Key Takeaways
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The futuristic Dubai is known for its marvels, where you get a variety of experiences. Out of all experiences, people love exploring the things to do in Burj Khalifa.
We know, Burj Khalifa has become an identity of Dubai, but it would be wrong if you neglect the list of great beaches in Dubai, which makes the trip even more fun and memorable.
Dubai is located along the Arabian Gulf. It has over 70 km of coastline, which naturally forms beaches. Not just this, over the years, this city has also developed several man-made beaches and artificial islands, which have further extended its shoreline.
In short, Dubai has both natural and man-made beaches despite being a desert city.
Public beaches are free and open to everyone, while private beaches require a paid entry or hotel access. Natural beaches lie along Dubai’s original coastline, whereas man-made beaches are built on reclaimed islands like Palm Jumeirah and Bluewaters Island.
So, let’s learn about the best beaches in Dubai that, as a tourist, you should add to your itinerary
List of the Best Beaches in Dubai
The best beaches in Dubai include JBR Beach, Marina Beach, Kite Beach, Sunset Beach, Jumeirah Public Beach, La Mer Beach, Palm West Beach (Palm Jumeirah), Al Mamzar Beach Park, White Beach (Atlantis The Palm), and Nikki Beach Dubai. These beaches have free public access, luxury beach clubs, natural coastline views, and a unique man-made island.
In this guide, you will find a list of the best public and private beaches in Dubai, along with their locations. It covers each beach’s highlights, water activities, views, and practical tips for an easy visit. So, let’s get started-
JBR Beach
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
- Beach Type: Public, Natural Beach
JBR Beach is a kind of beach resort and one of the best places to visit in Dubai with lounges, restaurants, shopping venues and hotels.
Access to this beach is free, and it is always busy from morning until late evening. With restaurants, beach clubs, and entertainment right next to the shore, JBR Beach provides you with relaxation with city energy and is ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers alike.
Things to do in JRB Beach
- Boat Rides & Train Rides (for kids)
- Camel Rides
- 600 metres running track
- Swimming and sunbathing
- Water activities: Parasailing, Wakeboarding, Jet Skiing and Parasailing
- Beach walks along The Walk at JBR
- Dining at beachfront restaurants
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- Entry: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours (water activities during the day)
Marina Beach
- Location: Dubai Marina, adjacent to Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
- Beach Type: Public, Natural
Marina Beach is a popular public beach located along the Dubai Marina waterfront, which is also considered to be one of the best places to stay in Dubai.
Marina Beach and JBR Beach are physically connected. There’s no clear boundary between them on the sand. Most travel guides refer to the entire stretch as “JBR Beach”
Thus, Marina Beach is part of the larger JBR Beach area.
Things to Do at Marina Beach
- Swim in calm, shallow waters
- Enjoy picturesque walks along the shoreline
- Capture photos of the Dubai Marina skyline
- Relax on the sand away from heavy crowds
- Visit restaurants and cafes at JBR
- Do a little shopping
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- Entry: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Kite Beach
- Location: Umm Suqeim, near Burj Al Arab
- Beach Type: Public, Natural Beach
Kite Beach is one of the best beaches in Dubai for swimming because of its clear water and natural coastline beauty. The best part is this beach has a 14km stretch where you can walk, run or jog. Not just this, you can swim under the night sky as it is open 24/7.
Note: The highlight here is the stunning view of the Burj Al Arab, making it an excellent spot for photos.
Things to Do & Water Activities
- Beach Volleyball
- Food trucks and cafes
- Wakeboarding, Kitesurfing, Stand-up Paddleboarding
- Jogging, Cycling, Swimming and Outdoor Workouts
- Entry: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Sunset Beach (Umm Suqeim Beach)
- Location: Umm Suqeim
- Beach Type: Public, Natural Beach
Sunset Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in Dubai, as it offers incredible views of the Burj Al Arab in the background. And the best time to visit this beach is during sunset to watch the sun go down over the Arabian Gulf.
Facilities are basic, but the peaceful atmosphere and scenic setting make it a must-visit for travellers seeking calm and beauty.
Note: It’s quieter than JBR, thus, it is one of the best places to visit in Dubai for couples and photographers.
Things to Do & Water Activities
- Sunset photography
- Fishing, Surfing (seasonal)
- Peaceful morning beach walks, run or jog
- Swimming
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- Entry: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Jumeirah Beach
- Location: Jumeirah coastline
- Beach Type: Public · Natural
Jumeirah is a white sandy beach along the coastal stretch in Dubai, where you can find many hotels and resorts. Near the shore, you get numerous restaurants and shopping venues from where you can buy the best Dubai souvenirs.
Also, there’s a park, barbecue and picnic area nearby, which is why it is one of the best places to visit in Dubai with family. The beach offers open sea views, ample space to relax, and easy access to nearby cafés and parks.
Things to Do & Water Activities
- Skydiving
- Swimming and Sunbathing
- Family Picnics
- Beach Walks
- Casual Water Sports (seasonal)
Palm West Beach
- Location: Palm Jumeirah
- Beach Type: Public Access, Man-made Beach
Palm West Beach is a scenic promenade beach located on the iconic man-made Palm Jumeirah. It offers a premium promenade beach experience.
Despite being a public area, this beach has numerous stylish restaurants, cafés, and beach clubs. Visitors enjoy incredible views of the Dubai Marina skyline and luxury resorts across the water.
Palm West Beach is ideal for tourists wanting to experience Dubai’s famous artificial islands without committing to a private beach club.
Things to Do & Water Activities
- Walking along the promenade
- Dining at beachfront restaurants
- Swimming and relaxing
- Sunset and skyline views
- Entry: Free (beach clubs charge separately)
- Timings: Open daily, generally 8:00 AM to sunset
Al Mamzar Beach
- Location: Al Mamzar, near the Dubai and Sharjah border
- Beach Type: Public, Natural Beach
Al Mamzar Beach Park is one of the most spacious and well-maintained public beaches in Dubai. With multiple beach areas, green lawns, picnic spots, and swimming pools. It has multiple beach sections.
There is a small entry fee, but the facilities and cleanliness make it worth it. Located near the Dubai and Sharjah border, Al Mamzar offers a quieter, more organised beach experience away from the city crowd.
Things to Do & Water Activities
- Swimming in designated areas
- Picnicking and barbecuing
- Relaxing in shaded park zones
- Beach walks
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- Entry: Approx. AED 5 per person
- Timings: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM (Wed to Sun)
White Beach, Atlantis The Palm
- Location: Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah
- Beach Type: Private, Man-made Beach
White Beach is a luxury private beach club located at Atlantis The Palm. It is known for its infinity pools, elegant seating, and ocean views, where you get a high-end beach experience.
Entry is paid, but visitors get access to premium facilities, music, and dining options. White Beach is ideal for tourists looking to relax in a stylish, resort-style setting on Dubai’s famous Palm Jumeirah.
Things to Do & Water Activities
- Relax at the private beach club
- Swim in infinity pools
- Enjoy music and dining
- Lounge with sea views
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- Entry: Paid (varies by day and package)
- Timings: Usually 10:00 AM to sunset
Jebel Ali Beach
- Location: Jebel Ali
- Beach Type: Public, Natural Beach
For a peaceful time away from the crowd, visit Jebel Ali Beach. It has clean sand and calm water. It has that family-friendly atmosphere with barbecue zones. The best part is that it has spots for overnight camping.
Things to Do & Water Activities
- Calm swimming
- Long beach walks
- Sunset watching
- Relaxing in a serene environment
- Overnight camping
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- Entry: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Black Palace Beach
- Location: Al Sufouh, between Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab
- Beach Type: Public, Natural Beach
Black Palace Beach is also known as Al Sufouh Beach. It is one of Dubai’s most peaceful and lesser-known beaches.
It is located between royal palaces, and it offers uninterrupted views of the Arabian Gulf with Palm Jumeirah visible in the distance.
The beach is quiet, uncrowded, and ideal for travellers who prefer a natural, no-frills seaside experience away from the city’s busy tourist spots.
Things to Do & Water Activities
- Enjoy calm swimming in shallow waters
- Take scenic photographs of Palm Jumeira
- Relax on the quiet shoreline
- Watch beautiful sunsets
- Take peaceful beach walks
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- Entry: Free
- Timings: Open 24 hours
Beach Clubs, Bars & Restaurants in Dubai
Dubai is home to some of the best beach clubs, beach bars, and beach restaurants in the city to enjoy the greatest Dubai nightlife.
You will be amazed to see the coastline, which comes alive at night. From relaxed daytime lounging to high-energy nightlife, party lovers will have a blast here!
Let’s look at some of the best places to visit in Dubai at night–
Best Beach Clubs & Party Spots
- White Beach (Atlantis The Palm): Lavish beach club with DJs and infinity pools
- Nikki Beach Dubai: Glamorous beach club with music, dining, and sea views
- Cove Beach (Bluewaters Island): Trendy club with skyline and the views of sunset
Best Beach Bars in Dubai
- Barasti Beach Bar: Chic open-air bar with music and live sports
- Azure Beach (JBR): Trendy bar with pool and sea-facing seating
- Jetty Lounge (One&Only Royal Mirage): Relaxed sunset bar over the water
Best Beach Restaurants in Dubai
- Palm West Beach Restaurants: Wide choice of beachfront dining on Palm Jumeirah
- The Beach at JBR: Casual and fine dining near the sea
- La Mer Beach Cafes: Trendy cafes with the views of the ocean
Practical Visitor Information
Before visiting Dubai’s beaches, here are a few tips that you should know for a smooth and enjoyable visit
- Best Time to Visit: October to April offers pleasant weather for swimming and sunbathing. Summers can be extremely hot, so early mornings are ideal.
- Dress Code: Swimwear is allowed on the beach, but modest clothing is recommended when walking to and from public areas.
- Facilities: Most popular beaches have showers, changing rooms, restrooms, lifeguards, and food outlets.
- Safety: Always swim in designated areas and follow lifeguard instructions. Water conditions are generally calm but can vary.
- Accessibility: Major beaches like Marina Beach, JBR, and Kite Beach are easily accessible by taxi, metro (with short walks), and public transport.
- Entry Fees: Public beaches are free, while private beaches and beach clubs charge an entry fee or a day pass.
Conclusion
Who knew a desert city could do beaches this well? From skyline-backed swims at Marina Beach to sunset chasing at Umm Suqeim and luxury lounging on Palm Jumeirah, Dubai proves that sand, sea, and style can absolutely coexist.
Not just Dubai, nearby Abu Dhabi also offers you many great places to visit and exciting things to do. So combine it together, pack your sunscreen, charge your phone for beach photos, and let Dubai’s beaches do what they do best: make you forget you’re in the desert.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Beaches in Dubai
Which beach is best in Dubai for tourists?
JBR Beach and Marina Beach are the most popular choices for tourists due to their location, facilities, and dining options.
Which beach is best in Dubai for swimming?
Jumeirah Beach, Kite Beach, and Marina Beach are among the best for swimming due to calm waters and lifeguard presence.
Are Dubai beaches free to enter?
Most public beaches in Dubai are free, while private beach clubs require a paid entry or day pass.
Which is the best private beach in Dubai?
White Beach at Atlantis The Palm and Zero Gravity are among the most popular private beaches.
Are there family-friendly beaches in Dubai?
Yes, Jumeirah Beach, Kite Beach, and Al Mamzar Beach Park are ideal for families.
Can tourists wear swimwear on Dubai beaches?
Yes, swimwear is allowed on beaches, but visitors should dress modestly when leaving beach areas.
