From hot air balloon rides to zip lining, winter in Dubai has much to offer the outdoor adventurer

Whether you are an adventure seeker searching for an adrenaline rush, or simply someone looking to enjoy the great outdoors, Dubai has something for everyone this season. As the weather turns more pleasant and the emirate steps up its outdoor activity options, here’s a look at all the ways you can spend a sunny day.

Free classes: From yoga to cycling, during the Dubai Fitness Challenge that lasts 30 days, there are a number of events – both virtual and physical – lined-up across the UAE. These are sometimes free or heavily discounted – perfect for that dive into sport or fitness.

Eye from the sky: Really want a bird’s-eye view of the city? Take a ride on a hot air balloon for an unforgettable adventure. Amazing sights start to appear on every trip including faraway mountains, Bedouin villages, camels and dunes.

A sweet desert: Dubai’s famous desert safaris allow people to take in the breathtaking views of the desert landscapes, engage in activities like dune bashing, sand boarding and quad biking.

Original experience: A ride into the golden sands also allow one the opportunity to participate in traditional activities like camel riding, getting close to falcons, or even experience authentic Emirati hospitality with a barbeque under the stars.

Shop, shop, shop: Shopping in Dubai is an impressive and entertaining cultural experience, which makes it so much more than retail therapy. Shoppers can get some of the best bargains at the traditional souqs, where visitors can shop for the finest souvenirs and items like carpets, silk scarves, antiques, textiles, perfumes, spices, and much more.

Spice things up: Visitors can visit the old Dubai Spice Souq or shop at the textile Souq in Bur Dubai or head over to Murshid Souq, Naif Souq and even the Gold Souq. These traditional bazaars offer not only old-school charm but also a variety of goods you may not get anywhere else.

Around the world in 80 (or so) steps: At the other end of the city, the Global Village brings the cultures of the world together with pavilions representing the ultimate mix of culture, entertainment and shopping.

Fly like a falcon: Skydive Dubai caters to anyone craving an adrenaline rush and welcomes skydiving enthusiasts to enjoy the spectacular views while flying high over the Palm Jumeirah. If you are skydiving for the first time, you can jump in tandem with a professional coach to enjoy a safe experience.

Ready for a zipline? Try the longest in the world – the XLine – which is located in Dubai Marina Mall. The XLine is one of the steepest and fastest ziplines around the globe, and has multiple lines, which means that family and friends can delight in the fantastic views together.

Plan a picnic: A welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the busy urban life, a visit to one of the city’s parks is among the many ways to unwind and whilst spending quality time with loved ones. Dubai is home to a number of parks such as Zabeel Park, Burj Park, Al Mamzar Beach Park, Safa Park Creek Park and Mushrif Park.

Go wild: Dubai Safari Park, a wildlife reserve, animal sanctuary and education centre is home to over 2,500 animals from all over the world, making it a unique tourism and edutainment destination. The Dubai Crocodile Park is home to the majestic freshwater Nile crocodile, and will help visitors learn more about the endangered species.

Stop and smell the flowers: Another exciting way to enjoy the weekend is to visit the Dubai Miracle Garden. Featuring over 150 million flowers of over 120 varieties, the Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s largest natural flower garden and is one of the most beautiful attractions in Dubai. All of the plants and flowers in Dubai Miracle Garden are fashioned into various stunning arches, patterns and shapes, making for a colourful sight – practically picture perfect.

Beach days: Dubai’s beach culture ensures that there’s always something for everyone, whether you want to play a game of beach volleyball with friends, curl up with a book or even enjoy a nice picnic on the sand. Among the options across the city are "The Beach" in JBR, which includes a range of entertainment places for families; Kite Beach, which is popular for surfing and beach sports; Sunset Beach, which offers views of the Burj Al Arab; and Al Mamzar Beach, which provides a suitable environment for relaxation and swimming, together with pathways for walking and cycling.

Playing with water: Water parks are fun-filled family attractions, and a splendid way to escape the heat. Legoland Water Park has rides for all ages, so the entire family can enjoy their day out; Wild Wadi, in front of the Burj Al Arab, offers many entertaining experiences for kids and their parents; and there’s even Laguna Water Park in La Mer – a modern park featuring a variety of rides catering to thrill seekers – as well as Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis the Palm, the largest of its kind in Dubai.