Dubai

The city offers plenty of alternative thrills. Freefall from 4,000 metres through the skies of Dubai and take in views of the iconic Palm Jumeirah or Arabian desert with Skydive Dubai. For more extreme fun combined with unique perspectives, book the XLine — the world's longest urban zipline that's in the heart of Dubai Marina. The brave can also try the fastest human slingshot in the region at Kite Beach, where you'll be propelled at speeds of up to 100 km/h.

Thrill-seekers can get their kicks at sea at Jumeirah Beach, where Dubai’s latest toys are getting hearts racing. Flyboarding, also known as water jet-packing, sees adventure lovers fitted into a small board and strapped to a specially-made backpack that sucks up seawater, before spitting it back out, propelling the rider into the air. If you have never tried it before, no worries. Even beginners will be able to manoeuvre themselves around the marina — just be prepared to make a splash crash-landing the first few attempts.

Have fun on the water and at the same time take in some of Dubai’s famous landmarks with a jet-ski session. With its pristine coastline and azure blue waters, it's the perfect place to master new moves. Most watersports tour operators offer a range of options, accompanied by a qualified instructor.

Direct your taxi driver to Dubai's most famous sand dune, Big Red (Al Badayer), where you can hop on a quad bike and navigate the sandy landscape yourself. Available to hire by the half hour, the quad bikes are speedy with a helmet provided for safety. Follow the natural trail of the dunes, kicking sand in the face of your fellow riders as you hurtle and bounce over Dubai’s most iconic patch of sand. Big Red is easy to spot along the Dubai-Hatta (E44) highway. Ask your driver to wait, or hire one for the day.

Step away from the city and float 1,200 metres above the desert dunes with a hot air balloon tour. The adventure usually starts at sunrise, followed by an hour-long flight that's worth the early wake-up. Following whichever way the desert breeze blows, you'll get breathtaking views of the rolling red sands, rising sun, grazing gazelles, and majestic Hajar Mountains. With a variety of packages to choose from with Balloon Adventures Dubai and Hot Air Balloon Dubai, you can make it a romantic rendezvous, corporate celebration or an unforgettable family experience.

Hatta Wadi Hub is the new home of action and adventure. Visitors can try a range of exciting activities, including archery, wall climbing, freefall jumps and adventure rope courses. Make time to go twin zip-lining with a friend, whizzing past the dramatic mountain scenery together. Then cool off at the Hatta Drop-in, the first water jump park in Asia, or be bowled over by zorbing — a fun sport that sees brave adventurers roll downhill inside a giant transparent orb. After a long day of exploring, pitch up a tent and sleep under the stars at the dedicated Hatta Campsite or, for a luxury twist, book a stay at the Hatta Damani Lodges and Hatta Sedr Trailers.