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Dubai Ski Dubai 
Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort with an Indoor Ski Area covering 22,500 square meters. It has a 85-meter high indoor mountain with five slopes of varying difficulty, including the world's first indoor black diamond run. Adjacent to the slopes is a 3,000-square-meter Snow Park with sled and toboggan runs, an icy body slide, climbing towers, giant snowballs, and an ice cave. All of these are maintained at a temperature of -1 to 2 °C (30 to 36 °F) throughout the year. This was to present a significant challenge and called for advanced climate control technologies. It also called for ensuring that the equipment and facilities were maintained in the hot desert environment requiring innovative solutions and regular upkeep. Construction of Ski Dubai began in September 2003 and took around two years to complete, with the opening taking place in November 2005. The construction of Ski Dubai was a significant engineering feat and presented several unique challenges due to its location in the desert and the need to create a winter environment in a hot climate. The structure is designed like a large Thermos flask, with double-skinned walls and voids between the inner and outer layers to maintain the cold temperature inside. It consists of a 3,000-tonne steel frame which was lifted by strand jacks mounted in four temporary towers. The frame was lifted at a rate of 1 meter per hour, and it took two weeks to complete all the permanent connections. The walls are clad with thick layers of polyisocyanurate panels, similar to those used in cold storage facilities The building's exterior is designed to resemble a ski slope, with a curved structure with a length of 1,312 feet (400 meters). It has a sleek, sloping roof that resembles the contours of a mountain slope. The ski slope features five different slopes to resemble mountain skiing. The floor is composed of different gradients to avoid the slipping of snow, all of which is real and produced using snow guns and a chiller plant. This is made by spraying water and compressed air into the cold environment, where it crystallizes into snowflakes. The facade is primarily made of glass and metal, giving it a modern and futuristic look while allowing natural light to enter the complex while providing insulation to maintain the cold temperature inside. The metal cladding helps in reflecting the intense desert heat, aiding in the energy efficiency of the building. Ski Dubai is located within the Mall of the Emirates, and its exterior blends with the mall's overall architectural design. The mall contains many shopping and dining facilities and contains clear signage to the ski resort. The entrance to Ski Dubai is in itself impressive and sets the tone for the snow experience inside. Located on the ground floor of the Mall of the Emirates, the entrance features a large snow-covered facade with ice sculptures and a giant snowman welcoming visitors. On entry visitors immediately experience a chilly, snowy environment, complete with real snow and ice. At the base of the slopes, there are several dining options providing a variety of food choices. There are also shops selling winter sports gear and souvenirs, although the mall itself has numerous shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.  The main area consists of five ski slopes of varying difficulty and length, including a beginners' area and the world's first indoor black diamond run. The slopes are covered in real snow, providing an authentic skiing and snowboarding experience. A chairlift takes visitors to the top of the slopes, providing a scenic view of the entire facility.  The Snow Park area is a family-friendly space with a variety of activities. It features toboggan runs, sledding, a giant Zorb ball, an area for snowball fights, climbing walls and an ice cave.  Within the building is a Penguin Enclosure where visitors can interact with Gentoo and King penguins. The enclosure is designed to replicate the penguins' natural habitat and includes pools and play areas. The facility offers educational programs and team-building activities for schools and corporate groups. These programs cover topics like snow science, winter sports, and environmental conservation. It also includes a ski school with classrooms and meeting areas for lessons and group activities. Professional instructors provide lessons for all skill levels. In addition, throughout the year, competitions, ski races, and snowboarding events are held. Also organised are special themed events during holidays and it provides a venue for birthday parties and private celebrations.
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All Photographs were taken by and are copyright of Ron Gatepain
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