Hit the bull’s-eye! Learn archery in Dubai
Discover the ancient art of archery in Dubai! This traditional sport is a great way to improve your accuracy, physical strength and mental clarity. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced archer, there’s something for everyone.
HISTORY OF ARCHERY IN DUBAI
Archery in the UAE is more than just a sport; it’s a cultural immersion. This ancient practice, with roots tracing back to the Babylonians and Assyrians, has left its mark on the region’s history. Archaeological finds, like the trilobate arrowheads discovered in Umm Al Quwain, provide tangible evidence of its long-standing presence.
You can also find ancient arrowheads on display at the Fujairah Museum and the Sharjah Archaeological Museum. Beyond its historical significance, archery holds religious importance in Islam. These factors combine to make it a compelling choice for those seeking a unique and meaningful hobby in Dubai.
So, let’s get on with where to take archery classes in Dubai
BEST PLACES FOR ARCHERY IN DUBAI
Note: Most archery Dubai deals mentioned in this guide have not published the price or timings/days for archery lessons. It’s best to contact the club and enquire about archery Dubai prices and other details in advance.
JA HATTA FORT HOTEL
To start, archery is one of the best things to do in Hatta. Located 130km from central Dubai, Hatta is a natural retreat with rocky mountains and crystal clear waters. Also, it is one of the best places in the UAE to familiarise yourself with a bow and arrow.
You can find an archery range in the lawns of JA Hatta Fort Hotel. This Dubai archery range is equipped for both beginners and expert archers. Take in the views of the stunning Hajar mountains as you try this archery range in Dubai!
- Contact: +971-4-814-5500
JEBEL ALI SHOOTING CLUB
Interested in archery classes in Dubai? The Jebel Ali Shooting Club is a massive outdoor range that allows you to learn archery from a team of skilled and experienced trainers and assistants. Plus, you don’t have to be a member of the club to use the facilities at this archery club in Dubai.
While primarily a place for shooting enthusiasts, Jebel Ali Shooting Club provides an exciting opportunity for you to brush up your bow and arrow skills at the outdoor range. Along with professional coaching, you will also get to use advanced equipment. And all this takes place inside a fortress-like structure.
- Location: Gate No.7, Exit No.13, Near Jebel Ali Freezone
- Price: AED 80 (for members) | AED 110 (for non-members)
- Contact: +971-4-814-5300
AL MAHA DESERT RESORT
Located at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR), this resort invites you to a luxurious archery experience. Discover the timeless art of archery, deeply rooted in Middle Eastern and Bedouin heritage. Learn from expert instructors, explore archery’s rich history and techniques and master the traditional bow and arrow!
Moreover, Al Maha Resort allows you to experience the stunning desert landscape sustainably, making it one of the best ecotourism destinations in Dubai.
- Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
- Contact: +971-4-832-9900
SONARA DESERT CAMP
Moving on, Sonara Desert Camp is another eco-friendly destination in Dubai. In the heart of the Arabian Desert, Sonora offers a luxurious dining and camping experience and a range of activities, including soft archery.
This is a form of archery for people of all ages using safer equipment. It includes soft foam tip arrows with the same flight characteristics as a standard arrow. This allows you to shoot without safety nets.
- Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR), Al Ain Road, Margham Gate
- Timings: Monday and Tuesday, 05:30 pm to 07:00 pm
- Price: Depending on the season, AED 390 – AED 590 for adults
- Contact: +971-50-336-7909 | +971-50-336-0397
BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA
One of the popular desert resorts in Dubai, Bab Al Shams, helps you combine your love of archery with a luxurious vacation. A team of experts will offer watchful guidance and provide basic training and safety tips. This Dubai archery range is suitable for all skill levels. Each archery session lasts up to an hour, and the archery venue overlooks the dunes.
- Location: Opposite Endurance City, Al Qudra Road
- Timings: 09:30 am to 12:00 pm | 04:00 pm to 06:00 pm (latest booking is by 05:00 pm)
- Price: AED 175 per adult, AED 140 per child (prices are the same for visitors and guests)
- Contact: +971-4-809-6167
AL HABTOOR ARCHERY ZONE
Al Habtoor Archery Zone, expertly coached by Patric Halforty from ISM Sports, offers a welcoming environment for beginners and experienced archers to practice and refine their skills.
- Location: Al Habtoor Polo Resort, Wadi Al Safa 5, Emirates Road 611
- Timings: Saturday and Sunday, 08:00 am – 10:00 am
- Price: AED 225 per adult | AED 175 per child
- Contact: +971-58-134-0233
FAQS
WHAT IS THE AGE REQUIREMENT FOR LEARNING ARCHERY?
Archery requires a certain level of upper body strength. This is why many feel they cannot be good at the sport. However, archery schools and ranges in Dubai don’t have specific age limits. In fact, in the last couple of years, the country has seen a surge in interest in archery by school-going children. Likewise, no one is too old for archery as well.
HOW SAFE IS ARCHERY?
Safety rules apply when setting up targets in archery ranges. Under professional supervision, it is one of the safest sports out there. For further safety, one can consider using foam-tipped arrows.
WHAT IF I HAVE WEAK EYESIGHT?
Contrary to popular opinion, even people with weak eyesight can practice archery.
HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE TO LEARN ARCHERY?
It all depends on your natural ability and the kind of instruction you receive. You can also learn to shoot with a Recurve Bow in a day. When learning to hold the bow and draw the arrow, follow the proper technique for steadying your arms, especially when aiming.
Finally, remember that archery can be exhausting as it exerts pressure on your arms and upper body. Pace your lessons so that you don’t tire yourself.
This wraps up our guide on archery in Dubai. If you are interested in shooting, we have compiled a list of the best shooting ranges in Dubai.
You can also sign up for horse riding lessons in Dubai, another traditional activity in the UAE. And if you want to keep things competitive and fun, invite your friends to places for paintball in Dubai.
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