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by Iffat Nawaz

The Thrill Of Skydive Dubai: A First Timer's Guide

15 Oct 2024

Photo: Ihjaaz Manarikk

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First-time Skydiver? No experience? No problem. Learn more about skydiving with The Sandy Times and expert instructors.

Ready for the leap of a lifetime? Skydive Dubai offers an unparalleled adventure, perfect for thrill-seekers and those looking to tick off a bucket list activity. The journey up to the sky and back, but faster, begins with a briefing and a plane ride with fellow adventurers.

The free fall begins, sending you plummeting towards the ground at 180–200 kilometres per hour, with clouds (and all your life) rushing past. Then, the parachute deploys, and serenity takes over. The aerial views of The Palm Jumeirah and beyond unfold, offering a spectacular panorama.

To commemorate this once in a lifetime experience, Skydive Dubai provides a complimentary video and photo package.

Location: Skydive Dubai, Al Seyahi Street, Dubai Marina

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Photo: Akii Patel

Getting ready for the leap

Before you experience the rush of skydiving, you will meet your expert tandem instructor for a comprehensive training session. This essential briefing will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to ensure a safe and memorable experience. You will receive 30 minutes of instructions and guidelines.

Then, you will board a small flight and take the leap of faith with your instructor. All in all, the descent will take up to eight minutes – give or take a few screams – with a 60-second freefall, and a relaxed five to seven minute parachute gliding.

During the training, you will learn:

  • The fundamentals of skydiving, including optimal body positions for a smooth flight
  • How the harness and parachute deployment system works
  • Key safety procedures and emergency protocols
  • Tips for maximising your enjoyment and minimising any nerves

Ultimate Adventure: Tandem skydiving

After the training you will be ready to experience the joy of skydiving over Dubai's breathtaking landscape. Don’t you worry, with Skydive Dubai's team you are in good hands for tandem skydiving experience.

You will be securely attached to a highly trained instructor handling every detail, from parachute deployment to guiding you to a smooth landing. To capture your unforgettable experience, a dedicated camera flyer will record every moment.

As you freefall from 4,000 meters, you will reach speeds of approximately 200 km/h, depending on your body weight and position. A minimum fitness level is required to ensure a safe and smooth landing, as determined by your BMI.

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Photo: Akii Patel

Safety first

To ensure a smooth and safe landing, the following requirements apply:

  • Female: Weight ≤ 90kg, BMI ≤ 27.5
  • Male: Weight ≤ 100kg, BMI ≤ 30.0

On the big day, you will be weighed with your shoes and clothes on. Dress comfortably, keeping Dubai's local culture and sentiments in mind. 

Dress code:

Keep it comfy and respectful:

  • Athletic or comfortable clothes
  • Shorts that cover the thigh area
  • Laced-up shoes (no buckles or studs)
  • Avoid low-cut tops, swimwear, sandals, boots or heeled shoes
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Photo: Nelemson Guevarra

Dubai from a new standpoint: Gyrocopter flight

Not in the mood for a freefall? There is an aerial adventure a bit closer to the ground. A gyrocopter flight, departing from the iconic Dubai Marina, might be an option for you to fly over Dubai's stunning skyline or explore Dubai’s remarkable city perspective.

Relish a 20-minute flight at a maximum altitude of 460 metres, and enjoy spectacular views of Dubai's landmarks, including Ain Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Atlantis, and The World Islands. To commemorate your experience, you will receive complimentary photos and an edited video.

The Gyrocopter offers an intimate flight experience with stunning views of Dubai's coastline. For a safe and enjoyable flight, you must be at least 17 years old on the day of your flight. Please note that you will be weighed on the day of the flight – the safety regulations require that the passengers weigh no more than 105 kilograms.

The bliss of flying with Inflight Dubai

Avail the rush of skydiving without jumping out of a plane. Inflight Dubai is your gateway to indoor skydiving excitement. Prepare to defy gravity at Inflight Dubai, the premier indoor skydiving destination. 

Enjoy soaring through the air, weightless and free, in the state-of-the-art wind tunnel – 20 metres tall and five metres wide. Expert instructors will guide you through every step, helping you master indoor skydiving fundamentals.

As a globally recognised hub for indoor skydiving, Inflight Dubai has hosted prestigious events like the Dubai Indoor Skydiving Championship and Sandstorm, now holding multiple Guinness World Records.

Best time for Skydive Dubai

Dubai's climate is characterised by sunlight and dry heat from April to October, while November to March brings mild winters with occasional rainfall. For optimal skydiving conditions, visit between October and April: pleasant weather and cool breezes prevail in this season. Morning slots offer the best views and photo opportunities.

Choose your jump site

Plan to spend three to four hours at either location, with dives commencing as early as 9 am. Skydive Dubai operates from two main locations – Desert Campus Dropzone and Palm Dropzone, providing an exclusive experience.

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Photo: Gareth Harrison

Desert Campus Dropzone

Located in the centre of Dubai, this dropzone offers astonishing views of the desert and surrounding areas. Experience a freefall, taking in the city's skyline, famous sites like Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and endless desert sand.

Palm Dropzone

In the popular beachside community of Jumeirah, Palm Dropzone offers stunning views of Palm Jumeirah, its iconic skyline, and neighbouring Abu Dhabi. Take in the world's largest artificial island, the World Islands, and spectacular aerial views of Burj Khalifa.

With tandem jumps for first-time skydivers and advanced courses for experienced jumpers, Palm Dropzone provides an adrenaline rush like no other.

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