Thrilling, daring things you can do during weekends in the UAE

Dubai: Flyboarding is an exciting water sport to try out. In the sport that requires a lot of balance, the person wears a flyboard that’s attached to a jetski. The flyboard uses an engine that pushes out water through a tube and thrusts you into the air. Users can reach up to 10 meters in height using the hand controls. Depending on where you are, you can take in some amazing views as well.

Explore the Liwa Forts in Abu Dhabi. The forts in Liwa Oasis have a colourful history. Two were built around a century ago while seven were restored in the 80s. The forts are dotted along the edge of a 60-mile expanse of greenery and offer 360-degree views of the date palm plantations in the oasis and the desert beyond. For history buffs, the area is a treasure trove, giving an insight into how these forts were used to protect the area and its water sources. For sports enthusiasts, one of the forts – Tal Moreeb – offers opportunities for daring stunts. It is also one of the world’s tallest of its kind.

Take a hot air balloon ride in Dubai. There is no better way to enjoy in-person views from above the rolling desert dunes of Dubai, far from the hustle and bustle of the city than in a hot air balloon. You can float 4,000ft above the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Along with that you can watch a memorable falconry show set to a spectacular sunrise, before landing and then going on to conquer the dunes on a desert safari.

Discover UNESCO wonders at Al Ain Oasis The best part about this oasis Is that the ingenious falaj irrigation system using spring water has made thriving life possible in the area for the last 4,000 years. The oasis is also home to Qasr Al Muwaiji, birthplace of UAE President Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. The verdant sanctuary that was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011.

Sky Views Dubai, located at a height of 219.5 meters above ground, is the newest destination to dazzle visitors with breathtaking views of Downtown Dubai and the city skyline beyond. The Edge Walk, a one-of-a-kind adventure that takes guests on an outer ledge encircling the tower for a harrowing hands-free walk, is a must-do for true risk-takers. Friends who want to go on a more relaxing sightseeing adventure can join you at the Observatory or the Glass Slide.

Deep Dive Dubai is UAE’s latest attraction that should not be missed. The city of superlatives with the world's tallest tower among its many records, Dubai now has the deepest swimming pool on the planet complete with a "sunken city" for divers to explore. World's deepest diving pool in Dubai is an underwater city with shopping, reading and games. A must visit for diving enthusiasts, this facility is certainly among the city’s most unique adrenaline attractions.

Jebel Jais Flight in Ras Al Khaimah: The mountain is the main attraction here, because most of the activities you aspire to do are on there. Here you can try the world’s longest zipline, at 2.83 kilometres. Starting at the highest point of the UAE (1,680 mts above the sea level), you’ll zip down at speeds of 160km/hr. You must book the experience in advance and you can expect to pay from Dh300 to Dh499 depending on weekdays/weekends and peak/non-peak seasons.