When Glenn Frey belted out his cult '80s classic The Heat is On, his lyrics - 'on the street, inside your head' - was a spot-on description of what most residents feel about Dubai's most extreme season. So to cool off, here are some of the best summer busting activities.
Ice Skating and Skiing
The emirate is snowed under with the international media's coverage of the sand box's only ski slope, but before that Ski Dubai residents took a chill pill at the skating rinks in Al Nasr Leisureland (ANLL) and the Hyatt Regency Galleria. A a nominal Dhs20 (inclusive of Dhs10 entrance fee and skates) at Leisure Land, can buy time to practise some twirls and pirouettes for two long hours. Call ANLL on (04) 3371234. For something more current, check out the new ice rink in Dubai Mall.
Dubai City Tours
Get a pass on one of the several tour company's sleek air-conditioned coaches and enjoy the chance to soak up some of the real history associated with the city's rapid growth. Touring Old Dubai, the souks and the newer, affluent suburbs of Jumeira and Umm Suqeim tourists can get a peek at what it's like to be an expatriate here. Contact Alpha Tours (04) 2949888 or Net Tours on (04) 2666655.
Mall Visits and the Dubai Shopping Festival
With the Dubai Summer Surprises usually running until August 31, there's about two months of serious shopping time - enough for any self-proclaimed fashionistas to update their wardrobes. With 40 malls participating and loads of prizes to be won - it would be folly not to pick up some deals. Grab a frappucino and enjoy the sub-zero temperature that is the norm in most malls as each weekly surprise is revealed.
Al Mamzar Beach Chalets
Pack off to Al Mamzar Beach where the air-conditioned confines of the park's chalets provide respite from the heat between dips in the sea. Located near the Hamriya Port, the 15 bungalows can be hired by families at Dhs160 or Dhs210, depending on the size, from 9am to 10pm. A small chalet can house 10 people while a larger one can accommodate up to 20. Come prepared with hot dogs and buns, as the chalets are equipped with a barbeque and shower facilities as well. Call (04) 2967454.
Fishing in the Arabian Gulf
Drop anchor a couple of miles off the coast and savour the Arabian Gulf's natural, salty air-conditioning while waiting for dinner to be caught. For complete serenity, deep-sea fishing with the Desert Rangers (www.desertrangers.com) is the perfect choice for a relaxing four-hour trip where sun worshippers can catch a tan while waiting for the sailfish to bite. Stay tuned to catch a glimpse of mackerel, kingfish and - if you're lucky - some shark and barracuda.
Go-Karting at Emirates Kart Centre
Speeding on the emirate's busiest highway Sheikh Zayed Road is never a good option but is expected at the Emirates Kart Centre so buckle up and enjoy the adrenalin rush. Dhs50 provides protective gear along with 15-minutes of a joyride though chicanes and hairpin bends on karts fitted with Rotax Max engines that reach upto 150km/h. Open from 2pm to 10pm, head there during sundown to enjoy the light evening temperature. Call (04) 5592131.
Camel Trekking by Night
Take a trip Bedouin-style into the mysterious desert on camel back and watch the sun slip behind the dunes to the accompaniment of the whistling wind instead of a roaring four-wheel drive's engine. The Desert Rangers' package includes transportation and BBQ dinner under the stars complete with hubbly-bubbly and Bedouin guide at Dhs400 per head. Lawrence of Arabia-style garb is optional. Call (04) 3402408.
Ice Sculpted Chillout Lounge
Take refuge in the Chillout Lounge at Times Square Center, complete with furniture and crockery sculpted from ice. The Dhs60 cover charge includes a warm parka, gloves, special shoes and a mocktail to help guests get acclimatised in the 5°C Buffer Zone before stepping into in the freezing -6°C ambience. Subtle rainbow-hued lighting casts a gentle glow around the 2,400 square foot restaurant that serves cold cuts, cheeses, ice cream and fresh juices - nothing reminiscent of the heat outside. Call (04) 3418121.
Note: All prices are subject to change
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