Dubai Sports World 101
All you need to know about Dubai’s biggest indoor fitness facility
One of the worst things about the Dubai summer is having to say goodbye (at least temporarily) to our usual sporty, outdoorsy lifestyle. Fortunately, you can always count on Dubai Sports World as the place to go for your air-conditioned fitness fix.
The massive sporty space, located within a transformed Dubai World Trade Centre, will be open all summer, from June 1 to September 2, providing a much needed refuge during the hottest months of the year. It’s the largest indoor sports venue in Dubai, and there’s something for everyone. The activities and facilities on offer include: a cycling studio, a gym, five-a-side footie pitches, badminton courts, volleyball courts, tennis courts, a cricket pitch, ping pong tables, a 500m running track and even a wrestling ring. For obstacle course fans, there’s a ‘Ninja Warrior’ course, and a mini trampoline park if you just fancy a leisurely bounce rather than a hardcore workout. Look out for the ever-popular Rage skatepark, which will be back too.
Entry to the venue is free, but you will have to pay to use certain facilities. Pitches can be booked online ahead of time (non-refundable) and the price will vary depending on the sport. For example, cricket and tennis pitch rentals cost Dhs80, while football and rugby pitch rentals start at Dhs240. You can even join a team or academy to sharpen your skills. There are plenty of options, including the IFA Football Academy, Dubai pro wrestling and Fitness360. The latter will be hosting workout classes in the gym.
Dubai Sports World is suitable for all ages, and is in fact a great place to keep the little ones entertained. They can join the Just Play Multisports Camp and be led in a range of safe, fun activities, supervised by qualified coaches. The camp costs from Dhs195 per day and there’s a ten per cent discount for siblings.
There’s plenty of parking nearby; both paid parking in the multistory car park of Sheikh Rashid Hall and free parking within walking distance. Plus, it’s just a short (albeit sweaty) stroll from the Dubai World Trade Centre metro station.
For anyone working out before or after work, there are changing rooms and shower facilities, but bring your own toiletries, and be warned that there are no lockers.
June 1 to September 2
Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai, daily 8am to 1am, free. Tel: (04) 3064000. Metro: Dubai World Trade Centre. dubaisportsworld.ae