Atlantis, The Palm, has added a new attraction to Dubai’s towering skyline, and it’s not for the faint-hearted. The Dubai Balloon is a tethered hot air balloon that floats visitors up to 300 metres above Palm Jumeirah, offering breathtaking 360-degree views.
The experience starts with a safety briefing, after which passengers board the doughnut-shaped passenger compartment basket, which can accommodate up to 20 people. As the balloon starts to ascend, passengers hold on to the safety rail and witness the ground fading away beneath them. The balloon reaches a peak of 150 metres and floats above Atlantis, The Palm, and its new neighbor Atlantis The Royal.
The famous outline of Palm Jumeirah is clear to see, along with the towering Marina skyline and the outline of Downtown on the horizon. Passengers are encouraged to walk around the gondola, which is fitted with a safety net, to take in the views and snap pictures from all angles. The experience lasts about 10 minutes and costs D175 for adults and Dh75 for children, with a fast pass ticket available for Dh275 for adults and Dh125 for children. The Dubai Balloon offers a more affordable way to enjoy the experience of being in a balloon and taking in the city from one of the best viewpoints. The views are definitely worth it, although it’s not recommended for those who are afraid of heights.
