary at first but can also be a truly magical experience. The marine life in the crystal clear waters of Fujairah are indeed a beautiful sight to witness. Go snorkelling to get a glimpse of all the different sea creatures that lurk underneath the water including turtles and sometimes even SHARKS! (if this doesn’t get your blood pumping, then I don’t know what will). We recommend that you snorkel around Snoopy Island to get the best views of the marine life. If you’re a rookie, you can always take classes. Check out the package deals at this diving centre.
7) Hike your way up the mountains in Oman
Oman is a country often overlooked by many thrill seekers. But what they don’t know is that it’s a place where an adventure is just waiting to happen. Surrounded by mountains, hiking your heart out almost seems inevitable here. The choices for hiking spots are endless. One of the most spectacular mountain ranges is Jabal Akhdar Mountains, which are also ideal for hiking. Just a four-hour drive from Dubai, the peaks and valleys of these mountains are lush and brimming with greenery. The height of 1,980 metres above sea level makes them perfect for altitude training as well. The routes are marked for beginner, intermediate and expert levels allowing you to choose the best route for yourself. If you’re worried about the heat, worry not as the mountain ranges are breezy and much cooler than elsewhere. This is definitely a must for anyone who want to get in touch with nature and escape the scorching heat in the city. Read more here.