iFly Dubai Indoor Skydiving: Guide to Safe Human Flight

iFly Dubai

Experience the thrill of freefall without jumping from a plane. iFly Dubai is the region’s first indoor skydiving facility, making controlled flight a reality for anyone aged three and above.

iFly Dubai is located inside City Centre Mirdif and features the world’s first double vertical wind tunnel. Two 800-horsepower fans generate powerful air currents that lift you up to 4 meters (13 feet) into the air.

This guide covers everything you need to know about booking tickets, preparing for your flight, and understanding the strict safety and health requirements. Whether you are a first-time flyer or an experienced skydiver looking to hone your technique, this resource will help you plan the perfect gravity-defying adventure in Dubai.

What is iFly Dubai? The Science of Indoor Skydiving

iFly Dubai offers an unparalleled indoor skydiving experience, allowing you to feel the thrill of freefall in a safe and supervised environment. The facility uses a state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnel that creates a powerful, controlled airflow, enabling you to experience the sensation of skydiving without actually jumping from an airplane.

The technology behind iFly is both impressive and straightforward. The wind tunnel is a 10-meter (32-foot) tall acrylic glass chamber. At its base, two gigantic fans produce winds of up to 200 kilometers per hour (124 miles per hour). These 800-horsepower fans generate a strong, smooth column of air beneath you. Once you enter the tunnel, this column lifts you off the ground, allowing you to float, spin, and fly.

Unlike outdoor skydiving, you remain at a safe distance from the fans at all times, and a certified instructor is right there with you, holding you and guiding your movements. The facility is fully air-conditioned, so you can enjoy this activity all year round, even during Dubai’s hottest summer months.

Location and How to Get There

iFly Dubai is conveniently located on the third floor of City Centre Mirdif, inside the Play Nation entertainment area.

  • Full Address: Third Floor, Play Nation Area, City Centre Mirdif, Ghoroob, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Mirdif, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
  • By Car: City Centre Mirdif is easily accessible via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). There is ample free parking at the mall.
  • By Taxi or Ride-Hailing: Most taxi drivers in Dubai will be familiar with iFly Dubai and City Centre Mirdif. Simply tell them the name of the attraction or the mall.
  • By Public Transport: The nearest metro station is Rashidiya Station on the Red Line. From there, you can take a short taxi ride (a few minutes) to the mall. Alternatively, you can take one of the public buses (#367, #F10, #F60) that stop at Mirdiff City Centre 2, from which it is about an 8-minute walk.

Safety, Health Requirements, and Medical Restrictions

Safety is the number one priority at iFly Dubai. Before your flight, you must attend a mandatory training session with your instructor.

Pre-Flight Training and Waiver

  • All participants, regardless of experience level, must complete a safety briefing.
  • The short session covers the correct flying posture, hand signals used by the instructor, and what to expect inside the tunnel.
  • You will also be asked to sign a liability waiver form, which can be done online in advance or upon arrival.
  • It is recommended to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled flight time to complete this process.

Medical Restrictions and Exclusions

Flying in a wind tunnel puts specific physical stresses on the body. To ensure everyone’s safety, iFly Dubai enforces the following restrictions:

  • Pregnancy: Expectant mothers are not allowed to participate. This is a strict, non-negotiable safety rule.
  • Shoulder Dislocations: Anyone with a history of shoulder dislocations is advised against flying. The wind currents can put unexpected stress on the joints.
  • Back and Neck Injuries: The activity is not recommended for guests with prior back or neck problems, as the flight position requires arching the back.
  • Heart Conditions: The experience is not recommended for guests with heart problems or other serious medical conditions.
  • Casts and Injuries: You cannot fly if you are wearing a plaster cast or have recently had surgery.
  • Under the Influence: Participants under the influence of alcohol or non-prescribed drugs are strictly prohibited from flying.

Age and Weight Restrictions

There are specific age and weight guidelines you must meet to fly.

  • Minimum Age: 3 years old. Younger flyers must be able to comfortably wear one of the helmets.
  • Under 18: Must be accompanied by a parent or guardian, or bring a signed waiver form.
  • Weight Limit (Height below 180cm): Maximum 105kg (232 pounds).
  • Weight Limit (Height above 180cm): Maximum 115kg (254 pounds).

Ticket Prices, Packages, and Opening Hours in 2026

Pricing for iFly Dubai depends on the package you choose. Below are the standard rates and packages for 2026.

Standard Pricing and Packages

  • Standard Package: Training session, flight gear, 2 x 1-minute flights, one-on-one instructor assistance, commemorative certificate – approximately AED 199 to 220.
  • Family & Group Deals: Shared flight time for up to 5 participants, discounted rate per person – prices vary; contact the venue.
  • Advanced / Extended Package: Training, 2 x 2-minute flights for technique development – approximately AED 250 to 350.
  • Virtual Reality Experience: Training, 2 flights, plus a VR headset for a simulated flyover of Dubai landmarks – approximately AED 280 to 400.
  • Single Top-Up Flight: Add 1 minute of flight time to your session (available on-site) – approximately AED 50.

Please Note: All prices are approximate and subject to change. Online booking often provides the best rates. These packages are valid for 2026.

Operational Hours (2026)

  • Sunday – Wednesday: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM
  • Thursday: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM
  • Friday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
  • Saturday: 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM

Flights typically start on the hour, with the last session beginning one hour before closing. It is highly recommended to check the official iFly Dubai website for the most up-to-date schedules and any changes during public holidays.

The Flight Experience: Step-by-Step Breakdown

The entire experience from check-in to exit takes about 60 to 90 minutes, which includes your pre-flight training and the flight itself.

  1. Check-in and Registration (30 Minutes Before Flight)
    • Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled flight.
    • Check in at the counter and complete the waiver form (if not done online).
    • Receive your briefing session time.
  2. Gear Up
    • You will be provided with a flight suit (wind-suit) to wear over your clothes.
    • Put on a full-face helmet, safety goggles, and earplugs.
    • You keep your own shoes on; lace-up trainers or sneakers are required.
  3. Pre-Flight Training
    • Your certified instructor will lead a short training session (approximately 10-15 minutes).
    • You learn the correct body position: chin up, back arched, legs straight.
    • You learn basic hand signals the instructor uses inside the loud wind tunnel.
  4. The Flight
    • You enter the vertical wind tunnel with your instructor.
    • The 800-horsepower fans power on, creating a smooth column of air.
    • The instructor holds onto you, helping you maintain balance and guiding you as you float.
    • A basic package includes two flights, each lasting about one minute (equivalent freefall time of a skydive from 12,000 feet).
  5. Post-Flight & Souvenirs
    • After your flight, collect your commemorative certificate.
    • You can purchase professional photos and videos of your flight taken by staff from outside the tunnel.

What to Wear and How to Prepare?

Proper preparation makes the experience more comfortable and enjoyable.

Essential Packing Checklist

  • Clothing: Wear comfortable, casual clothes. A t-shirt or long-sleeved top and long pants (jeans or sweatpants) are ideal. Avoid long, baggy clothes or skirts.
  • Footwear: Wear lace-up trainers or sneakers. Your shoes must be tightly laced. Open-toed shoes, sandals, and boots are not permitted.
  • Loose Items: Remove all jewelry, watches, and loose change from your pockets. Secure lockers are provided free of charge.
  • Health: Eat lightly before your session. Flying on a very full stomach can be uncomfortable.
  • Glasses/Contacts: You will be provided with a full-face helmet that seals around the goggles. It is safe to wear contact lenses or glasses under the helmet.

iFly Dubai vs. Tandem Skydiving and Inflight Dubai

Dubai is famous for its outdoor skydiving, but iFly offers a unique alternative.

  • iFly Dubai: Controlled freefall simulation in a vertical wind tunnel. Two 1-minute flights (approx 2 mins of freefall). Cost ~AED 199-350. Children aged 3+ can fly. Fully indoors, year-round.
  • Tandem Skydive (Outdoor): Real freefall from 12,000+ feet above Palm Jumeirah. 20-min flight up + 60 secs freefall + 5-min canopy ride. Cost ~AED 1,500-2,200. Minimum age 18; stricter health limits. Weather-dependent.
  • iFly Dubai vs. Inflight Dubai: Inflight Dubai is located in The Dubai Mall (minimum age 6). iFly Dubai in City Centre Mirdif is the original and world’s first double vertical wind tunnel (minimum age 3). Both offer a similar core experience.

Visitor Tips for the Best Experience

Maximize your fun and minimize any issues with these insider tips.

  • Book in Advance: Online booking is strongly recommended, especially for weekends and peak tourist seasons (October to April).
  • Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your flight to handle waivers, suit up, and attend training without rushing.
  • Use Free Lockers: There are free lockers available to store your phone, wallet, and other valuables while you fly.
  • Don’t Forget Your ID: You will need to present your booking confirmation. If you pre-signed the waiver, an ID may be requested.
  • Ask for Tips: The instructors are certified professionals. If you are struggling to maintain your position, ask them for advice.
  • Purchase Media: The staff take professional photos and videos of your flight. These make fantastic souvenirs and are well worth the extra cost.

 

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