Looking for thrills without stepping out into the heat? These simulations have got you (literally) covered…

With the temperature rising, it’s time to move things indoors. Thankfully, the rise of virtual reality (VR) has spawned some incredible simulators from flying a plane, to skydiving, to ghost hunting. The experiences are so realistic, you’ll be forgiven for mistaking it for the real thing. So whether you’re a thrill seeker or sports fan, you’ll find something to keep you entertained.

Here are 10 virtual reality simulators in Dubai you need to try:

1. iFly Skydiving simulator

If jumping out of a plane is a bit too daunting, this is the next best (and less scary) thing. The free falling experience is replicated in a vertical wind tunnel that’ll have you feeling like you’re in the sky. The VR headsets let you soar over some of the world’s best destinations too – and best of all it’s right here in Dubai.

iFly Skydiving simulator, City Centre Mirdif, Ghoroob, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs450. Tel: (04) 231 6292. theplaymania.com

2. VR Park

Where on Earth can you rob a bank, dune bash and go skiing all on the same day (and without going to jail)? The world’s largest VR park of course. Whether you’re in the mood for a shoot-‘em-up game or going paragliding, the simulations here will have you believe you’re experiencing the real thing. Our favourite is Paradrop, a paragliding experience that combines VR and physical movement to make you feel like you’re gliding through the air.

Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, Sun to Wed 10am to 11pm, Thur and Sat 10am to 1am, experiences priced from Dhs90. VRparkdubai.com

3. Wave Rider

Whether it’s your first time on a board or you’re a seasoned pro, the new wave machine at Wavehouse will have you ready to tackle the ocean in no time. It’s as close to a sea-simulation are you can get, allowing you to practise your body boarding whatever the weather. Once you’re done you can head inside for some food and drink too.

Wavehouse at Atlantis, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, daily 10am to 6pm. Dhs100. wavehousedubai.com

 4. Emirates flight simulator

Forget flying Economy, boost yourself right up to the cockpit with the Emirates A380 flight simulator experience. There’s no need to book a flight to take to the skies, as the experience will see you in control of the world’s largest passenger aircraft. What’s more, you choose your destination, time and weather conditions, so you’ll never experience any delays.

Emirates flight simulator, Reel Cinemas, Dubai Mall, Dubai, emiratesa380experience.com 

5. RaceRoom

Hone your driving skills with this virtual experience that uses automation software to track your driving movements. Each console is linked to a live broadcast system that shows your timing and results.

Dubai Autodrome, Motorcity, Dubai, Dhs21, 9am to 5pm, Tel: (04) 806 2220, dubaiautodrome.com

6. Cricket simulator

Now you can improve your batting skills by playing against the pros. The technology at Just Play not only replicates the bowler’s action perfectly, but also the speed, spin and bounce they generate. The high-tech cameras track every move and even offer replays so you can see where you’re going wrong. Some of the legendary bowlers you will face include Anil Kumble, Wasim Akram and Shane Warne.

Just Play, 15A Street, Al Quoz, Dubai, from Dhs25. Tel: (04) 348 3879. justplay.ae

7. Golf simulator

Walking around a golf course during a Dubai summer isn’t advisable. Luckily, a new simulator in JLT sets you on some of the top courses in the world, thanks to the world of VR. The technology launch monitor offers superb swinging accuracy, so you can perfect your skills in time for winter.

Urban Links Golf Simulator, Concorde Tower 1, Cluster H, JLT, Dubai,  from Dhs150. Tel: (04) 422 8993. urbanlinksindoorgolf.com

8. Krrish: Heroes’ Flight

Bollywood’s favourite superhero is fighting crime and inviting you along for the ride. All the action takes place in the impressive 4D flying theatre ride. Seats rattle and shake as the battle commences, so buckle up and help Krrish save planet earth from an alien invasion.

Bollywood Parks Dubai, Dhs100, daily 1pm to 11pm, Tel: (800) 262 9464. bollywoodparksdubai.com

9. The Void: Ghostbusters Dimension

Children and adults will enjoy this hyper-reality simulator. The aim? You and three friends must rid a derelict building, in New York City, of ghosts haunting the venue.

Hub Zero, City Walk, Dubai, Dhs75 when booked online, Sat to Wed 2pm to 10pm, Thur and Fri 2pm to midnight. Tel: (04) 317 3999. hubzerodubai.com

10. Hulk Epsilon Base 3D – IMG Worlds of Adventure

The world’s biggest indoor theme park doesn’t disappoint when it comes to ride simulators. This one sees you sat in a state-of-the-art stereoscopic cinema dome to see Marvel’s Hulk, the Incredible Avenger, battle against his deadliest foe in stunning 3D. The simulator is a 360-degree, fully immersive viewing experience of one of Hulk’s greatest battles.

IMG Worlds of Adventure, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs115, daily 11am to 8pm. Tel: (04) 403 8888. imgworlds.com

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