Experience an adrenaline rush with a variety of adventure activities in Dubai. From soaring between skyscrapers to gliding over sandy dunes and flying above the stunning Arabian Gulf, this vibrant city offers thrilling experiences for every couple.

1. Freefall Over Dubai

Skydive Dubai

If you've ever considered skydiving, now's the perfect time to take the leap. Skydive Dubai lets you freefall from 13,000 feet, offering breathtaking views of Palm Jumeirah and the sparkling Arabian Gulf below. Prefer the vast desert landscape? No problem—there's also a drop zone located about 30 kilometers from the city center.

For those seeking a less intense experience, why not try a gyrocopter ride? This two-seater aircraft will provide a memorable aerial view of the emirate from 1,500 feet in the sky.

Location: Al Seyahi Street, Dubai Marina
Price: Approximately AED 2,199 for tandem skydiving (includes training and gear)
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily
Tips:

• Booking: Reserve your spot online well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Attire: Wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes; avoid bulky items.
• Health: Ensure you're in good health; consult with staff if you have concerns.

2. Desert Quadbiking Adventure

Big Red Adventure Tours

Feel the exhilaration of racing across the desert in a dune buggy or on a quad bike. These specially designed vehicles are built for high-energy thrills, featuring no doors or roof and equipped with roll cages and bucket seats for safety. Big Red Adventure Tours offers various desert safari packages, with options for morning, evening, and overnight adventures, allowing you to conquer heart-pounding 45-degree dunes.

Location: Pinnacle Building, Al Barsha 1
Price: Starting around AED 650 per person for a half-day tour (includes equipment and refreshments)
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Tips:

• Timing: Opt for early morning or sunset tours to enjoy cooler temperatures.
• Gear: Bring sunglasses, a scarf for dust protection, and a hat.
• Hydration: Carry plenty of water to stay hydrated.

3. Urban Ziplining Experience

XLine Dubai Marina

Don't miss the chance to try XLine, one of the most exciting attractions in Dubai. Fly across the city at speeds of 80 km/h while enjoying panoramic views of luxurious yachts and towering skyscrapers. Stretching over one kilometer, XLine is officially the world's longest urban zipline and features a gentle incline of 16 degrees. Plus, you can share this thrilling ride with a friend on one of the two parallel lines.

Location: Level P, Dubai Marina Mall
Price: Approximately AED 650 per person
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Tips:

• Clothing: Wear snug-fitting clothes and closed-toe shoes for safety.
• Group Size: Consider going with a partner to share the thrill.
• Weather: Check weather conditions; the experience is weather-dependent.

4. Flyboarding Fun

Sky and Sea Adventures

For those eager to conquer the waves, flyboarding is an exhilarating option. This extreme water sport propels you up to 10 meters above the water using a powerful turbine. Suitable for all skill levels, you'll quickly learn to balance in the air, and may even master some impressive tricks. Sky and Sea Adventures, a premier watersports company, offers top-notch training. If flyboarding isn't your thing, consider scuba diving, parasailing, or kitesurfing at the popular Kite Beach.

Location: Hilton - The Walk, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz, Al Saud Street, Dubai Marina
Price: Around AED 600 for a 30-minute session
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Tips:

• Preparation: Arrive early to get suited up and receive instructions.
• Gear: Bring a swimsuit, towel, and sunscreen; water shoes are often provided.
• Practice: Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get it right away—practice makes perfect!

5. Mountain Adventures in Hatta

Hatta Wadi Hub

Escape to Hatta for a mix of adventure and natural beauty. Located just a 90-minute drive from Downtown Dubai, this destination is perfect for mountain biking, hiking, and kayaking. Explore the stunning Hajar Mountain range and visit Hatta Wadi Hub for activities like biking, archery, and even zorbing—rolling down a hill in a transparent orb. Extend your stay with a night at JA Hatta Fort Hotel or try glamping at Damani Lodges.

Location: Hatta Wadi Hub, off Dubai-Hatta Road
Price: Entry fee around AED 30; activities like kayaking and biking are extra.
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Tips:

• Packing: Bring snacks, plenty of water, and a camera for stunning views.
• Accommodation: Consider staying overnight at JA Hatta Fort Hotel for a full experience.
• Explore: Take time to explore the local history and culture at Hatta Heritage Village.

6. Dive into the Deep

Deep Dive Dubai

A must-visit for water enthusiasts, Deep Dive Dubai boasts the world's deepest swimming pool for diving at 60.02 meters. The facility features a unique 'sunken city' and offers year-round diving courses. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned diver aged 10 and over, you'll have the chance to explore its underwater wonders. You can also enjoy games or book the underwater media room for creative projects.

Location: NAS Sports Complex, Dubai
Price: Starting at AED 400 for a dive experience
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Tips:

• Booking: Reserve your spot online; spaces can fill up quickly.
• Health: Ensure you meet the health requirements for diving.
• Equipment: Bring your swimsuit; all diving gear is provided.

7. Cycling Trails in Mushrif Park

Mushrif Park

Cycling enthusiasts will love the new mountain biking trails in Mushrif Park. The park recently opened its first 20 kilometers of what will eventually be a 50-kilometer track, designed to accommodate up to 3,000 cyclists daily. With trails varying in difficulty, there's something for everyone—from beginners to experienced riders. Enjoy additional activities like scenic hiking trails and treetop obstacle courses at Aventura Parks.

Location: Al Khawaneej Street, Mushrif
Price: Entry fee around AED 3; bike rentals vary.
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily
Tips:

• Bike Rentals: Rent bikes on-site for convenience; rates are reasonable.
• Timing: Visit early to beat the heat and enjoy the peaceful morning ambiance.
• Explore: Check out the park’s diverse flora and fauna during your ride.

8. Spectacular City Views

Sky Views Dubai

Experience Downtown Dubai like never before at Sky Views Dubai, located 219.5 meters above ground. This stunning attraction offers breathtaking views of the city's skyline and pristine landscapes below. Situated atop the Address Sky View hotel, it features three unique experiences: the Observatory, Glass Slide, and Edge Walk, ensuring unforgettable moments for every couple.

Location: Address Sky View Hotel, Emaar Square Area, Downtown Dubai
Price: Approximately AED 100 for general admission
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
Tips:

• Timing: Visit during sunset for spectacular views and photo opportunities.
• Advance Booking: Purchase tickets online to avoid queues.
• Experience: Try the edge walk for an exhilarating perspective of the city.

Etihad Airways and TAP Air Portugal have officially launched a comprehensive frequent flyer partnership as of May 14, 2025, marking a significant expansion in loyalty benefits and global connectivity for travelers. Under this new agreement, members of Etihad Guest and TAP Miles&Go can now earn and redeem miles seamlessly across both airlines’ networks, greatly enhancing travel flexibility and reward options.

For Etihad Guest members, the partnership opens up the ability to redeem miles not only on flights but also on worldwide hotel stays, holiday packages, and a wide range of products from the Etihad Guest Reward Shop. TAP Miles&Go members enjoy similar flexibility, with the option to use their miles for flights and a variety of exclusive offers, including items from the TAP Store.

This integration means that both frequent and occasional travelers can accelerate their rewards and enjoy a more comprehensive travel experience, covering everything from airfare to accommodation and curated holiday packages.

The partnership builds on a strategic codeshare agreement established between the two airlines in 2023, which had already enhanced connectivity and destination choices for passengers. The combined route networks now span North and South America, Europe, Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Middle East, allowing members to access a truly global array of destinations.

For example, Etihad Guest members can earn miles on TAP-operated flights to cities such as Los Angeles, Rio de Janeiro, and Cancun, while TAP Miles&Go members can now earn and redeem miles on Etihad’s growing network, including new destinations like Chiang Mai, Hong Kong, and Medan.

The partnership also emphasizes improved customer experience through streamlined booking, mileage tracking, and the potential for joint promotions, tier benefits, and personalized offers. According to Mark Potter, Managing Director of Etihad Guest, this collaboration offers members even more ways to earn and redeem miles across the Americas, Europe, and Africa, reinforcing Etihad’s commitment to rewarding loyalty wherever members travel.

Pedro Flores Ribeiro, Director of TAP Miles&Go, highlighted the excitement of offering TAP members the opportunity to redeem miles on Etihad flights and welcoming Etihad Guest members to experience TAP’s renowned Portuguese hospitality.

Both airlines bring strong reputations and extensive networks to the partnership. Etihad Airways, based in Abu Dhabi, is recognized for its award-winning service and global reach, while TAP Air Portugal, a Star Alliance member since 2005, operates one of the youngest and most efficient fleets in Europe and has been ranked the safest airline in Europe for 2025.

This alliance is expected to drive cross-brand loyalty, attract new customers, and set a new standard for frequent flyer benefits in the competitive airline industry

India’s budget airline powerhouse, IndiGo, is making bold moves to expand its international presence, with the launch of daily direct flights from Mumbai and Kannur to Fujairah starting May 15. This milestone makes Fujairah IndiGo’s fifth UAE destination and its 41st international route, strengthening the airline’s strategic footprint across the Middle East.

To enhance connectivity beyond Fujairah, IndiGo will also offer dedicated bus services linking Fujairah with Dubai and Sharjah—adding to its existing UAE network that includes Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Sharjah.

“As our 41st international destination and fifth in the UAE, these new flights will further enhance regional connectivity,” said Vinay Malhotra, Head of Global Sales at IndiGo.

Wider Horizons: Dreamliners and Europe-Bound Ambitions
The Fujairah announcement comes as part of a broader international expansion push by the airline. On Friday, IndiGo revealed it is increasing its wide-body fleet by acquiring two additional Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners from Norse Atlantic Airways, adding to an existing damp-lease agreement that already includes four aircraft.

Currently, one Dreamliner (registration LN-FNC) has been flying under IndiGo’s banner since March 1, 2025, with three more set to be deployed later this year. The two newly announced aircraft are expected to join the fleet by early 2026, with the lease potentially extending to 18 months, pending regulatory approval.

These long-haul aircraft will play a pivotal role in IndiGo’s upcoming routes to Europe, including new services to Manchester and Amsterdam Schiphol set to launch in July 2025. The airline will initially operate these routes using Norse aircraft before transitioning to its own fleet of 30 Airbus A350-900s, the first of which is expected in 2027.

With growing momentum in both regional and long-haul markets, IndiGo’s latest moves signal a clear intention: to elevate itself from a domestic leader to a formidable global player.

Riyadh Air, the Saudi Arabian startup airline backed by the Public Investment Fund, has expressed its willingness to purchase Boeing aircraft originally intended for Chinese airlines, should those deliveries be blocked due to the intensifying trade war between the United States and China.

CEO Tony Douglas stated at the Arabian Travel Market conference in Dubai that the airline had made it clear to Boeing that it would be ready to take all available jets if China’s suspension of Boeing deliveries persists, a move prompted by reciprocal tariffs between the two economic giants.

China recently ordered its airlines to halt the acceptance of new Boeing jets in response to the U.S. imposing tariffs as high as 145% on Chinese imports. In retaliation, Beijing levied 125% duties on American goods, including aircraft, making Boeing jets financially unviable for Chinese carriers. This standoff has left dozens of Boeing planes undelivered, with some already repatriated to the United States, and has prompted Boeing to seek alternative buyers in a tight global jet market.

Riyadh Air, which plans to launch operations later this year, has been rapidly expanding its fleet and workforce. The airline has already placed orders for up to 72 Boeing 787 Dreamliners and 60 Airbus A321neo jets, and intends to announce an additional wide-body aircraft order this summer.

With nearly 500 employees hired and plans to double its staff within a year, Riyadh Air aims to capitalize on regional demand, particularly within the Gulf Cooperation Council, and is positioning itself as a key player ready to absorb aircraft sidelined by global trade tensions.

Riyadh Air is making headlines with its ambitious expansion plans, having recently secured 11 strategic agreements during the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) in Dubai. These partnerships will allow the airline to extend its operations to 125 countries, marking a significant milestone in its growth trajectory.

Collaborations with established entities such as DNATA, Discover the World Momentum, Aviareps, and Satguru Representation Services aim to enhance the airline's global footprint and streamline travel experiences for customers.

Osamah Alnuaiser, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Corporate Communications at Riyadh Air, stated that these agreements reflect the airline's commitment to becoming a true global player. “These partnerships will push the boundaries of travel for our guests and reinforce our determination to offer exceptional service,” he noted.

The focus will be on improving customer experiences across key regions including Europe, Asia, the Middle East, Australasia, and Africa, showcasing the rich hospitality that Saudi Arabia is known for.

In addition to enhancing connectivity, Riyadh Air is also focused on technological innovation. The airline has partnered with Loyalty Juggernaut to develop a next-generation loyalty program, which will utilize advanced analytics to deliver personalized rewards and engagement opportunities for travelers. This initiative is aimed at fostering customer loyalty and enhancing overall satisfaction.

Furthermore, Riyadh Air is working with major travel technology distributors like Amadeus and Sabre to implement cutting-edge retail solutions that will streamline the booking process. These technological advancements are intended to modernize the airline's digital strategy and improve the overall customer journey.

As the airline gears up for its inaugural flight later this year, it plans to connect Riyadh with over 100 international destinations by 2030. This ambitious goal aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 initiative, which seeks to diversify the economy and significantly boost the tourism sector.

The establishment of Riyadh as a major global aviation hub is expected to attract millions of visitors, contributing to economic growth and positioning the country as a vital player in the international travel market.

In summary, Riyadh Air is poised to transform the landscape of air travel with its extensive partnerships and innovative strategies, reinforcing Saudi Arabia's commitment to becoming a global tourism destination.

Qatar Airways is reportedly preparing to place a substantial order for about 100 widebody aircraft from Boeing, with the possibility of securing options for an additional 100 jets, according to a detailed Bloomberg report. This significant purchase is expected to be officially announced during U.S. President Donald Trump’s upcoming visit to the Middle East, underscoring the deal’s importance both commercially and politically.

The order will primarily feature Boeing’s newest widebody models, including the 777X and 787 Dreamliner, which are designed to enhance long-haul operational efficiency, passenger comfort, and overall fleet modernization.

The Boeing 777X, available in the 777-8 and 777-9 variants, offers seating capacities ranging from approximately 395 to 426 passengers in a typical two-class layout, with impressive ranges of up to 8,745 nautical miles for the 777-8 and 7,285 nautical miles for the 777-9. This aircraft incorporates cutting-edge technology such as advanced aerodynamics, composite wings with folding wingtips, and the latest GE9X engines, resulting in fuel savings and emissions reductions of around 10% compared to previous models.

Additionally, the 777X boasts a wider cabin with larger windows, higher ceilings, and improved cabin pressurization and humidity, all contributing to a more comfortable passenger experience.

Currently, Qatar Airways operates a fleet that includes 64 Boeing 777s and several 787 Dreamliners, both recognized for their spacious interiors, state-of-the-art entertainment systems, and premium business class offerings like the Qsuite. The 787 variants provide business class seats that convert into fully flat beds up to 80 inches long, personal entertainment screens, onboard Wi-Fi, and innovative features such as electronically dimmable windows.

The 777 series accommodates up to 42 business class seats and nearly 400 economy seats, delivering a high level of comfort and amenities for travelers.

This forthcoming order will allow Qatar Airways to phase out older 777s and Airbus A380s, supporting the airline’s ambitious plan to boost its annual passenger capacity from 50 million to 80 million within the next five to six years. By investing in the latest aircraft technology, Qatar Airways aims to maintain its status as a leader in long-haul travel with one of the most modern and efficient fleets worldwide.

If finalized, this deal would represent one of the largest widebody aircraft purchases in recent history and reinforce Boeing’s position in the competitive global aviation market.