Every day is a good snow day in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

What? You didn't know that it's just a short step from the dunes to the slopes in one of the hottest spots in the world? (Neither did I.) But we're talking Ski Dubai, the breathtaking snow skiing complex in the Mall of the Emirates.

Skiers and riders need no equipment or winter clothing whatsoever. You just arrive at Ski Dubai, pay the entry fee, and staffers issue you clothing and boots. After changing and storing your own clothes in a locker where the electronic key also functions as your lift pass, you return to retrieve your skis, already adjusted to fit. Up an escalator, and you are at the entrance to the slope where you pick up your poles. (First Tracks Online)

Ski Dubai has 5 runs that vary in difficulty, height and steepness, the longest run being 400 meters with a fall of over 60 meters. Test your skills on the world's first indoor black run or practice your turns on the gentle beginner slopes. Skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels will enjoy these various slopes and snowboarders can also practice their stunts on the 90-metre long quarter pipe. Kids and parents alike will have fun in the huge interactive Snow Park, which at 3000 square meters is the largest indoor snow park in the world. (Ski Dubai)

So if you just happen to be in Dubai and just happen to get bored at the beach, you have an Arab alpine alternative.