Ski Dubai and Mall of the Emirates: A One-Day Plan
Real snow in the desert is a family favourite in Dubai. Ski Dubai sits inside Mall of the Emirates in Al Barsha, so you can spend the morning on the slopes and the afternoon shopping without going outside. Here is how to plan it.
What is Ski Dubai?
Ski Dubai was the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort (Mall of the Emirates). It covers about 22,500 m² of indoor snow, with ski runs, a snow park for children, a chairlift, a zipline, and penguin encounters (Ski Dubai).
You don’t need to ski to enjoy it. Many families book a Snow Park pass for sledging, snowball fights and the penguins.
Booking and what to bring
- Book online on the official Ski Dubai website. Booking ahead holds your slot, and busy days, such as weekends and school holidays, can sell out.
- Clothing: jackets, trousers, boots and helmets are generally provided with passes. Bring gloves and warm socks, and check which items your pass includes.
- Lessons: first-time skiers and snowboarders can book lessons with instructors.
- Penguin encounters have limited places, so book them early.
A one-day plan
Morning: Ski Dubai. Go early, when the slopes are quieter. Two to three hours is enough for most families in the Snow Park.
Lunch: Mall of the Emirates has a large food court and sit-down restaurants, some with a view over the slopes.
Afternoon: shop. Mall of the Emirates has hundreds of stores, from high-street to luxury, plus a cinema. During the Dubai Shopping Festival (4 December 2026 to 17 January 2027, per Visit Dubai), expect sales and events across the mall.
Evening: dinner back in Al Barsha, which has restaurants for every budget.
Getting there
Mall of the Emirates has its own station on the Dubai Metro Red Line, linked to the mall by a covered bridge. The Red Line also serves the airport (Terminals 1 and 3), Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina.
Hotels near Mall of the Emirates: Rose Plaza Hotel Al Barsha
Rose Plaza Hotel Al Barsha is near Mall of the Emirates in Al Barsha 1. After a cold morning and a long afternoon in the shops, your room is close by, not across the city. See the rooms.
Looking for more shopping nearby? Read Top Malls and Markets Near Al Barsha.
Book on our official site for the best available rate.
Check rates at Rose Plaza Hotel Al Barsha →
FAQ
Where is Ski Dubai?
Inside Mall of the Emirates in Al Barsha, Dubai.
Do I need to know how to ski?
No. The Snow Park is for everyone, and lessons are available for beginners.
Which metro station is closest to Ski Dubai?
Mall of the Emirates station on the Red Line, connected to the mall by a covered bridge.
Is clothing provided at Ski Dubai?
Jackets, trousers, boots and helmets are generally included with passes. Bring your own gloves and check what your pass covers on the official site.