The UAE is famous for its smouldering heat and overall warm climate. But you might not know that there are also resorts and facilities for cooler experiences. You don’t necessarily have to go all the way to the Alps to enjoy a skiing adventure. There are a number of leading resorts and facilities in close proximity to the UAE for skiing and snow-boarding adventures, which are perfect for a weekend getaway right from the UAE.
Mzaar Ski Resort, Lebanon
The Intercontinental Mzaar Lebanon Mountain Resort and Spa is one of the largest ski resorts in the Middle East. There are approximately 80 kilometers of pistes in this resort, with peaks ranging between 1850 meters to 2465 meters. The resort has 18 ski lifts, which makes it very efficient for multiple ski rounds. You don’t have to wait too long after you ski down a run to be whisked back up again for your next run. This ski experience is surrounded by other facilities like a spa, a heated indoor pool and Lebanese dining experiences.
Troodos Mountains, Cyprus
Cyprus is famous for its bright and sunny beaches, but it is also a vibrant ski destination that has been in business since the 1930’s. The snow on the Troodos Mountain range is at its peak from December to the beginning of April when temperatures are around -5℃. The ski mountain in this range is called Mount Olympus, with four main slopes for visitors to choose from depending on their skiing aptitude. They range from a 150 meter run for beginners to a 500 meter long run called Zeus, which has a 1915 meter peak for seasoned skiers. Guests typically stay at the Troodos Hotel and enjoy apres-ski activities at the Troodos Square, or at Jubilee Hotel a few kilometers higher up in the snow-capped mountains.
Gudauri, Georgia
This skiing destination is only 3 hours away from the UAE, and yet it has snow consistently year after year. This skiing facility has more than 50 kilometers of snow-covered slopes in the Caucasus Mountain range. Ski season runs up until April and guests can enjoy having 7 lifts to carry them up to the peaks of the slopes which range from 2195 meters to over 3000 meters. There is the opportunity of year-round skiing at this resort with Rooms Hotel Kazbegi offering accommodation in stylish suites with traditional Georgian finishes.
Ski Dubai, UAE
You can also enjoy skiing adventures right in the middle of the UAE in Dubai. Ski Dubai offers the closest thing to skiing on snow-covered slopes within a city. This facility is in the Mall of the Emirates with artificial ski runs that is more of a mound than a mountain, making it perfect for beginner skiers looking to prepare for a more challenging skiing trip. There are five ski runs, and the longest is 400 meters with a 60 meter drop, a ski school for novice skiers, and a snow park for children. The Avalanche Cafe is a short distance from the ski facility for the perfect apres-ski activities including little bites to nimble on while enjoying snow-slope views.
Kartalkaya in the Bolu Province, Turkey
Kartalkaya is one of the most visited ski resorts in Turkey. It sits between Ankara and Istanbul and the snow in this region is constant until the end of March. Visitors here find a picturesque scene with pine forests in the distance. This resort has 11 ski lifts and flawless runs for both alpine and cross-country skiing. People who come to ski here generally stay at the Kaya Palazzo Ski & Mountain Resort, and the main building of this resort leads directly to the ski lifts. Guests can enjoy real alpine–getaway food at the Swiss Fondue restaurant, and there is also a spa and a wellness center for other regenerative apres-ski activities. Children will also love the snow-tubing park onsite.
Allianz Travel and Allianz Assistance
Travel insurance is important for any trip, but especially when on active adventures like a ski holiday. Allianz Travel has over 30 years of experience providing quality insurance and assistance to travelers around the world. With headquarters in Paris and regional offices in 28 countries, you can call Allianz from anywhere at any time and you will be assisted immediately. Allianz Travel and Allianz Assistance is the largest travel insurance and assistance company in the world, with end-to-end travel insurance solutions for all international travelers.
Get in touch with Allianz to speak to one of their highly experienced consultants to learn more about their products and services.
