Ski Dubai

"If you can dream it, Dubai can execute it, and Ski Dubai is proof. Want to ski indoors then step outside into warm weather? This is the place. Maintaining freezing temperatures all year long, this ski resort provides guests with ski suits to keep them cozy. Lessons are available, and there's even a chair lift — and penguins — inside." - Travel + Leisure Editors

"It's All Downhill From Here Admit it; you're curious. A ski hill in the middle of the desert, on the Persian Gulf, no less, is as wild an idea as humankind has ever concocted—but isn't dreaming big what Dubai is all about? The slopes at Ski Dubai are no substitute for Jackson Hole or Vail, of course, but then again, they're not supposed to be. You go simply for the experienceof leaving a housewares shop, sauntering down the hall, and hitting the slopes. Allthe gear required can be rented at Ski Dubai: They even have long overcoats for women in abayas. You can ski or sled, roll down the hill in inflatable plastic balls, frolic with penguins, or even just ride the chairlifts back and forth. When you'refinished skiing, you can head back into the mall for a meal or a movie. You know, just another day in Dubai."

"In the middle of a mall in the desert, the world's third-largest indoor ski slope is a sight to behold. A daily lift ticket will run you about $138 (excluding equipment rentals), while a Snow Daycation pass, which primarily provides access to the non-skiing parts of the mountain like tubing, costs $75 per person, and you should plan to get there early. The place is filled with families with kids, most of whom are taking part in various rides, penguin visits and the Snow Cinema instead of skiing. If you're here to shred, there are two runs and a dedicated freestyle area (but Vail this is not)." - Melinda Healy