The United Arab Emirates Is Planning an Indoor Snow Park

The United Arab Emirates will soon have sand dunes, sun, and a lot of snow.

In 2005, the tiny Arab nation opened up an indoor ski resort adjoining the Mall of the Emirates in Dubai, replete with a black diamond run, penguin shows, and an ice cave. Now, the Associated Press reports that Abu Dhabi’s soon-to-be-built Reem Mall plans to construct a 125,000-square-foot snow park inside the establishment.

Visitors will be able to partake in sledding, luging, and zorbing (a recreational activity in which individuals roll down a hill while encased inside a see-through plastic ball). The mall, which is expected to cost $1 billion, is slated to open in 2018.

The National reports that the mall is expected to offer 450 stores. But no matter how good the shopping is, some patrons will be most likely drawn in by the prospect of escaping the heat and making some snow angels. 

[h/t Associated Press]