My Slacklife Journey: From Spain to Dubai - A Life-Changing Adventure

By Carlos Merayo | December 7, 2025

Fifteen years ago, I discovered slackline. What started as curiosity became a life-changing journey that took me around the world and connected me with incredible people who share the same passion.

From Beginner to Champion

From the moment I stepped on the line for the first time, I knew this was more than just a sport—it was a way of life. I dedicated myself to mastering this art, representing Spain in competitions worldwide. I've been honored to become Spanish and European Champion multiple times, competing at the highest level in Red Bull competitions and World Championships. Each competition taught me discipline, focus, and the power of perseverance.

One of the most important parts of my journey has been the sponsorship from Gibbon Slackline, the world's number one slackline company from Stuttgart, Germany. Thanks to them and their constant support throughout all these years, I've been able to reach this far. Their trust in me and their exceptional equipment have been fundamental in my development as an athlete and artist.

The Leap of Faith

But let me tell you something that not everyone knows—something that changed everything. Years ago, I made one of the most difficult decisions of my life: I blindly left my job to give everything for slackline, without knowing where it would take me. I left behind the security, the stability, the "normal" path that everyone expected me to follow.

It wasn't easy. It was terrifying, actually. But I trusted in my passion, in my dedication, and in the belief that if you truly commit to something you love, the path will reveal itself. And it did—in ways I could never have imagined.

Leaving Everything Behind

Then came the biggest decision of all. Nine years ago, when the opportunity to work at La Perle by Dragone in Dubai appeared, I faced another crossroads. To come to Dubai, I had to leave my entire life in Spain—my family, my friends, everything I had known and loved. It's not easy to leave it all behind just like that. The comfort of home, the warmth of family dinners, the laughter with lifelong friends—all of it stayed behind as I boarded that plane to the unknown.

People asked me: "Are you sure? Why would you leave everything?" But something inside me knew this was my path. This was my chance to turn my passion into something greater, to push my limits, to see how far slackline could take me. It was a new adventure—scary, exciting, and completely uncertain.

The Artist Within

In Dubai, I had the incredible opportunity to be part of the show's creation alongside Franco Dragone himself, where I designed and developed the slackline act. Performing over 3,500 shows has been an extraordinary honor. After this amazing experience, I launched my project Slackline Dubai, which is now known as Slackline UAE.

Looking back now, I can say that every sacrifice was worth it. Every moment of doubt, every night missing home, every challenge I faced—it all led me here. To this moment. To this community. To this life I've built doing what I love most. Every performance and every student reminds me why I fell in love with slackline, and why I took that leap of faith all those years ago.

My Mission: Sharing the Slacklife

My goal with Slackline UAE is simple yet profound: to share my experience and knowledge with everyone in the UAE. I want people to feel the same joy, freedom, and presence that slackline brings. When you step on the line, time stops. You disconnect from everything and live purely in the present moment. It's meditation in motion, a dance with gravity, and a conversation with yourself.

The Benefits of Slackline Training

Physical Benefits:

• Enhanced Balance & Coordination - Trains your entire stabilization system
• Core Strength - Activates deep core muscles with every step
• Improved Posture - Teaches proper body alignment naturally
• Injury Prevention - Strengthens ankles, knees, and proprioception
• Full-Body Workout - Engages muscles you didn't know existed

Mental Benefits:

• Mindfulness & Presence - Forces you to focus on the now
• Stress Relief - Pure disconnection from daily worries
• Confidence Building - Every step forward is a victory
• Mental Resilience - Teaches you to embrace failure and try again
• Flow State - Experience the joy of being completely immersed

Building a Community

I dream of seeing the UAE slackline community grow. I want to organize local competitions and, who knows, maybe one day international events here in Dubai. This isn't just about sport—it's about creating a movement, a family of people who understand that balance is more than physical—it's a way of life.

My Legacy

I want my legacy to continue in the next generations. I want to pass on the Slacklife to the people of UAE—the philosophy that falling is part of the process, that getting back up is what defines us, and that every moment on the line is a gift.

Whether you're 5 or 75, a complete beginner or an athlete, slackline welcomes you. Come experience the joy, the challenge, and the incredible feeling of living in the present moment.

Join me. Let's walk the line together.

Waterline Magic in Jumeirah: When Friends Visit Dubai

By Carlos Merayo | December 19, 2025

There's something truly special about sharing your passion with friends who travel from abroad to experience it with you. This week, we had the privilege of hosting slackline enthusiasts visiting Dubai, and we knew exactly where to take them—the stunning Jumeirah Marina for an epic waterline session.

The Perfect Waterline Spot

Jumeirah Marina offers everything you could dream of for waterline slacklining: calm, clear waters reflecting the golden Dubai sunset, a picturesque backdrop of traditional boats and modern architecture, and that perfect mix of challenge and beauty that makes every moment on the line unforgettable.

As the sun began its descent, painting the sky in shades of amber and gold, we rigged our lines between the dock posts. The setup itself is always an art—calculating tension, ensuring safety, and preparing for the unique challenge that waterline brings: the psychological factor of knowing that every fall means a refreshing splash into the sea.

The Waterline Experience

Waterline slacklining is unlike anything else in the sport. The constant movement of the water below creates an ever-shifting visual reference that challenges even experienced slackliners. Your balance system works overtime as your mind tries to find stability while the water ripples and reflects beneath you.

For our visiting friends, stepping onto the line for the first time over water was both exhilarating and intimidating. But that's the beauty of slackline—it teaches you to embrace the fall, to laugh at yourself when you splash into the water, and to get back up and try again. And again. And again.

Sunset Sessions & Backflips

As the afternoon turned to evening, the magic really began. The silhouettes against the golden sky, the reflections dancing on the water, and that perfect Dubai weather created an atmosphere that can only be described as pure slacklife.

We progressed from simple walking to dynamic tricks. Backflips over water have a special thrill—the commitment is absolute, and the landing (whether on the line or in the water) is always spectacular. Each successful trick was celebrated with cheers that echoed across the marina.

The Community Spirit

What made this day truly special wasn't just the perfect conditions or the stunning location—it was the people. Watching friends from different countries come together, united by their love for slackline, reminded me why I started Slackline UAE in the first place.

Between sets on the line, we shared stories, techniques, and that special camaraderie that only comes from pursuing something challenging together. Some falls were graceful, others less so, but every single one was followed by laughter and encouragement to try again.

Why Waterline?

You might wonder what makes waterline slacklining so special. Here's what I've learned over the years:

• Mental Challenge - The fear of falling into water (even though it's safe) adds a psychological dimension that sharpens your focus
• Visual Beauty - The reflections, the sunset, the movement of water create an ever-changing canvas beneath you
• Freedom to Fall - Unlike highlines, falling into water is safe and refreshing, allowing you to push your limits
• Natural Cooling - In Dubai's climate, having the option to cool off with every attempt is a blessing
• Spectacular Photography - The silhouettes, reflections, and golden hour lighting create unforgettable images

The Dubai Advantage

Dubai offers unique opportunities for waterline slacklining. From the calm waters of Jumeirah Marina to the stunning backdrop of the city skyline, from year-round sunshine to world-class infrastructure—it's a slackliner's paradise.

When friends visit from colder climates, they're amazed that we can train outdoors every single day, that the water is warm and inviting, and that we have access to such incredible locations. It's moments like these that remind me how fortunate we are to call Dubai home.

The Magic Hour

As the sun finally dipped below the horizon and the sky turned from gold to purple to deep blue, we packed up our lines with tired muscles and huge smiles. The evening air was filled with the satisfaction of a day well spent, of challenges met, of friendships strengthened.

We ended the session soaking wet, arms tired from countless attempts, and absolutely buzzing with the joy that only a perfect waterline day can bring. This is what slacklife is all about—pushing boundaries, sharing experiences, and finding balance not just on the line, but in life itself.

Join the Waterline Community

Whether you're visiting Dubai or you're a resident looking for something extraordinary to try, waterline slacklining offers an experience unlike anything else. It's challenging, it's beautiful, it's refreshing, and it's absolutely addictive.

At Slackline UAE, we regularly organize waterline sessions for all skill levels. Yes, you'll fall. Yes, you'll get wet. But I promise you'll also laugh, you'll improve, and you'll leave with memories and photos that will last a lifetime.

Ready to experience waterline magic? Contact us and let's make it happen!

First Steps at Safa Park: Finding Balance Under the Dubai Sky

By Carlos Merayo | December 26, 2025

The golden hour at Safa Park transforms everything it touches into magic. The palm trees cast long shadows across the grass, the sky glows with shades of pink and orange, and there's a peaceful energy in the air that makes this one of Dubai's most special places. It's the perfect setting for something extraordinary: your first steps on a slackline.

The Beginning of Something Beautiful

Every slackliner remembers their first time on the line. The uncertainty, the wobbling, the moment you realize that what looked so simple is actually a profound challenge. But that's exactly what makes it so rewarding.

This evening at Safa Park, I had the privilege of guiding two amazing individuals through their very first slackline experience. One wearing a crisp white top and black leggings, radiating confidence and determination. The other in a brown crop top and blue leggings, bringing infectious energy and fearless spirit. Both of them stepped onto that line with open hearts and minds ready to learn.

The First Step: Trust and Courage

There's a special moment that happens when someone takes their first step on a slackline. It's not just about balance—it's about trust. Trust in yourself, trust in your body, trust in the process. As I extended my hand to guide them, I could see that beautiful mix of excitement and nervousness that every beginner feels.

"Keep your eyes forward," I reminded them. "Don't look at your feet. Trust your body—it knows what to do." These simple words have guided thousands of students, but each time feels like the first time.

Finding Your Center

What makes slacklining so powerful is how quickly you can feel progress. Within minutes, arms that were flailing start to find stillness. Legs that were shaking begin to stabilize. The mind that was racing with "I can't do this" transforms into "I'm actually doing this!"

Watching both students progress through that evening session was pure joy. From holding my hand with a tight grip to gradually letting go. From taking one tentative step to walking three, four, five steps independently. Each small victory celebrated with genuine excitement and laughter that echoed across the park.

The Magic of Guided Learning

This is what I love most about teaching slackline—being there for those breakthrough moments. My role isn't to hold you up forever; it's to give you just enough support so you can discover your own strength. Sometimes that means literally holding your hand as you find your footing. Other times it means stepping back and letting you wobble, knowing that the wobble is part of the learning.

"You've got this!" I encouraged as one student took their longest walk yet, arms perfectly extended, core engaged, eyes locked on the horizon. The concentration on their face was absolute, but underneath it, I could see the joy building.

More Than Just Balance

What you learn on the slackline goes far beyond the line itself. You learn that falling is okay—in fact, it's necessary. You learn that progress isn't linear; some moments you'll feel like a pro, others you'll feel like you're starting over. You learn patience, persistence, and the power of mindfulness.

But perhaps most importantly, you learn that you're capable of more than you think. That line that looked impossible to walk when you arrived? By the end of the session, you're not just walking it—you're owning it.

The Safa Park Experience

There's something special about learning slackline at Safa Park. The soft grass is forgiving when you step off. The palm trees provide natural shade and create a peaceful atmosphere. The open space means there's room to set lines of different lengths and heights, perfect for progression.

As the sun sets and the temperature cools, the park fills with families, joggers, and fitness enthusiasts. They stop to watch, intrigued by this unique sport. Some ask questions. Others take photos. Many say, "I want to try that!"

This is how communities grow—one curious person at a time, one first step at a time, one magical evening at a time.

Your Journey Awaits

If you've been thinking about trying slackline, this is your sign. Whether you're an athlete looking for a new challenge, someone seeking mindfulness through movement, or just curious about that line stretched between two trees, there's a place for you in our community.

The students from this evening arrived as complete beginners. They left as slackliners, armed with new skills, increased confidence, and that unmistakable glow that comes from conquering something you never thought you could do.

Join the Slackline UAE Community

We run regular sessions at Safa Park and other locations across Dubai. Our approach is simple: patient guidance, positive energy, and a commitment to helping you succeed. Whether you're 8 or 80, athletic or just starting your fitness journey, we'll meet you where you are and help you progress at your pace.

Every expert slackliner was once a beginner taking their first wobbly steps. The only difference between them and those still watching from the sidelines? They decided to start.

Ready to find your balance? Book your first session with Slackline UAE and experience the magic of your first steps on the line.