Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
Here's some answers to your most frequently
asked questions:
Who
are Balloon Adventures Dubai?
Balloon Adventures Dubai LLC is a local company,
owned and operated by Mr Abdullah Alashram,
Mr Peter Kollar and Captain Chris Johnson.
Between Messrs Kollar and Johnson they have
50 years experience in the aviation industry
and operate two other balloon flight operations,
one in Germany and the other in New Zealand.
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Why
should I fly in Dubai?
The Dubai desert is a truly unique landscape.
Flying above it in a hot air balloon gives
you the opportunity to view this as very few
people have done before.
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What
is included?
We will pick you up from any major hotel in
Dubai (or meet you at our central meeting
point), provide transfers to and from the
desert flight area in our new airconditioned
Toyota Landcruisers, an approximate one hour
balloon flight, light refreshments following
your flight, a personalized flight certificate
signed by your pilot, a four wheel drive experience
from the landing site to the main road and
then return you to your hotel or meeting point.
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Why
do we have to start so early?
The best time to fly balloons is in the cool
dawn air when the winds are light. It is also
the most beautiful time of day in the desert.
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What
should I wear?
It is warm in the balloon and the desert so
you should dress as if you were going for
a walk outside in the city. We suggest that
you wear trainers or similar, and not high
heels. Bring a hat or cap and sunglasses.
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Can
I bring my camera?
Yes, however the desert can be a dusty place
so you should be very careful to prevent dust
getting in your camera… particularly if it
is a digital model.
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How
long does it take?
We fly over the desert for approximately one
hour. You should allow up to five hours from
when we meet you until we return you to the
same point.
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If
I am afraid of heights is this OK for me?
Many people who are afraid of heights come
on our balloon flights. The feeling of flying
in a balloon is very gentle and different
from looking off a high bridge or building,
or climbing a ladder. You should have no problem,
however if you are really concerned please
advise your pilot and he will take special
care of you.
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Is
there an age limit?
The minimum age is five. There is no upper age
limit. We have regularly flown people in their
80’s and 90’s. The oldest to fly with us has
been 102.
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How
fit do I have to be?
Ballooning is a soft “adventure” so it does
not require a high level of fitness. You should
be able to stand unaided and climb into the
basket. If you have a serious medical condition
or perhaps have recently had a hip replacement
we advise you to check with your doctor for
you own peace of mind
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Is
it safe?
Statistically ballooning is the safest form
of flying. Certainly much safer than driving
in a motor car! Our balloons are inspected
and certified in the same way as an airliner
and undergo various inspections every four
months, every year and every 100 hours. This
is required by law. Our engineer is qualified
in the factory of the balloon manufacturer
in England.
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Who
are the pilots?
All our pilots are internationally qualified
commercial pilots and amongst the most experienced
in the world. All are full time professionals.
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Is
the company licenced?
Yes. Balloon Adventures Dubai was the first
balloon company to qualify for an Air Operators
Certificate (the same as an airline) with
the GCAA. This is a rigorous process that
took almost one year to complete. The company
is incorporated in Dubai and holds a local
commercial trade licence number 71261.
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Do
you have insurance?
Yes. Public liability is a requirement to
qualify for and hold an Air Operators Certificate
in the U.A.E.
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How
much does it cost?
USD 220 per person. This is well priced when
compared to flying in other places such as
Africa, Australia or the United Kingdom.
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