Bahrain: Bahrain’s first-ever indoor skydiving centre is set to open its doors for National Day.

Gravity Indoor Skydiving, at Al Wasmiya near Bahrain International Circuit in Sakhir, boasts one of the world’s tallest vertical wind tunnels at 12 metres high by 4.3 metres wide, where windspeeds can reach up to 290kmph.

It recreates the experience of hurling yourself out of an aircraft, without the need for actually boarding a plane.

Prices range from BD19.500 for a two-minute “bodyflight” for one up to BD300 for the “Boogie Time” package that offers two one-minute flights for up to 15 people.

The centre also offers training for dedicated indoor skydiving enthusiasts, who can progress through several “bodyflight levels” to take advantage of special “pro flyer” rates.

Vertical wind tunnels have become a popular training tool for skydivers, as they produce a similar sensation through the force of wind being generated.

The first human to fly in a vertical wind tunnel was Jack Tiffany in 1964 at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio, US – but it was not until 1982 that a tunnel built solely for commercial use opened in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Indoor skydiving appeals to a wider audience than its traditional counterpart, as it only involves the “flyer” floating a few feet above trampoline-type netting.

Those taking part are able to practice a skill known as “bodyflight”, which includes rolls, turns, lateral movement, fall rate control and other acrobatics.

An organisation know as the International Bodyflight Association was founded in 2003 to promote the sport of indoor skydiving while providing safety standards for flight instructors and enthusiasts through education and training.

Gravity Indoor Skydiving, from Bahrain-based Samhaan Holding Company, will be officially unveiled at a media event on Saturday.

It is expected to open its doors to the public on December 16, with no booking required for the first three days.

Opening hours are advertised as 10am to 11pm.