Sandboarding Thrills in Dubai by Pushpitha Wijesinghe

Dubai, one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, now possesses a highly developed economy based principally on property, financial services and tourism. Although Dubai is widely known as a petroleum exporter, this source of revenue is no longer such a major factor in its economy. The Al Maktoum dynasty has ruled Dubai since 1833, and the current ruler is also the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates. In recent times Dubai has become a global city, a hub for business and also a tourist destination.

In recent years Dubai has become a draw for sandboarders. Sandboarding is similar to snowboarding, but is performed on sand dunes rather than snow. Sandboarders glide down or across a sand dune with both feet secured to the board. More adventurous individuals use a board without any fastenings and this technique is thought to be much more hazardous. Sandboarding has enthusiasts around the world but naturally it is more popular in desert areas such as Dubai which offer an unlimited number of sand dunes to sample throughout the year.

Since it is technically very difficult to install a mechanized lift on a sand dune, most sandboarders either walk to the summit or ride up on a dune buggy. The sandboarder uses a board with a base constructed of laminex or formica, since the board must be very strong to withstand the massive forces of the sport. Usually the sandboard must be waxed before a session so that it will slide smoothly across the sand, and a paraffin based wax custom designed for sandboarding is recommended.

Approximately 30 minutes"?? drive from Dubai is the region with the largest dunes in the country. Visitors may take their own 4x4s or alternatively take an excursion offered by a tour company. Sandboarding is best enjoyed in the morning hours, when the sun is not too hot.

There are a few dunes which are 200-300m high which make them highly sought after by sandboarders. The largest, locally known as "??Big Red"?? is very popular but it may be preferable to find a quieter less busy dune. Just as with snowboarding it is preferable for the novice to start with a smaller dune.

When looking for a hotel in Dubai, there is no finer choice than the Raffles Dubai. This exceptional Dubai luxury hotel offers sumptuous accommodation with delectable dining in exclusive restaurants and exceptional levels of service.


Pushpitha Wijesinghe is an experienced independent freelance writer. He specializes in providing a wide variety of content and articles related to the travel hospitality industry.

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