Aquaventure

The most popular water park in Dubai and, with over 17 adventure-filled hectares of rapids, slides, water coasters and vertical drops, it's easy to see why.

Aquaventure water park caters for everyone from young children to older adrenaline lovers. Set your heart racing by beginning your water-based adventure with a trip into The Ziggurat, an ancient Asian-style tower which dominates the park at 30 metres above ground.If you are brave enough, try The Leap of Faith, a ride that will see you plummet over 9 storeys in seconds, shooting you down a clear tube through a lagoon filled with sharks and rays!If you'd like something slightly less terrifying, then Aquaventure's water rollercoasters are an action-packed way to spend your time. Riders are launched into winding dark tunnels at high speed until they eventually resurface in the water park's river.The Rapids is a 1.6-kilometre river ride that surrounds The Ziggurat, Aquaventure's centrepiece. Jump into your inner tube and let The Rapids take you on an adventure through wave surges, waterfalls and rapids. This also serves as the water park's innovative transportation system, letting you drift along or have another go on the water slides without ever having to leave your tube.Younger children are also catered for with Splashers, a water playground offering a gentler water park experience. With water games, rope bridges, climbing frames, slides and rides, and even water cannons, children will be safely entertained for hours.Visit the Shark Lagoon to swim or snorkel with sharks, rays and tropical fish. This is a popular attraction, so places are limited; check the water park's official website for details.If all that adrenaline has you worn out, why not relax on Aquaventure's exclusive private beach, take a stroll by the sea or kick back at either of the two pools available?Aquaventure water park is located in the Atlantis Resort on the man-made Palm Jumeirah Island. It's approximately 30 minutes from downtown Dubai, with a taxi being the most convenient way to get there. The park is open every day, but times vary according to season, so check the official website for the current schedule.