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Dubai has much more to offer than just beaches, shopping malls, skyscrapers and amusement parks. The emirate offers a plethora of activities that adventure lovers can indulge in to satisfy their hunger for adventure. Some of these include skydiving, flyboarding, rock climbing, sky scraping and hot air balloon rides. If you are fond of adventure, don’t stop yourself from indulging in hot air balloon ride in dubai, An activity on almost everyone’s bucket list. So, fly high in the air to feel the thrill and enjoy 360-degree views of the surroundings.
Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dubai
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Hot air balloons usually fly at a height of 1,000 to 4,000 feet above the ground and one can see beautiful views like never before. Hot air balloon rides in Dubai take place over exclusive locations such as the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR), Hajar Mountains and Margham. Some operators offer private pick-up and drop-off facilities. Whereas, if your package does not include transportation, you can travel by car, van or bus.
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Process and Experience of Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dubai
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The expert team provides you with details of what is going to happen during the hot air balloon ride. You’ll also get to see how the basket and burner are assembled before inflating and opening the balloon.
After boarding your balloon basket, the pilot burner will begin to light. Once the hot air balloon is filled with hot air, the basket slowly rises above the ground. As soon as the balloon reaches a certain height, you will not hear the birds chirping or any other sound as it will fade away. The only sound you will hear is that of your balloon and the burners of other balloons around you. But all these sounds will not be your concern as you will be mesmerized by the clear sky above and the panoramic view of the dunes below.
Criteria for hot air balloon rides
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The minimum and maximum accommodation capacity is determined by balloon operators based on the durability of the envelope and the size of the basket. An average hot air balloon can seat up to 8 passengers, including the pilot. However, balloons with larger baskets can carry 10 to 28 passengers.
Some operators in Dubai impose restrictions regarding age, height and health as per their set criteria. However, every operator follows the rule that children under 5 years of age and pregnant women are not allowed to fly on hot air balloons for safety reasons. People with health issues must inform their respective operators before booking a ride. There are special packages available that provide wheelchair-accessible hot air balloons for those with disabilities.
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Types of experiences in hot air balloon rides
An adventure enthusiast can opt for any one of the below mentioned experiences while selecting a package for Dubai hot air balloon ride:
1. Private ride experience
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For an exclusive and intimate experience, a private hot air balloon ride is available in Dubai. Such rides are suitable for couples seeking solitude and families who want to go on an adventure together. You will have the entire balloon to yourself for an unforgettable experience.
2. Group ride experience
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In this type of ride you will not be alone and you will also have strangers with you. You can form new bonds that will turn into lifelong friendships and have the best hot air balloon ride in Dubai of your life. Plus, it’s always fun to go on a new adventure with new people.
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3. Desert Safari with Hot Air Balloon Ride and Overnight Stay
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You can upgrade your hot air balloon adventure by adding a desert safari experience, which will be the icing on the cake. The day before the hot air balloon ride, head to the desert for a desert safari in a 4×4 vehicle. Along with the desert safari, you can also spot wildlife like gazelle or camels while driving through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Additional experiences include camel rides, a sunset falconry show, and cultural entertainment. Spend the night camping and head out for a hot air balloon ride in the morning.
4. Hot air balloon ride with other adventures
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In addition to hot air balloon rides, many packages offer a variety of experiences one can choose from. Some premium hot air balloon packages include an in-flight falcon (world’s fastest bird) show, which is rare, and if it falls within your budget, a must experience once. Whereas, some packages include a short camel, horse or ATV ride immediately followed by a hot air balloon ride. In some scenarios, a private vehicle and breakfast are also provided.
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Best time for hot air balloon ride in Dubai
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Hot air balloon riding is an activity that can be done all year round. However, balloon flights are dependent on weather conditions as winds play an important role at higher altitudes. Light winds, little or no rain and clear bright skies are conditions that are perfect for a smooth sailing experience.
The recommended hours for hot air balloon rides to fly above the ground are during sunrise and before sunset. Generally, early morning rides are preferred over sunset flights as the weather conditions and winds are mostly favourable.
Tips for first time riders
- Determine your budget and do your research before officially booking a ride online, over a phone call, or by visiting the location. Make sure your package includes pick-up and drop-off facilities.
- Book your ride in advance, at least 3-4 days in advance, as the operator needs time to prepare for the actual ride.
- Waiver form must be completed 24 hours prior to actual ride. Also, carry a valid ID like your passport on the day of the balloon ride.
- Eat a light meal before setting out, especially on a sunrise hot air balloon ride in Dubai, and always stay hydrated.
- Choose your outfit according to the weather conditions in that particular area of Dubai. Wear comfortable clothes so that it does not hinder your adventure as you have to climb up into the basket. Also, carry an extra layer of clothing with you to adapt to the changing weather conditions during the balloon ride.
- Wear sunscreen and carry your sunglasses and hat to avoid the scorching heat of the sun.
- Keep your gadgets like cameras and mobile phones in the body pouch so that you don’t drop them. However, there is a possibility that your operator may provide you with storage options to keep your belongings.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the balloon may fall in the middle of a field and you will have to walk to your vehicle.
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Bookmark this for your future hot air balloon ride in Dubai. The adventurous souls out there must embark on this adventure of a lifetime when planning a trip to Dubai. The views you are going to see are incomparable and will leave a mark on your mind. You will have stories to tell others!
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FAQs About Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dubai
How long does a hot air balloon ride in Dubai take?
Hot air balloon rides in Dubai usually last 20 minutes to 1 hour, but the experience you have lasts a lifetime. Depending on your package, the entire experience can range from 4 to 8 hours including hotel pick-up, breakfast, actual ride, and post-landing activities.
How much does it cost to take a hot air balloon ride in Dubai?
Hot air balloon rides cost between AED 700 to AED 1,500. The cost depends on certain factors such as time of day, location of the flight, size of the balloon and additional activities.
What is the age limit for hot air ballooning in Dubai?
Due to safety reasons, children below 5 years of age and pregnant women are not allowed to ride in Hot Air Balloon Dubai.
Where do people sit in a hot air balloon?
Hot air balloons have no seats, just safety straps inside a basket that anyone can hold on to. These have been designed keeping the safety of passengers in mind.
How many passengers can fit in a hot air balloon?
An average hot air balloon can seat up to 8 passengers, including the pilot. However, balloons with larger baskets can carry 10 to 28 passengers.
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