Balloon Adventures flies into Abu Dhabi

One of the world’s most experienced hot-air balloon companies has begun operations in Abu Dhabi, offering expeditions over the heart of the emirate’s pristine desert.

Balloon Adventures Emirates, which also operates in Germany, New Zealand and Hungary, says its ‘magic carpet ride’ expeditions gives passengers a unique view of a landscape which includes the huge red sand dunes and the emerald green oases of Al Ain, the emirate’s second city and heritage capital. Passengers also have the chance to spot Arabian gazelles and wandering camels in their natural habitat.

Beginning at around 5.30am from various pick-up points around Abu Dhabi city, the flights launch from an area just north of Al Ain - around an hour’s drive from the UAE capital.

“Rising early for a sunrise flight is a minor inconvenience when compared to the breathtaking views and incredible desertscapes to be seen,” says Peter Kollar, director of Balloon Adventures Emirates. “It is also the best time for flying, as the cool and serene ambience adds to the experience.”

The expeditions are fully approved by Abu Dhabi’s General Civil Aviation Authority and GHQ. Balloons Adventures Emirates operates a fleet of six balloons in the country. In addition to its regular itinerary, which lasts around five hours, the company offers exclusive balloon charter and four-wheel drive transfers. The hot-air balloon service will operate from the end of September to the end of May.

Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), which manages, helps develop and promote the emirate’s tourism industry, has welcomed the company’s arrival.

“This is another exciting addition to Abu Dhabi’s steadily expanding tourism offering and is a great fit with our target visitor profile,” says Ahmed Hussein, ADTA’s deputy director general. “We seek to attract people who wish to engage with the emirate and its people, and get close to it, and this offering fulfils this criteria.”

For more information visit ballooning.ae.