Sand boarding and skiing has added a whole new dimension to two sports once limited to areas with snow. Once adrenaline junkies found that snow boards and skis could be used on smooth sandy surfaces with the same effect there was no stopping them. Now there are several keen followers of these sports who regularly sand board and ski where there are impressive dune formations. Towering sand dunes in the Liwa Oasis bordering the Empty Quarter in Abu Dhabi are popular both with sand boarders and sand skiers.
Where ever there are dunes or a considerable build up of sand there are sand boarders who want to swish down their sides and experience an adrenaline rush. Sand boarders ride across or down a dune with their feet strapped to a board although some daring and more experienced types ride without the straps. Unlike snow boarders sand boarders don’t have the advantage of being taken to the top of a dune by a lift. They generally have to clamber up the dune themselves or use an ATV or a dune buggy. Sand boarding is enjoyed by enthusiasts throughout the year in desert climates where there is plenty of sand and of course dunes. The board used for sand boarding is much harder than a snow board and it has to be waxed prior to use to make the board glide. On steeper dunes snow boards are also used.
Abu Dhabi’s sand dunes towering several hundred meters above the surrounding area are ideal for sand skiing enthusiasts. Novice sand skiers are advised to start on the smaller slopes prior to attempting the 300 meter high Liwa dunes. Other than in the cooler months the best times to both sand board and ski are the early mornings. A thick layer of sunscreen, light clothing covering most parts of the body and sun glasses is advised when taking to these sports. Additionally it is better to have basic lessons on how to stay up and fall properly and safely before attempting the dunes. Children too can try but on the lower slopes and a plastic sledge will afford them a great deal of pleasure flying down the ‘nursery slopes’.
On Sir Bani Yas Island just off the coast of Abu Dhabi in the Arabian Gulf Desert Island Resort & Spa by Anantara not only offers an extraordinary location but some of the most luxurious guest rooms, suites and villas from where guests can explore the beautiful natural environment around this Abu Dhabi resort. Food is one of the experiences here where guest get to taste a variety of local and international cuisines, the other is the amazing landscape which can be enjoyed via kayaking trips, mountain biking, trekking, on safari and on horseback. As one of Abu Dhabi beach hotels guests have access to several water sports among which are special diving and snorkeling packages.
Thanuja Silva is a travel writer who writes under the pen name Auburn Silver. She has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
Towering high over the plains of Al Ain, the Jebel Hafeet stands proud as the tallest peak in the entire Emirate. There is a rugged beauty about Jebel Hafeet; its surface red and raw is the evidence of its endurance. The chiselled edges of the Jebel Hafeet gives it sheer majesty, the mere sight of which will leave you in awe and will give you an authentic taste of the desert side of the United Arab Emirates.
Once you reach the top of the mountain you will be rewarded by unmatched beauty, sceneries that will take your breath away and magnificent bird’s eye views of Al Ain. After an adventurous day at the peak, come home to the Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara. This 
Al Ain also referred to as the Green city is the second biggest city in the Emirates of Abu Dhabi. With so much to see in this delightful city Al Ain Oasis is undoubtedly one of the must see spots. It is the largest oasis in the country. This marvelous Al Ain oasis is declared as a world heritage site by the UNESCO.
Al ain has seven oases in which the biggest one is the Al ain Oasis. A visit to the Oasis will be really worth it as it is an amazing place out of the usual barren life of the desert. And of course do not forget to taste some of the delicious mouthwatering date palms while you leisurely walk in Al ain oasis.