Up your game with these team building activities in a fun environment
Next time you’re nodding off during a pep talk from your boss, remember it doesn’t have to be like this
That’s because companies across Abu Dhabi are venturing outside of the office to boost morale and give staff a breather from the corporate routine.
Outdoor team building activities help develop camaraderie among employees and instill productivity and communication – key ingredients to achieving company goals.
The capital now offers a host of fun bonding activities for corporate groups, school kids and birthday parties. The question is, which one do you dare to try?
Another string to your bow
Archery tag is sure to hit the mark. Launched in December 2014 at the Volvo Ocean Race, Archery Tag Abu Dhabi encourages participants to shoot foam-tipped arrows from bows at an opposing team. To avoid being shot, you must run for cover behind inflatable bunker shields.
Alex Stanley, an entrepreneur from Ireland, formed a partnership with the outdoor adventure company Noukhada Adventure to bring the concept to the UAE.
Alex explains, “Three years ago, in Ireland, Google asked me to host an indoor archery event for them. I loved the idea so I searched online for arrows with soft tips so they can be shot indoors.”
Archery tag is akin to dodge ball or laser tag, so players are divided into two teams. To win, they must knock out the centres of a target positioned on the opponent’s side of the field. The players can also aim at opponents to take them out of the game.
The game can be played indoors and outdoors, and youths and adults can participate. Unlike paintball, a shot leaves no mess and the arrows don’t hurt when you’re hit. No special uniform is required, and players only need to put on safety helmets.
The combat nature of the game requires team members to plot a strategy to increase their chances of winning. For Alex, archery tag carries all the essential tools needed for a successful team building endeavour.
He adds, “Players must communicate to achieve their goal, so there’s an element of team work. Individuals must learn how to think fast on their feet and play according to their strengths and weaknesses.
“Generally, people go through a series of emotions when they play: fear of the unknown, fear of not knowing what they are doing, fear of being hit, then a feeling of confidence that they’re doing something outside of their comfort zone. They feel all of these emotions while in a fun, safe environment.”
From AED 2,500 an hour per 20 people. Contact: 02 558 1889 [email protected]
Turtle power
Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi on Saadiyat Beach offers eco-friendly activities.
Its turtle survivor challenge is ideal for groups of 20 to 50. The hotel’s marine biologist guides the two-hour activity, which requires teams to undertake challenges that mimic turtles in the wild. So expect to crawl under fishing nets, run past empty plastic bottles and hunt for coloured eggs. Teams must race to complete the course in the fastest time while absorbing information about turtle biology and conservation.
Alternatively, opt for the wildlife talk, quiz and scavenger hunt. The marine biologist talks about local wildlife, such as which marine creatures are unique to the region, then quizzes each team. This is followed by a hunt along Saadiyat Beach. This activity is ideal for groups of 10 to 20 people.
Both activities donate 20 per cent of revenues to the Marine Turtle Conservation Project, an endeavour launched by the Emirates Wildlife Society, World Wildlife Fund and Marine Research Foundation to promote the conservation of turtles.
From AED 250 per person for three hours. Contact: 02 407 1234 [email protected]
Survival of the fittest
Always wanted to star on the hit reality TV show Survivor? Now’s your chance. Xventures, which runs outdoor recreational activities, offers an island package for groups of up to 50.
Tony Hajj, Xventures’ owner, says, “We will send you to an island and give your team equipment for volleyball, tug of war, treasure hunts, banana boat rides and team building workshops.”
The participants must plan a day’s itinerary with activities that can be divided between a group – so some might cook while others organise games. There is also downtime for those wanting to unwind.
Tony adds, “Being on an island gives this package a holiday feel, especially as you’re not wearing suits – it makes you feel relaxed.”
From AED 4,000 for 30 people. Contact: 055 5404 500 www.x-ventures.ae
Shoot to thrill
For those who prefer more action, Al Forsan International Sports Resort fits the bill.
The same size as Abu Dhabi Golf Club, the 162ha resort has a shooting range where you and your team can fire handguns and rifles, whether you’re experienced or a beginner. The ranges feature different obstacles to test the skills and accuracy of the shooters.
Alternatively, why not try paintballing? Teams and individual players can take part in scenarios such as rescuing a hostage from the rival team, diffusing a suitcase bomb or protecting a saloon against bandits.
Air-conditioned domes ensure comfort even in warm weather.
Shooting from AED 175, paintball from AED 120 per person. Contact: 02 556 8555 www.alforsan.com
Ferdinand Godinez
