While the UAE is known for making the impossible possible, there are still some things that we don’t have the luxury of enjoying here, for example, skiing – and no, Ski Dubai doesn’t cut it.
The good news is that we’re only a plane ride away from some of the best winter destinations in the world, making a quick ski break feasible.
Here are some of the best nearby places to go on a skiing adventure at this time of year.
Regarded as the largest ski resort in the Middle East, this icy wonderland, located about an hour away from Beirut, features slopes ranging from 1,850 to 2,465 metres.
The various peaks mean that new and experienced skiers can find a run that fits their skill level.
The views are pretty cool, too: standing on Mzaar slope – the highest peak – you can catch a glimpse of Bekaa Valley, Mount Hermon and even the capital, Beirut.
Being a well-known ski destination since the 60s, Mzaar Kfardebian has increased its offers over the years for the hordes of tourists that visit during the months of December and April. So you can also enjoy cross-country trails, alpine skiing, snowboarding and night skiing.
Ski shows take place occasionally and there’s also a children’s ski park supervised by trained instructors to keep little ones safe.
To top it all off, the essential amenities are close at hand, including equipment hire, chalets and restaurants.
*Etihad Airways flies from Abu Dhabi to Beirut from around AED 900.
A four-hour flight will take you to the largest ski resort in Central Asia, known for its sunny days, mild climate and decent amount of snow during winter.
Since its establishment in 1940, Shymbulak resort has welcomed skiers from around the world to enjoy the snow-covered rugged mountain range during the months of November and May. Shymbulak also hosted the 2011 Asian Winter Games and has served as a training ground for Olympic athletes in the past.
Located in the beautiful gorge of the Trans-Ili Alatau, the resort features three ski lifts with corresponding stations: Intersection, Prop and Talgar Pass, which at 3,200 metres above sea level is the highest point of the resort.
Despite being a popular destination, the area isn’t crammed with commercial establishments like some resorts.
For accommodation, Shymbulak Resort Hotel will keep you at the centre of the action, with a selection of rooms located 100 metres from the ski lifts.
With Shymbulak located only a 15-minute drive from Almaty – the largest city in the country – staying overnight in the city is another option, where you’ll be closer to more amenities as well as other tourist attractions in the area for when you want to explore.
*Air Astana flies from Abu Dhabi to Kazakhstan from around AED 1,100.
Georgia has become a favourite tourist destination for UAE residents because of its accessibility and affordability, plus it’s only a three-hour flight.
When it comes to skiing, the Gudauri ski resort – two hours’ drive from the capital, Tbilisi – is worth checking out during the months of December to April.
Rising 2,196 metres above sea level, this winter destination features slopes that spread over Mt Kudebi and Mt Sadzele, with varying degrees to suit beginners and experienced skiers alike.
As for the other activities, visitors can try downhill skiing, night skiing, cross-country trails and ski tours. What’s more, experienced skiers and snowboarders can try freeriding – a snowboarding activity on ungroomed terrain – accompanied by the resort’s guide.
Accommodation options include hotels, apartments and guesthouses, while restaurants serving local and international cuisine are readily available.
*Pegasus Airlines flies from Abu Dhabi to Tbilisi from AED 1,400.
Located five hours from Abu Dhabi, this Balkan nation in southeast Europe is a magnet for ski fans, not just because of its snowy forest and terrain but other tourist attractions as well.
While there’s no shortage of ski resorts in the area, Kopaonik Mountain is considered the most popular and is also the largest, with 23 ski lifts, around 55km of trails to explore and areas suitable for cross-country skiing.
Beginners and intermediate skiers will love the adrenaline rush of navigating the snowy forest. There’s even a downhill route measuring 3.5km while night owls can indulge in evening skiing and snowboarding.
Nearby restaurants and bars offer après-ski entertainment, and there are plenty of accommodation options to chose from, including apartments and hotels.
*Pegasus Airlines flies from Abu Dhabi to Belgrade from AED 1,600.
Gorgeous even during the winter months, the quiet town of Tsaghkadzor houses a popular ski resort frequented by tourists during the months of December to April.
Nestled on the scenic slopes of Mt Tanegiz, the resort stands 1,750 metres above sea level, with the top skiing point offering splendid views of Lake Sevan and Mount Ararat.
Visitors can enjoy 12km of diverse ski tracks for skiing, snowboarding and snow mobile activities.
The location is only 40 minutes away from the capital, Yerevan, and the scenic drive offers splendid views of magnificent snow-covered sites such as old churches and chapels dating back to the 11th century.
Complementing the activities are the leisure facilities such as saunas, bars and restaurants serving Armenian dishes, coffee and beverages.
Accommodation options won’t be a problem either with a selection of hotels, apartments and guesthouses in the vicinity.
*Etihad Airways flies from Abu Dhabi to Yerevan from AED 2,000.
*Airfares may vary and are subject to change depending on date and period of booking.
WORDS Ferdinand Godinez
