Bullseye Bonanza: Dubai's Best Archery Clubs
In this fast-paced era of social media, short-form videos have taken over the internet. Platforms like TikTok and Reels have become the go-to source of entertainment for the younger generation. But obviously, this constant scrolling can have a significant impact on one's life, leading to a lack of focus and productivity. Children, in particular, have become heavily reliant on their iPads and phones for entertainment, leaving little to no time for hobbies or other creative pursuits.
Engaging in hobbies is essential for personal growth and development, as they offer a way to nurture your mind and improve your skills. Hobbies can be as simple as painting and playing instruments or as adventurous as horse riding and sports. In the UAE, archery is a popular hobby that is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. Archery not only provides a fun and challenging activity but also helps focus and discipline, making it a beneficial hobby for people of all ages.
History of Archery
Archery has been a big part of Arab history, dating all the way back to 70 CE. Used for centuries by hunters all over the Middle East, archery has even helped during military training and wars. Thanks to the effectiveness of long-range combat, it became a valuable skill for Arab warriors.
Archery in the Modern Day
Today, archery has evolved into more than just a survival and hunting sport. Instead, it became a hobby and interest for millions worldwide. With depictions of archery in movies like The Hunger Games and Avengers, the newer generation was introduced to the sport. So whether you want to let out your inner Katniss Everdeen or practice your sniping skills like Hawkeye, archery clubs in Dubai have got your back.
Here are the best archery clubs in the city!
JA Hatta Fort Hotel
Located in the serene Hatta mountains, JA Fort Hotel is a luxurious retreat nestled amidst natural beauty. With its stunning architecture and tranquil surroundings, the hotel offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
If you're looking for some adventure along with your relaxation, then JA Fort Hotel has you covered. The resort offers countless different activities, including padel tennis, wildlife rides, and of course archery. With highly-trained professionals at your side, you can practice your skills and try out the age-old sport in a safe and monitored environment!
Location: Hatta
Timings: From 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Price: 50 AED | 30 AED for hotel guests
Contact: 04-8145-400
Jebel Ali Shooting Club
Located just a short drive away from the Jebel Ali Beach Hotel, the Jebel Ali Shooting Club is a go-to spot for those looking to practice their aim. As the name suggests, the club is all about shooting, whether it's bullets or arrows.
The venue, which is designed like a fortress, offers a variety of shooting ranges and equipment for both beginners and experienced shooters to enjoy. With expert instructors on hand to provide guidance, visitors can improve their skills in a safe and controlled environment.
Location: Jebel Ali
Timings: From 1:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Price: 80 AED for members | 110 AED for non-members
Contact: 04-814-5300
Al Maha
In the serene Dubai dunes, you can find the luxurious Al Maha Resort and Spa. Part of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, the 5-star resort offers guests a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of the desert while enjoying top-notch amenities and services. With private villas, gourmet dining options, and exclusive desert activities, Al Maha Resort provides a truly unforgettable desert getaway experience.
Al Maha offers many activities for guests to enjoy, from pools and spas to desert rides and wildlife experiences. While it's luxurious, Al Maha still sticks to the country's roots, offering traditional activities like archery and falconry. Using traditional bows and arrows, as well as having professionals by your side, you can fully immerse yourself in the historic sport of archery.
Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Timings: From 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
Price: 950 AED (day package)
Contact: 04-832-9211
Sonara Desert Camp
Similar to Al Maha, Sonara is another desert camp part of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Sonara offers luxury accommodations and activities such as camel riding, falconry, desert safaris, and soft archery for guests to enjoy the beauty of the desert landscape.
The soft archery, which comes with the Sunset Experience, is a perfect way to enjoy the thrill of archery without any safety worries. Available for all ages, the archery experience at Sonara allows guests to try their hand at this ancient sport under the guidance of experienced instructors. The Sunset Experience also includes a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars, creating a truly unforgettable desert adventure.
Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Timings: From 3:00 PM to 10:30 PM
Price: From 480 AED (Sunset Experience)
Contact: 050-336-7909
Bab Al Shams
Bab Al Shams is one of the most popular desert resorts in the city, known for its blend of luxury and Arab traditions. The resort offers a range of activities such as camel rides, falconry shows, and traditional Arabic entertainment to immerse guests in the local culture.
Along with falconry and horseriding, Bab Al Shams also offers a top-tier archery experience for all visitors. By allowing guests to try their hand at this ancient sport under the guidance of skilled instructors, the resort t provides a unique and memorable desert experience that showcases the rich heritage of the region.
Location: Al Qudra
Timings: From 9:30 AM to 6:00 PM
Price: 175 AED
Contact: 04-809-6167
Mushrif Range
This archery range is among the many other activities available at Mushrif Park. The well-loved park has everything you need for a fun day out, from BBQ spots to adventure parks. Visitors can also explore the botanical gardens and take a leisurely stroll along the scenic walking trails.
The Mushrif range is perfect for both beginners and experts, with instructors who can help and guide you through the whole experience. So, if you're looking to let out some steam and let arrows fly amidst nature, then the Mushrif range is the place for you!
Location: Mushrif Park
Timings: From 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM
Price: 1000 AED (up to 6 people)
Contact: 052-527-3217