Dubai is a city that has sprouted out of the sand to become an uber-modern skyscraper city with luxurious resorts and incredible attractions. You might also be surprised to find lots of beaches in Dubai. What was a desert not so long ago is now a global hub for business and leisure, attracting millions of visitors. Most of the infrastructure, including the roads, attractions, hotels and airports, is fully geared to accommodate the massive inflow of visitors.
The ideal months to visit this desert oasis is October to April if you’re visiting for leisure. But Dubai is also a business destination and its proximity to South Asia and Europe keeps visitor numbers high even during summer. Dubai has something for everyone, whether you’re a business traveller, honeymooner, solo traveller or family. It has many attractions, activities and experiences, including Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab and Dubai Mall.
Dubai also has world-class theme parks, such as Dubai Parks and Resorts, offering attractions like Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai. Shopping is a big draw, with many malls and traditional markets selling everything from luxury fashion to spices. You can also enjoy desert activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and safaris in the Arabian desert. Overall, Dubai’s tourism industry caters to various interests, whether you seek culture, adventure, or relaxation.
Although it’s an unlikely beach destination, you’ll be pleasantly surprised as there are a variety of beaches in Dubai (both public and private), offering different experiences. Dubai’s beaches are well-maintained, with soft sand and clear water, and what’s most remarkable is the sight of the skyline. From lively beaches with lots of activities to secluded beaches to relax, it’s not difficult to find one to suit you, even though most beaches do not allow swimming after sunset.
Contents
- Dubai Beaches
- Tips When Visiting Dubai’s Beaches
- 20 Beaches In Dubai
- 1- Kite Beach
- 2- JBR Beach
- 3- Umm Suqeim Night Swimming Beach
- 4- Black Palace Beach (Secret Beach or Sufouh Beach)
- 5- La Mer Beach
- 6- Jumeirah Public Beach (Sunset Beach)
- 7- Mercato Beach
- 8- Sunset Beach
- 9- Al Mamzar Beach Park
- 10- Jebel Ali Public Beach
- 11- Palm West Beach (Palm Jumeirah)
- 12- Barasti Beach
- 13- Cove Beach Caesars Palace
- 14- Zero Gravity Beach Club
- 15- White Beach (Palm Jumeirah)
- Beaches Near Dubai
Dubai Beaches
Top Tours
- Dubai Marina: Yacht Tour with Breakfast or BBQ – cruise along the waterways of Dubai.
- Atlantis Aquaventure & Lost Chambers Aquarium Ticket – most popular activity on The Palm.
- Desert Safari, Quad Bike, Camel Ride & Al Khayma Camp – fun on the sand.
Tips When Visiting Dubai’s Beaches
Dubai is known for its iconic artificial islands like the Palm Jumeirah and the World Islands, home to several stunning beaches. While many Dubai beaches are privately owned and require an entry fee to access them, there are many public beaches in Dubai as well. Keep in mind that Dubai has strict rules to follow regarding beach etiquette and beach wear. Here are some tips:
Dress code: Swimwear is allowed on beaches, but dress modestly. Nudity and topless sunbathing are strictly prohibited, so don’t walk or lie on the beach naked, as it is forbidden to be without clothes in public areas. Also, don’t walk in places outside the beach like malls, wearing swimwear.
Alcohol: You cannot bring or consume alcohol on public beaches in Dubai. Drinking in public is illegal in Dubai and can result in fines or imprisonment. You can, however, go to a nearby pub or a restaurant to drink.
Smoking: Smoking is also prohibited on public beaches in Dubai, especially family beaches.
Swimming: Don’t swim in the sea after sunset unless the beach is designated as a night beach.
Beach behaviour: It’s considered offensive to take pictures of other people on the beach (especially women). Public displays of affection (like kissing and hugging), loud music and partying on public beaches are also considered offensive.
Beach facilities: Most of Dubai’s public beaches are well-equipped with showers, toilets, and changing rooms. Littering is not allowed.
Water sports: If you want to engage in water sports, choose a licensed operator at designated beaches.
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20 Beaches In Dubai
1- Kite Beach
One of Dubai’s best-known beaches, Kite Beach, is in the Umm Suqeim area.
Considered one of the best beaches in Dubai, Kite Beach offers visitors everything from water sports activities and quirky food trucks to sun lounges and pristine sand.
It’s suitable for those who love kitesurfing, paddle boarding and kayaking.
The beach also has a running track, a skate park, a kid’s play area and various cafes and restaurants.
Beach Location: 95 2 D St, Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah 3, Dubai.
2- JBR Beach
JBR Beach, also known as Jumeirah Beach Residences Beach, is a popular beach in Dubai due to its proximity to expat residences in the JBR area.
The beach area is like a contemporary Arabian beach with a cosmopolitan crowd.
It stretches over 1.7 km (more than a mile) and is always busy with tourists and locals.
It’s near shops and restaurants and offers a range of activities, including beach volleyball, water sports and camel rides.
Amenities are showers, changing rooms, and sun loungers, making it an ideal spot for families and friends to spend a day in the sun.
Beach Location: The Walk, Al Mamsha St, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai.
3- Umm Suqeim Night Swimming Beach
A popular spot for surfers, Umm Suqeim Night Swimming Beach is close to the Burj Al Arab and offers stunning views of the hotel and the Dubai skyline.
This is one of the few beaches in Dubai where swimming is allowed after sunset, and you can stay here till late at night.
With plenty of changing cubicles, lifeguards, a children’s play area, and even a library, the beach is quite popular during the day and at night.
The beach is close to Kite Beach and is easily accessible.
Beach Location: 23 2a St, Umm Suqeim, Jumeirah 3, Dubai.
4- Black Palace Beach (Secret Beach or Sufouh Beach)
Black Palace Beach is a lesser-known but well-connected beach in Dubai, known for its serene and secluded atmosphere.
It’s near Palm Jumeirah and has stunning views of the Dubai skyline and the Burj Al Arab.
The beach is not as crowded as many other Dubai beaches and is a great place to relax and enjoy the scenery.
Swim in the crystal-clear waters, go sunbathing on the white sands and escape from the crowds.
The seclusion comes with a downside, that is, you won’t find showering and changing facilities or restaurants on the beach.
Beach Location: Al Sufouh, Al Sufouh 1, Dubai.
5- La Mer Beach
In the upscale Jumeirah 1 neighbourhood, this beautiful beach offers an experience that combines exclusivity with entertainment.
This Dubai beach has a relaxed beach town ambience in the midst of the bustling city.
Lined with palm trees and the view of the expansive gulf on one side and the brilliant Dubai skyline on the other, this charming beach has many dining and leisure activities available.
Check out the murals and graffiti.
The beach also has a waterpark, but check the timings before visiting this park.
Beach Location: La Mer, Jumeirah 1, Dubai.
6- Jumeirah Public Beach (Sunset Beach)
Jumeirah Public Beach is one of Dubai’s most popular and iconic beaches, as it offers big views of Burj Al Arab, the most iconic landmark in Dubai.
The beach has soft powdery sand, clear and calm waters, and various amenities, such as showers, changing rooms, and cafes in close proximity.
If you are looking for a beach in Dubai to go swimming and sunbathing, with all the amenities, this beach is a must-visit.
Beach Location: 4 2 C St, Umm Suqeim, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai.
7- Mercato Beach
This charming and quiet beach is located in a residential neighbourhood of Dubai in the Jumeirah 1 area.
The beach is close to the Mercato Mall and ideal for a relaxed and quiet beach experience.
While the beach doesn’t have many water sports, it offers a free book library (like some other public beaches), free changing rooms, sun loungers, a cycling track and some low-key cafes offering Middle Eastern and Western food.
The beach is not very touristy and popular with locals due to its relaxed vibe.
Beach Location: 152 4b St, Jumeirah 1, Dubai.
8- Sunset Beach
Opposite Sunset Mall on Jumeirah Beach Road, Sunset Beach is one of the less crowded beaches in Dubai.
The main attraction is the sunset views, making it a popular spot for photography and romantic sundowners.
It also has jogging tracks and a playground for its; you can swim, sunbathe, surf and paddleboard.
If you want to spend a longer time, you can rent beach umbrellas and chairs.
Beach Location: Sunset Beach, Jumeirah 3, Dubai.
9- Al Mamzar Beach Park
One of Dubai’s most popular family beach parks is Al Mamzar Beach Park, near the border of the emirate of Sharjah.
It is a large park with five beaches, picnic areas, barbecue facilities, cabin rentals, swimming pools and playgrounds.
The beach is very popular among locals due to its facilities.
Beach Location: Al Mamzar Beach St, Al Mamzar, Dubai.
10- Jebel Ali Public Beach
Jebel Ali Public Beach is a quiet and serene beach near the Palm Jebel Ali artificial islands.
The beach is in the south of Dubai and requires a bit of driving to get to it.
This is another beach with soft, white sand and clear blue waters that are perfect for swimming, sunbathing and beach volleyball.
The beach has basic facilities like showers, changing rooms, and sun loungers and is ideal for relaxation and picnicking.
Due to its increasing popularity, you’ll find some new restaurants in this area.
Beach location: Public Beach, Mina Jebel Ali, Dubai.
11- Palm West Beach (Palm Jumeirah)
This pet-friendly beach on the Palm Jumeirah islands is a 1.6 km (one mile) long beach strip with all the modern amenities you want.
The beach has all-day sports and entertainment activities, beachfront restaurants and cafes, shower amenities, and free internet wi-fi.
Although ideal for those who stay at the properties close to the beach, you can also visit this beach as a day trip and spend a whole and use the facilities in one of the many restaurants nearby.
The beach is free to visit, but the facilities are charged.
Beach Location: No 1, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai.
12- Barasti Beach
If you are looking for a beach where you can party to the beat of a DJ with a drink in your hand, Barasti Beach is a top spot.
The beach is free to enter, but the facilities on offer by the beach club are not free.
While most beaches in Dubai don’t allow alcohol on the beach, Barasti is an exception where you can consume alcohol.
The beach club offers a range of activities and entertainment options, including several bars and restaurants, a swimming pool and a stage for live music and DJ performances.
You can also enjoy various activities like volleyball, beach soccer, and water sports here.
With calm waters on one side and beautiful views of the Dubai Marina skyline on the other, the beach is ideal for those looking to party.
Beach Location: Le Meridien Mina Syahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai Marina, Dubai.
13- Cove Beach Caesars Palace
Cove Beach Caesars Palace is a luxurious private beach club on Bluewaters Island beside Palm Jumeirah and at the westernmost point of Dubai Marina.
This luxury beach club requires day passes (if you are not staying in the hotel) and is known for its vibrant atmosphere, private beach access and variety of amenities and dining options.
The beach club also regularly organises events and entertainment activities like live music and DJ performances.
Whether you want to unwind in style or celebrate a special occasion, Cove Beach at Ceasers Palace Dubai offers a memorable experience.
Beach Location: Caesars Palace, Bluewaters Island, Dubai.
14- Zero Gravity Beach Club
Zero Gravity is located near Palm Jumeirah and beside Skydive Dubai, an award-winning private pool and beach club.
The club requires a compulsory day pass to access it.
It has an exclusive private beach with amenities like a swimming pool, cabanas and unlimited food and beverages on specific days.
After sunset, the club is a popular party spot, with regular live DJ performances.
The club also allows free entry for ladies on Tuesdays and free admission for cabin crew and teachers on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Beach Location: Dubai Marina, Skydive Dubai Drop Zone, King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St, Dubai.
15- White Beach (Palm Jumeirah)
White Beach is a private beach on Palm Jumeirah island beside the famous Atlantis Dubai Resort.
The beach has a serene and relaxing atmosphere.
It’s free for those staying at the resort, while outsiders can access it by purchasing a day pass or reserve the plush sun loungers and cabanas to enjoy the facilities, including a pool, bar, and restaurant.
The beach also has an infinity swimming pool open even after sunset.
The unique luxurious and relaxing beach experience is ideal for families, couples and small groups.
Beach Location: Atlantis, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai.
Beaches Near Dubai
16- Al Khan Beach (Sharjah)
Located in the emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, Al Khan Beach is a beautiful sandy beach with clear waters and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.
This well-maintained beach in Sharjat has showers, restrooms and beach umbrellas.
You can participate in recreational activities such as water slides, parasailing, surfing and even use the beach volleyball courts.
Kids will love the Sharjah Aquarium located near the beach.
There are also restaurants and food kiosks nearby, making the beach a great place to relax, swim, or enjoy water sports.
Beach Location: 89M5+RQX, Al Khan, Sharjah.
17- Ajman Beach (Ajman)
Ajman Beach is a serene stretch of coastline in the emirate of Ajman, United Arab Emirates.
The beach is popular for its soft, white sand and clear waters that are slightly fiercer compared to the beaches in Dubai.
The beach has many water sports activities like jet skiing, parasailing and banana boat rides if you are in the mood for adventure.
If you want to relax, pull up a sun lounger under an umbrella and kick back with a drink in hand, or sleep in the cool windy ambience.
You can also take a leisurely walk along the promenade, which runs parallel to the beach and see the city’s impressive architecture.
The beach is also home to several restaurants, cafes, and shisha lounges.
Beach Location: Beach, Al Rumailah 2, Ajman.
18- Corniche Beach (Abu Dhabi)
Opened in 2008, Abu Dhabi’s Corniche Beach is in the heart of the city and is one of the city’s most popular beaches destinations.
The beach stretches for about eight kilometres (five miles) along the Corniche road and offers expansive views of the Arabian Gulf.
The Corniche Beach district is divided into three sections – family, single and public.
The beach has soft, white sand and clear blue water.
It also has children’s play equipment, bike and cart rentals, sun loungers and umbrellas.
This well-maintained beach near Dubai is surrounded by lush green parks, walking and jogging tracks, and several restaurants and cafes.
If you are doing a day trip from Dubai, Abu Dhabi’s Corniche Beach is the perfect place to unwind in between.
Beach Location: Corniche, Al Bateen, Abu Dhabi.
19- Khor Fakkan Beach (Sharjah)
If you are looking for a beach experience in UAE that offers beautiful views, rugged coastline and away from the hustle and bustle of a megacity, you must visit the Khor Fakkan beach.
Unlike other beaches on the list, this beach is located on a stretch of coastline on the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates, close to Fujairah.
The beach is in the adjacent emirate of Sharjah and 133 km (83 miles) away from Dubai.
With crystal-clear waters and pristine white sand, the beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs and hidden coves, providing a dramatic backdrop for visitors to explore a popular destination for visitors looking to relax, swim and soak up the sun.
You can also stay in one of the popular resorts here, engage in water sports, stroll along the promenade and explore the area’s attractions like the local market, a historic castle, and hot springs.
Beach Location: Beach, Khor Fakkan, Sharjah.
20- RAK Public Beach (Ras Al Khaimah)
If you have a few hours to spare and want to explore beaches outside Dubai, you must visit RAK Beach.
This public beach is located in the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, about 120 kilometres (74.5 miles) from Dubai.
Located close to the Hajar Mountains, the beach has uninterrupted views of the Gulf on one side and stunning views of the mountains on the other.
The beach offers a relaxed atmosphere and makes for an excellent destination for those looking to unwind and escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
You can go swimming, sunbathing, and take part in water sports like jet skiing and paddle boarding here.
The beach also features a variety of food trucks and cafes, offering a range of dining options.
Temperatures in Ras Al Khaimah are typically lower than in other areas of the UAE, especially on the mountain range, which makes it a great weekend trip.
Beach Location: Al Qasimi Corniche Rd, Old Ras Al Khaimah, Ras al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates.
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