The United Arab Emirates benefits from hundreds of kilometers of shoreline along both the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman and is home to some of the best beaches in the region. It is also a regional hub for all manner of watersports, from kite-surfing (and actual surfing) to diving, snorkeling and paddle-boarding. Jet-skiing, too, is a beloved pastime off many of the beaches.
It isn’t all about sunbeds and parasols either. Fujairah and the beaches on the Gulf of Oman are excellent for wildlife, from birds to sea life, and sea turtles and vast flocks of flamingos often grace the beaches of Abu Dhabi and the south. Many visitors opt for the paid-for hotel club beaches where you can wear western-style swimwear and often serve alcohol, but some of the public beaches are just as good, although more conservative and obviously sans-booze.
A word on the water: in winter the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman can be cool – even cold – but in the summer months the water is akin to bathing in soup, both in terms of consistency and temperature on the Arabian Gulf coast, and you may prefer to cool off in the hotel pool.
1. Jumeirah Beach, Dubai
The OG of UAE beaches, Jumeirah Beach has soft white sand, warm waters and views of the Burj al-Arab. It is free, family-friendly and well equipped with lifeguards, showers and play areas. Near the Burj al-Arab, the beach is more open and there is even surfing, as well as various cafes and restaurants. Jumeirah is hands down Dubai’s best beach.
2. Saadiyat Beach, Abu Dhabi
On one of Abu Dhabi’s newest territories, Saadiyat Island, Saadiyat Beach is wide and quiet and feels a world away from the city bustle. It’s also a protected eco-zone, with sea turtles nesting here every year. During the summer months, beachgoers are asked to leave before sunset to allow the turtles to care for their eggs undisturbed.
Saadiyat Beach Club is an expensive luxury option but there’s also a public beach park section with loungers, showers and a beach café. Entry to the public beach is around AED 25.
3. Kite Beach, Dubai
The clue is in the name, but Kite Beach is where Dubai’s kitesurfers, paddleboarders and other sporty-types come to get active on the sea. There are also volleyball courts. Close to the beach are a number of eating options including local favorite SALT Burger.
4. Marina Beach, Dubai
For those staying in the Marina or visiting, Marina Beach is the best place for a swim – as well as food and entertainment, with outlets that come right up to the water. Jumeirah Beach Residence and the restaurants and cafes embedded into its lower levels have been joined in recent years by myriad shops and food outlets that are literally built on the sand.
5. Corniche Beach, Abu Dhabi
Stretching nearly eight kilometers along the capital’s waterfront, Corniche Beach is strictly divided into several zones – public, family-only, and singles or ‘bachelors’ – with a nominal entry fee of around AED 10 for the private, well-maintained section. Solo women will be allowed in the family section, but solo men will have to slum it with the other bachelors.
You could happily spend the day at Corniche Beach and the promenade makes it easy to pair a beach visit with a stroll or a bike ride along the shore.
6. Al Khan Beach, Sharjah
Sharjah’s Al Khan Beach may not have Dubai’s dazzle, but it is clean, less crowded and offers kayak and paddleboard rentals, along with basic facilities and food options nearby. There’s a small entry fee – AED 10 per person or AED 40 per car – but tourists can enter for free with a valid passport and visa. It closes at sunset.
7. Ajman Beach, Ajman
Ajman Beach has a laid-back vibe and natural setting, with soft white sand and gentle waves. It’s ideal for families, with shower facilities, toilets and a volleyball court on site. Across the street, are KFC and Krispy Kreme amongst others, and a 500-meter walking track for when you want to burn off that fried chicken and donuts.
8. Al Aqah Beach, Fujairah
Tucked between the Gulf of Oman and the Hajar Mountains, Al Aqah Beach in Fujairah is a world apart from the polished resort vibes of the western coast. Dark sand and cool and clean water makes this beach very different to the Arabian Gulf coast.
This is one of the UAE’s best spots for snorkelling and diving, especially around nearby Snoopy Island. With numerous resorts dotting the shoreline and designated camping areas, Al Aqah is perfect for weekend nights under the canvas – or stars.
9. Al Sufouh Beach (Secret Beach), Dubai
Once known as Black Palace Beach, Al Sufouh has not been a secret in Dubai for a long time. Sandwiched between luxury hotels and royal residences, it was one of a few uncolonised local spots for some time. However, it was recently closed to the public, with speculation that it too may fall foul to the rampant coastal development of Dubai and the other emirates.
10. Al Bateen Beach, Abu Dhabi
Overlooking Hudayryiat Island, Al Bateen Beach offers calm waters, sandy shores and a low-key atmosphere that appeals to both expats and locals. It’s free to access and has a dedicated women-only area with shaded seating and extended hours. It’s open daily until 10pm.
Families love it for the safe swimming conditions, while adventurers can rent paddleboards or even jet skis. Al Bateen is also one of the country’s Blue Flag beaches, recognised for cleanliness and eco-friendly credentials. There have been occasional access restrictions, so it's worth checking ahead before making the trip.
