Very popular races
Dromedary races. The notables, the vast majority of Emiratis, take a great interest in this spectacle and many own racing dromedaries. As jockeys, robots built around an engine are remotely controlled by the owners. Every major city has a camelodrome.
Horse racing. Even more than the dromedary, the horse is the object of a veritable cult! Horse racing is extremely popular in Dubai, attracting thousands of spectators to the Meydan racecourse. They take place almost every Thursday evening from November to March.
The dhow regattas - traditional sailing boats - held on weekends between October and June, are a colorful spectacle that always attracts crowds of curious onlookers.
Numerous aquatic activities
Fast boats and yachts. For contemplative cruises or speed and thrills, turn to boat rental companies.
Jet-skis. Rentals of these water sports machines have sprung up like mushrooms along the coasts of Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Kitesurfing, windsurfing, dinghies and small catamarans. With the wind often blowing in the Emirates (especially between December and March), it's easy and pleasant to enjoy the pleasures of sailing. As for kitesurfing, it's becoming increasingly popular here too, particularly in the Emirate of Ajman, Abu Dhabi and Dubai's aptly named Kite Beach.
Sport fishing. Sport fishing or big-game fishing is becoming increasingly popular, and the best season runs from October to April.
Water skiing and wakeboarding. The vast majority of beachfront resorts offer waterskiing and wakeboarding tours.
Scuba diving. Whether it's scuba diving or snorkeling, head for the clear waters and colorful reefs of Fujairah.
Kayaking. For kayaking enthusiasts, paddle through the mangroves of Ajman, Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
On land, too, there are possibilities
Horseback riding and polo. In Dubai, horseback riding is not yet a truly organized tourist activity, although some clubs do offer outings, notably in Hatta. Polo, the traditional sport favoured by the Dubai royal family, is played from October to April in equestrian clubs, and tournaments are held.
Golf. Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the other emirates offer numerous greens, each more incredible than the last. They attract the world's best golfers for tournaments, as well as amateurs of all levels.
Hiking. Walkers will find plenty to do in the mountains. Of particular note are the Jebel Jais and Hatta hikes. But there are many others.
The desert, a huge playground
Buggy. After a briefing and training session to get used to the machine, the driver tourists are led by a guide through the dunes. A truly atypical experience, for all those who love speed, motor sports and off-the-beaten-track rides! The excursion can be combined with dinner under the stars.
Driving lessons in the dunes. Truth be told, the vast majority of people prefer to let themselves be driven, and are already sufficiently impressed by the adventure. And rightly so, as serious accidents do happen (in fact, it's forbidden to use your rental car in the dunes). Half-day courses are available under the guidance of professional instructors. To take part, you must be at least 21 years old and hold a valid driving license. The instructor explains how to avoid getting stuck in the sand, how to climb a hill without slipping, how to negotiate a slope without turning over, etc.
Dromedary excursion. A must! If you're just starting out, a short introduction lasting just a few minutes may be all you need, because it's fair to say that the most fun part of the ride is getting on the back and getting off - the very beginning and the very end of the ride!
Quad safari. The quad is a four-wheeled motorcycle offered by desert campsites: dune-crossing, top speeds on flatter terrain, visits to Bedouin villages... thrills guaranteed!
Safari in a 4 x 4 and dinner in a Bedouin camp. Offered by virtually all tour operators, the "dinner safari in the dunes" is one of the star excursions in the Emirates... The ride is a real change of scenery.
Wadi safari. Wadis are river beds, often lined with vegetation, but generally dry. In Dubai, wadi safaris take place in the rugged Hajjar Mountains, about 1 hour's drive from the city. They last the whole day. Generally, a picnic is served in the wilderness, and the safari is combined with a visit to a camel farm, or even a 4 x 4 ride in the desert.
Sandboarding. After putting on sandboards, you launch yourself off the dune, thinking that the sand will cushion your fall. Hilarious!
In the air, sensations guaranteed
Ziplines and zip lines. This is a trendy and very impressive activity, especially in Jebel Jais in the emirate of Ras al Khaimah, but also in Dubai through the skyscrapers.
Helicopter. As everywhere else in the world, helicopter flights are an expensive but exclusive and terribly attractive activity! In Dubai or Abu Dhabi, you can appreciate the juxtaposition of the infinity of the sea, the immensity of the desert and the buildings that line the old districts, bristling with mosques, in a single sweep of the blades..
Seaplane. The flight offers a breathtaking view, as every seat has a window. Available in both Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Parachute jumping over the Palm Jumeirah. This activity is all the rage in Dubai. It's an unforgettable experience, provided you've got the heart for it!
A hot-air balloon flight over the desert. This is undoubtedly the most original way to discover the Dubai desert. The arid expanses are never more beautiful than in the early morning, which is the best time to enjoy this activity: gentle air currents, mild temperatures, soothing light.
