Want to learn kiteboarding? try this newly-opened school

DUBAI A new kiteboarding school has just been launched in Dubai.

The school, which opened on February 25, is operated by Watercooled UAE, an active watersports provider located in the JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort. Recognised by the International Kiteboarding Organisation, the school claims it is the first licensed and fully insured kiteboarding facility in the UAE with a full-fledged enclosed bay facility.

Insured location

Scott Ladyman, operations manager for Watercooled UAE, said the school offers a wide range of lessons that cater to all levels from beginners to experienced kiteboarders.

“We’re very excited to be creating something unique to Kiteboarding here in the UAE in which we are offering an actual Centre where people can come and learn to Kiteboard, have a fully insured location which is sheltered from the busyness of open beaches and is a private venue which has all the amenities such as bathroom and shower facilities, access to F&B outlets and more,” says Barry Conlon, general manager of Watercooled UAE.

Ladyman said, “Safety is our primary concern and we are fortunate that our location provides a large enclosed area of controlled space and flat ocean conditions. This allows for beginners a safe environment where instructors can efficiently manage the students. Other benefits available to our customers are buoyancy aids and helmets free of cost for use during kiteboarding lessons, self-storage options for kite gear, and equipment preparation and pack-up service before and after a session.”

Ladyman said, “The water here is shallow, flat and calm with no waves which makes it a lot easier for learning kiteboarding. There’s also a social element as the centre is fitted out with comfortable loungers, music and deckchairs on the beach. We have a separate wash and shower area.”

Open from 9.30am to sunset, the kiteboarding lesson usually take place in the afternoons. The cost is Dh350 for individual lessons and Dh300 per person for groups of two-four. It takes around nine one-hour sessions to master the basic skills.

With JA Jebel Ali Golf Resort being a private location, Ladyman said, “For people attending kiteboarding lessons or coming to rent the kite equipment, entrance to Watercooled is free, however use of the Jebel Ali Golf Resort facilities is charged for should our guests want to use the beach and/or facilities before/after the session with us. We are working on a Kiters Day Pass which will work alongside the hotel where guests can kiteboard with us as well as use the hotel facilities for the day.”

For more details go to www.watercooleduae.com