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Kidzania Dubai

By Qunoosh Published: March 01, 2024 Updated on: September 25, 2026 5 min read
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KidZania Dubai beckons the young and curious to a world crafted just for them. Nestled in The Dubai Mall, this edutainment center is a realm where kids aged 4 to 16 can step into the shoes of adults and explore various professions through interactive role-play. The environment is designed to mirror real-world operations, complete with buildings, paved streets, vehicles, and a functioning economy, offering a safe, unique, and interactive environment for children to discover, explore, and learn.

Unique Concept: Kidzania Dubai

KidZania’s ethos is rooted in edutainment, a blend of education and entertainment, offering over 70 real-life role-playing activities. The young minds are introduced to the real world in a child-centric cityscape, enriching their understanding of different professions and day-to-day adult challenges. The experience is geared towards instilling independence, empathy, and a basic understanding of economics.

Age Guidelines and Offers:

  • Age Limit: KidZania is primarily designed for children aged 4 to 16. However, children aged 2 to 3 can enjoy the special toddler zone tailored to entertain younger visitors.
  • Membership: With a KidZania membership, children can enjoy regular access to the myriad of activities available, nurturing their social and intellectual growth over time.
  • Offers: Various offers and discounts are available on general admission tickets, making it a cost-effective adventure for families.

Expansive Range of Activities

KidZania boasts a realm where children can role-play more than 40 real-world professions. Each activity is a journey into the world of adulthood, offering a blend of learning and fun:

  • Education: The University at KidZania prepares children for higher education, allowing them to earn a degree in their chosen field, subsequently earning more KidZos in related professions within KidZania. Moreover, kids can explore colors, express emotions, and delve into calligraphy and handwriting at the Painting School, enhancing their fine motor skills and memory retention.
  • Healthcare: The medical profession comes alive as children role-play as doctors, nurses, or surgeons, understanding the importance of healthcare and the basic principles of medicine.
  • Emergency Services: Kids step into the boots of firefighters or the shoes of police officers, learning about safety, community service, and the essence of teamwork.
  • Aviation: The sky's the limit as young aviators learn about aviation, experiencing the thrill of flying and understanding the basics of aircraft operation.
  • Media: The bustling world of media is unraveled as kids role-play as journalists, TV anchors, or radio DJs, understanding the power and responsibility of media.
  • Culinary Arts: Budding chefs delve into the culinary world, learning about cooking, food preparation, and the joy of creating delightful dishes.

Practical Information

  • Operating Hours: KidZania operates from 10 am to 10 pm from Sunday to Thursday, and 10 am to 11 pm on Fridays and Saturdays.
  • Ticket Pricing: Ticket options vary based on age groups and preferences, with special pricing for toddlers and free entry for babies aged 0 to 1.

Beyond Role-Playing

Apart from the role-playing activities, KidZania Dubai houses attractions like a cinema, theater, and shopping area. Children can enjoy movies, watch live performances, or shop using their earned KidZos, making the experience holistic and engaging.

Conclusion

KidZania Dubai is not just a theme park; it’s a meticulously crafted educational realm where learning and fun intertwine. The myriad of activities, coupled with a safe and interactive environment, make KidZania a must-visit destination for families seeking a unique, educational, and enjoyable experience for their kids.

Planning a visit to KidZania Dubai? Book your tickets now to ensure an unforgettable adventure for your little ones. Browse through our extensive collection of family-friendly attractions in Dubai. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay updated on the latest offers and events.

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Mar 01, 2024

Dubai Ice Rink

Dubai Ice Rink is located inside The Dubai Mall and is easily accessible. It's not required that you wait until the winter or a specific month to take advantage of the offered activities in this location. If you're looking to learn or improve your ice-skating prowess, the Dubai Ice Rink is for you. Even if you don't plan on playing ice hockey or hanging out with buddies, this is the ideal spot to be in the winter. There are also a variety of games and amusements available at this location. There are also all the essential conveniences, such as nice spectator seating or a cafe on the mezzanine area where you can have a hot drink or snack while watching the skaters, as well as security lockers available for a small cost and a drinks and snacks counter. There's no better location to hang out than this arena, whether you're looking to play ice hockey, chat with friends, or just have a good time. Various games and amusements are available as well. For a safe winter trip, I'm confident that all of this makes it one of the region's most magical spots. If you'd want to learn more about this incredible vacation spot, check out my comprehensive guide to ice skating in Dubai. Timings for the Dubai Ice Rink The hours are 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. on Sunday through Wednesday, and 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. on Thursday through Saturday. Dubai Ice Rink Duration There are a variety of ice skating sessions to pick from, including Public Session and Snowfall Skating, Ice Golf, Hockey, and Disco. They are between 90 and 105 minutes long. Location of Dubai's ice rink The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, near the Burj Khalifa Dubai Ice Rink's Best Time of Year to Visit It's a year-round indoor attraction that's open year-round. Despite the fact that you may visit at any time of year, it's a perfect place to get away from Dubai's summer heat. The details of the tickets The Dubai Mall's Dubai Ice Rink offers general admission for AED 72.50 per person to skate on the ice. How to Get to the Ice Rink at Dubai Mall You may get to this attraction by taking any of the city's public transportation. Take a bus from Deira Gold Souk Station or else Ghubaiba Bus Station to get here. There are two options for those who want to get off the metro at the Burj Khalifa/The Dubai Mall Station: walk or take a feeder bus to the mall. Newcomers and those who want to avoid any hassles can now take advantage of the RTA's cab service or arrange for an individual transfer to be driven here. In addition, there are plenty of parking places for people who drive themselves to the location. The closest parking lot is Cinema Parking. Cafe Also, there is a Frosty Cafe inside the rink where you may stop for a snack after your ice-skating lesson. On Your Trip to Dubai's Ice Rink, What Can You Expect? Ice Skating Sessions Public Session The session is open to the general public, as indicated by its name. This 105-minute ice skating lesson is a terrific option whether you're wanting to improve your skating skills or simply enjoy the thrill and excitement of ice skating. Freestyle Skating Intricate spins, jumps, foot motions, etc., Freestyle Skating is developed for ice skaters who wish to improve their total skating skills. DJ Night Disco If you've ever wanted to witness the rink transformed into a lively disco floor, our two-hour DJ Night Disco is for you. The ice rink is a great place to show off your dance talents, and this gives you the chance. Dubai Snowfall This gives an authentic ice skating experience with the falling snowflakes in the backdrop. Family DJ Party It's a DJ party for the whole family, so bring your friends and family, even the little ones. Skate or glide on the ice to the sounds of an upbeat soundtrack. Lessons in ice skates There are a wide range of skating programmes available at the Dubai Ice Rink Skating Academy (DIRSA), from beginner skating classes to expert figure skating and ice hockey courses. How about this? Even four-year-olds can enrol in ice-skating sessions. Just pick from a variety of class sizes ranging from small groups to large classes of up to ten students each. You can also opt for private or semi-private courses (with not more than three people). Every week, a 30-minute class is held for seven weeks with the most experienced coaches. In order to receive a certificate, students must successfully complete the programme or level. For an additional fee, students can earn an international certification from the Ice Skating Institute Asia (ISIA). Skating Aids The Dubai Ice Rink caters to ice skaters of all abilities. In the case of younger children or those without prior ice-walking expertise, is it possible to maintain balance on the ice? Skating aids such as Penguin Pals, Bob States, Snowman, and others serve this purpose. If you're beyond the age of 12, you can use the snowman and seal aids but not the penguin buddies or the bob skates because of their lower sizes. Ice Skating Lessons fee of Dubai Ice Rink The ice rink's seven-week group learning session, which can accommodate up to ten participants, is available for a starting fee of AED 899 per person. CELEBRATIONS AT DUBAI MALL ICE RINK There's plenty of room for events and festivities at Ice Rink Dubai. The layout of the floor is flexible enough to accommodate a variety of gatherings and activities. Birthday celebration packages can also be tailored to suit the needs of the guests. For all packages, you'll get a birthday party host, skates, helmets, and lockers, as well as music for the announcements. At the time of writing, the Dubai Ice Rink provides three different birthday party packages. There's a fun Silver package, a luxurious Gold package, and a VIP package just for members. For a minimum of ten participants, Silver package Includes a public session with a coach for a total of 30 minutes. Each person must pay AED 130. Gold Package A mega disco or snowstorm disco session is included in the Gold Package. AED 150 per person is the cost of this package, which is available only to groups of at least ten people. VIP package The VIP package at the Dubai Ice Rink is one of the most luxurious options for private parties. Children under the height of 3.2 feet can enjoy snowfall with penguin safety aids as part of this package's premium features, which also include coach supervision for the duration of the session. A 15-minute appearance by a mascot is included as an extra treat for the kids. The price of a VIP package changes based on the time of year and the day of the week. AED 130 for the Silver Package The Gold Package is available for AED 150. The cost of the VIP Package is determined by the day and time of booking. The Dubai ice rink hosts sporting events The Emirates Hockey League Cup competitions are held here, as are Broomball games between corporate teams. As an added bonus, there are plenty of places to sit down and watch big sporting events like the FIFA World Cup being televised from around the world. What to wear If you're going to go ice skating at Dubai Mall, make sure you dress warmly for the weather. It's possible to accessorise your outfit with mittens, thick socks, and full-coverage sports shoes. These are especially important if you have young children. If you plan to ride an IceByke or eByke during your skating session, wear a well-fitting trouser (not too loose). Not to mention, don't wear skirts, long coats, scarves, or any other type of clothing. Dubai Ice Rinks' Rules and Regulations Safety instructions given by the marshals are important to follow, so pay attention. Keep your distance from any obstacles that need you to climb or sit on. Throwing, spraying, or making ice holes are not acceptable behaviours. Skate at a reasonable speed. If you fall, protect your head. Protect your fingertips by putting them in the balls. Observe your fellow skaters; don't hop or go around them; and, of course, be kind to the fewest skaters possible. It's against the rules to participate in tag games, whip-changes, and the like. If skaters do not adhere to any of the rules or principles listed above, the facility has the power to ban them from the rink or the entire premises. Safeguards for the Family and Children's Protection The in-house shop has a wide selection of skates, helmets, and other protective gear for rent or purchase. Thick socks and other ice-skating necessities are also available for purchase at the shop. Children under the age of one metre can wear helmets for free. To keep your personal stuff safe, lockers are available at the facility. There is, however, a small fee of AED 15 (per session). In addition to a first-aid area, on-site nurses and ice marshals are on hand. In addition to cutting-edge technology, the facility includes machines like Zamboni to maintain the ice's consistency. Cafes and other dining establishments can be found in the area. Dubai's Ice Rink's Best Tricks With a wide range of ice skating assemblies available, you can choice the one that best meets your preferences or ability level. I doubt you'd sign up for the Disco Ice Skating class if you were unfamiliar with strobe lighting. Children should not be brought onto the ice surface at any time. Check to see if you've done everything you can to protect yourself and that your skates are correctly attached before you begin spinning on the ice. To get the most out of your skating experience, leave your bags, phones, and other personal possessions at home. Top Dubai Ice Rinks Attractions and Lodestones The Dubai Mall and Downtown Dubai have a lot to offer beyond the Dubai Ice Rink, so don't limit your visit to simply the rink. Select a package that includes some of the region's most popular attractions, such as: Dubai Aquarium and the Underwater Zoo, KidZania Dubai, VR Park, Hysteria, Reel Cinemas, Dubai Dino, Souk Al Bahar, Burj Khalifa. Conclusion There's no better place in Dubai to spend some quality time or make some magical memories than the Dubai Ice Rink. But that's not all; because to its handy location, you and your family may enjoy a memorable day out during your Dubai vacations.

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Mushrif Park
Mar 01, 2024

Mushrif Park

Mushrif Park is one of Dubai’s oldest and largest parks, offering a serene escape from the city’s bustling urban life. Located in the Al Khawaneej area, Mushrif Park spans over 5.25 square kilometers and features many attractions and activities suitable for families, nature lovers, and outdoor enthusiasts. With its lush greenery, picnic spots, playgrounds, and outdoor activities, it’s the perfect place for a day out with friends and family. Key Highlights of Mushrif Park 1. Extensive Green Spaces and Picnic Areas Mushrif Park is known for its expansive green lawns and shaded picnic spots, making it a favorite destination for families looking to enjoy a relaxed day outdoors. The park is equipped with barbecue facilities, benches, and designated areas for picnics, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal in the great outdoors. 2. Aventura Parks: Ziplining and Adventure Courses For thrill-seekers, Aventura Parks is one of the main attractions in Mushrif Park. This adventure park offers: Ziplining through the trees. Rope courses with different difficulty levels for children and adults. Climbing walls, balance beams, and swings. It’s a fantastic destination for those looking to combine fitness with fun. With multiple circuits ranging from beginner to advanced levels, Aventura Parks is perfect for groups, families, and corporate team-building events. 3. International Village One of the unique features of Mushrif Park is the International Village, which showcases miniature houses representing traditional homes from various countries around the world. You can explore small replicas of homes from regions like: Germany England Thailand Saudi Arabia These structures provide a fun, educational experience for children and a cultural insight for visitors. 4. Equestrian Center The park is home to an Equestrian Center where visitors can experience horseback riding through the scenic trails of the park. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced rider, the center offers guided lessons and trail rides, making it a fun and unique way to explore the park. 5. Children’s Play Areas and Train Rides Mushrif Park is family-friendly, with large playground areas for children. The park also features mini-train rides, offering children a fun way to explore the park’s vast grounds. Other kid-friendly attractions include: Swings and slides Climbing structures Water features for cooling off during warmer months 6. Swimming Pools and Sports Facilities Mushrif Park also features swimming pools, providing a great way to beat the heat. The park has separate pools for men and women, and lifeguards are always on duty to ensure the safety of swimmers. In addition, the park offers basketball, volleyball, and football courts, making it an excellent spot for those looking to stay active while enjoying the outdoors. 7. Walking and Cycling Paths For those who enjoy leisurely walks or bike rides, Mushrif Park has well-maintained walking and cycling paths that wind through the park’s scenic landscape. It’s a great place for a morning jog or an evening stroll, and the natural surroundings make for a peaceful escape from the city. 8. Birdwatching and Wildlife Mushrif Park is home to a variety of birds and wildlife, making it an ideal spot for birdwatching. The park’s natural forested areas attract many bird species, and visitors may even catch a glimpse of local wildlife, such as ghaf trees, which provide shelter for various animals. Ticket Prices and Entry Entrance Fee: AED 3 per person or AED 10 per car. Aventura Parks: Ticket prices for Aventura Parks vary, starting at AED 150 for adults and AED 95 for children. How to Get to Mushrif Park By Car: Mushrif Park is located in the Al Khawaneej area, approximately 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport. The park is easily accessible by car, and there is plenty of parking available inside the park. By Public Transport: You can take the Dubai Metro to Rashidiya Station on the Red Line and then transfer to a bus or taxi to reach the park. Google Maps Location: Operating Hours Sunday to Wednesday: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM Thursday to Saturday: 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM Contact Information Phone: +971 4 288 3624 Website: Mushrif Park Final Thoughts Mushrif Park is a hidden gem in Dubai, offering a variety of outdoor activities and attractions for people of all ages. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a peaceful picnic, explore nature, or have an adventure-filled day at Aventura Parks, Mushrif Park has something for everyone. It’s the perfect place for families, adventure enthusiasts, and those seeking a break from the urban hustle.

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Why Do Dubai Hot Air Balloon Rides Always Happen at Sunrise? From 3,000 AED
Sep 24, 2026

Why Do Dubai Hot Air Balloon Rides Always Happen at Sunrise?

Nobody loves a 4 am alarm on holiday. So why can't you take a balloon ride in the Dubai desert at a civilised hour, or at sunset like a desert safari?The sunrise is beautiful, but that isn't really why balloons fly then. It's about air temperature, wind and safety. Here's the explanation in plain English.Quick AnswerHot air balloons in Dubai fly at sunrise because the early-morning air is cool, calm and stable. Once the sun heats the desert sand, it creates rising currents of hot air (thermals) and gusty winds that make balloon flight unpredictable and landings unsafe. Cool air also gives the balloon more lift, so it can carry more people with less fuel.Reason 1: The Winds Are Calmest Around DawnBalloons can only fly safely in light winds. Unlike a plane or helicopter, a balloon has no engine to push it; it travels with the wind. Gentle wind means a smooth flight and a soft landing. Strong or gusty wind means a fast, bumpy landing, or no flight at all.In the desert, wind is usually at its lightest in the early morning. As the day warms up, the wind generally picks up, often through the afternoon.Reason 2: No Desert Thermals YetWhen the sun heats the sand, the air just above it warms and rises in columns called thermals. Birds of prey and gliders love them. Balloons don't.A balloon flying into a thermal can be lifted or pushed unexpectedly, which makes it hard for the pilot to control altitude precisely. Desert sand heats quickly, so thermals start forming not long after sunrise. By mid-morning, conditions are usually no longer suitable. That's why flights are timed to take off around first light and land before the heat builds.Reason 3: Cool Air Means More LiftA hot air balloon flies because the air inside the envelope is hotter, and therefore lighter, than the air outside. The bigger the temperature difference, the more lift the balloon gets.On a cool morning, the pilot only needs to heat the envelope a moderate amount to get strong lift.On a hot afternoon, when the air outside might be 40°C or more, the envelope would have to be heated much more to generate the same lift, which means more fuel, more strain on the fabric and fewer passengers.This is also why balloon flights are easier in the cooler months, and why passenger weight matters so much at booking.Reason 4: Stable Air for a Smooth, Quiet FlightOvernight the ground cools, leaving a layer of cool, stable air near the surface. This stable layer is what gives you that famous smooth, silent feeling on a sunrise flight, where it feels like you're standing still while the world moves below.Reason 5: Safer LandingsEverything comes together at the end of the flight. Light winds mean a slower landing speed, and the chase crew can reach the landing site easily across the desert. That's why the safety rules put so much emphasis on the weather.Reason 6 (the Bonus): The LightAnd yes, the view. Sunrise light is low and warm, so it brings out every ripple in the dunes, casts long shadows and turns the sand orange and gold. Wildlife is also more active in the cool morning. It's the best time of day to see the desert, as well as the safest time to fly. Find out what you see from the basket.Why Not at Sunset?Evenings are usually windier and the air is still warm from the day, with thermals still rising from hot sand. Even if conditions calmed down, the balloon would have to land as it got dark, which makes it much harder for the pilot to judge the landing and for the chase crew to follow. Sunrise gives the pilot more daylight and calmer air for landing.Is There a Best Season for Sunrise Flights?Flights run through much of the year, but the cooler months (roughly October to April) usually have the most comfortable temperatures, clearer air and the best views. In summer, the sun rises earlier, so pickups are earlier too. See our guide to the best time to visit Dubai.Making the Early Start EasierGo to bed early the night before and lay out your clothes.Sleep on the drive. Your driver knows the way.Choose a package with breakfast to recover afterwards.Skip the 4 am alarm altogether with the overnight package: spend the evening and night at a desert camp, and wake up close to the launch site.[tours codes="AUT-HB-05,AUT-HB-03,AUT-HB-09"]Frequently Asked QuestionsWhat time is pickup for a Dubai balloon ride?Usually between around 4 and 5 am, depending on the season and where you're staying. Your exact time is sent the evening before.Can a flight be cancelled even at sunrise?Yes. If the wind, visibility or forecast isn't suitable, the operator will cancel or reschedule. You can then pick another date or get a refund.How long is the flight?Up to 60 minutes, depending on wind and weather on the day.Browse all sunrise hot air balloon rides in Dubai.

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What to Expect on Your First Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dubai From 2,000 AED
Sep 23, 2026

What to Expect on Your First Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dubai

Your first hot air balloon ride is a mix of excitement and questions. What time do I need to be up? Will it be cold? Does it feel scary? What happens when we land?This step-by-step guide takes you through a typical morning so nothing comes as a surprise.Quick AnswerExpect a pickup around 4–5 am, a drive to the desert of around an hour, refreshments and a safety briefing while the balloons are inflated, then up to 60 minutes of flight at sunrise. After a gentle landing you receive your flight certificate and, depending on your package, enjoy breakfast, a camel ride and archery before returning to Dubai by late morning.Before You Go: Booking EssentialsPassport copy for every passenger, needed at booking (GCAA regulation)Each passenger's weight, also at booking. Passengers over 119 kg (260 lbs) need an additional seat.Age: 5 to 80 yearsHealth: not suitable for pregnant women, or for people with heart conditions, severe back or knee problems, major surgery in the last 6 months or a fear of heightsYou'll get your pickup time the evening before. Flights depend on the weather, so keep your phone on in case of any change.Step-by-Step: Your Balloon Morning1. Early pickup (around 4–5 am)A 4x4 collects you from your hotel. On shared packages, the driver may make a few stops for other guests. Most people doze on the drive. If you've chosen the self-drive option, you'll get directions to the meeting point with your confirmation.2. Arrival at the launch siteYou arrive in the dark to a traditional majlis with tea, coffee and light refreshments. There are basic toilet facilities here; use them, as there aren't any on the balloon.3. Safety briefing and waiverThe crew explains how to get in and out of the basket and how to hold the landing position. Everyone signs a waiver. Listen carefully; it only takes a few minutes.4. Watching the inflationFans blow cold air into the envelopes, then the burners heat it and the balloons slowly rise off the sand. It's loud, bright and spectacular. Get your camera ready (see our photography tips).5. Climbing inOnce the balloon is upright, you climb into the basket using footholds in its side. It's a bit of a scramble, which is why you need to be moderately fit.6. Take-offThis surprises most first-timers: you barely feel it. There's no jolt; the ground just quietly drops away. Because you move with the wind, it feels calm, even at height.7. The flight (up to 60 minutes)The sun rises over the dunes, the other balloons spread across the sky, and the pilot changes altitude to find the best winds and views. Between burner blasts, it's remarkably quiet. Read more about what you'll see from the balloon.8. LandingThe pilot tells you when to take the landing position: knees bent, back to the direction of travel and holding the handles. Most landings are gentle. On a breezy morning, the basket may bump, tip onto its side or slide a little way, which is completely normal.9. Flight certificate and activitiesEveryone receives an official flight certificate. Then, depending on your package, you'll have a buffet breakfast at the desert camp, a camel ride, archery, a quad bike ride or a vintage Land Rover ride.10. Return to DubaiYou're driven back to your hotel, usually arriving by late morning. Most people are pleasantly tired, so plan something relaxed for the afternoon.How It FeelsMotion sickness? Very rare, as the balloon moves smoothly with the wind.Scary? Most people find it much calmer than expected. That said, it isn't recommended for anyone with a fear of heights.Hot or cold? Cold on the ground before dawn, especially November to March. Warm under the burners, and warmer again once the sun is up.Noisy? The burners roar in short bursts. In between, it's silent.What to WearLayers: a light jacket or fleece you can take off after sunriseClosed-toe flat shoes: the landing site is sandy and unevenA cap or hat: the burners overhead give off heatAvoid long loose scarves, dresses that make climbing difficult, and high heelsFor more ideas, see our desert outfit guide.What to BringPhone or camera with a strap, fully chargedSmall bag you can hold on your lap in the car (space in the basket is tight)Sunglasses for after sunriseAny medication you needCash or card for photos or souvenirsBest Packages for a First FlightFor most first-timers, we recommend the Deluxe package with breakfast: the complete sunrise morning, with time at the desert camp to relax afterwards. If you're watching your budget, the Standard flight gives you the same time in the air. Not sure? Read Standard vs Deluxe vs Adventure.[tours codes="AUT-HB-03,AUT-HB-01,AUT-HB-02"]What If the Flight Is Cancelled?All flights depend on the weather and may be rescheduled or cancelled for safety, sometimes at the last minute. If the operator cancels, you can choose another date or receive a refund. Tip: book your flight early in your trip, so there's time to reschedule if needed.Frequently Asked QuestionsDo I need to be fit?Moderately. You need to climb in and out of the basket without help and stand for up to an hour.Can I bring a bag?Keep it small. Space in the basket is limited, and the crew may ask you to leave larger bags in the vehicle.Is breakfast included?It's included in the Deluxe, Adventure, Vintage Land Rover and Overnight packages. The Standard package includes refreshments but not breakfast.Ready for your first flight? Browse all hot air balloon rides in Dubai.

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