Dubai is easily the best beach destination in the Middle East and despite the hot summers, draw people all year round. Here, anytime is a good time to hit the beach – which is never empty – even through late nights – be it people picnicking, making sand castles or enjoying a game of volleyball or beach ball and swimming – yeah. It is pretty much the best way to cool off in the hot summers.
A word of caution though – at all times carry plenty of sunscreen if you are intending to soak up the sun on a summer day. Remember that Dubai has paid and unpaid beaches – the paid ones are usually attached to hotels which means much of your basic requirements are met – but public beaches too have shower areas and enough shade in case you have a sudden urge for it.
On public beaches it is better to stick to local rules as far as dressing goes. Try not to turn up in bikinis (which are okay at the hotel beaches). Shorts is a good alternative.
FREE BEACHES
Dubai has a long coastline and not all of it is gobbled up by plush resorts that require you to pay to use the golden sands. In fact, there are pockets of the sandy stretches that are still quite undiscovered and you cannot chance upon it unless you are the type who likes going off the track and find a spot of your own.
JBR Beach
conveniently located near The WALK, Dubai’s most happening destination which features plenty of juice bars, burger joints and gelato counters by the sea. The beach is accessible from various points along The Walk at JBR.
Kitesurfing Beach (Kite Beach)
Although you find more soccer and volleyball players than actual kitesurfers here, this beach is called the Kitesurfers Beach and is very popular for its unobstructed beaches – a hot favourite for kite-flyers. Rive past the World Project Office. It is behind Saga World, Umm Suqeim 1.
Jumeirah Open Beach
Once known as the Russian Beach (and no one knows why, but the name is a giveaway for sure), this is Dubai’s first public beach, popular among tourists and residents alike. Showers and public toilets are available at this naturally long beach. It even has a running track and snack-shops just in case. Turn right a little distance after the Palm Strip Mall, Jumeirah. (This property is now being developed extensively)
4×4 Beach
As the name suggests, this beach is popular among people with wheels that drive right up to the beach for some fantastic views – many don’t even get out! Stick your head out the sun-roof and voila, the sight that greets you is fabulous. This beach is located next to Jumeirah Beach Park, Jumeirah 2.
PAID BEACHES
Habtoor Grand Beach Resort & Spa
(Ph 04 408 4444; Dubai Marina)
A day at Habtoor’s pool and beach with a swim-up pool bar on one side and exciting waterslides on the other guarantees a wide range of interests – lounge in the sun, splash in the pools, dine at the restaurant or enjoy a host of watersports – all in one day. If you want some quiet, go for a long walk along the private beach full of cool shades and children play area, else you could relax in the temperature controlled pool. The swim-up bar is a great option for some lively music and a relaxing cool drink. It is a great place for families, as well as small groups of friends or couples.
Club Joumana
(Ph 04 814 5555; Jebel Ali)
A short drive from the Dubai Marina, Club Joumana at the Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa is spread over a long stretch of beach and shady tress and hence far by the prettiest in comparison to most beach clubs. Never mind the time of the eek you choose to visit, it is always a pleasure to be here. The fairly recent addition – Watercooled watersports hut on the beach is attracting plenty of visitors. Here you try your hand at Zapcat ride. Plenty of sun loungers available but they get snapped up pretty quickly. Food and drink options are available at the club.
Club Mina
(Ph 04 399 3333; Al Sufouh Road)
Apart from the pools including an infinity pool, lap pool, kids area, there are tennis courts, gym, volleyball and basketball courts. This club includes a 500m coast area in front of Westin and Barasti and is a great place for those looking to soak up the sun. Adults can make the most of the three swim-up bars and Barasti for sundowners. It is really a big place and even when packed to capacity, it feels there is enough space for more. Highly recommended for families, couples, teenagers, kids- there is something for everyone to occupy their time interestingly.
Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa
(Ph 04 346 1111; Jumeirah)
Well, zize here doesn’t matter, because despite the large area it covers, it has very well managed to retain an old world charm – and it often feels as though you are walking through a cozy village – hence attracting plenty of retired couples and chirpy tourists looking to add something extra to their beach experience. Pools, gyms, tennis courts and plenty of sun loungers – not to mention the well-stocked bars that keeps the refreshment flowing. Great many options for food available – Eat at Arabic coffee shop Al Khayma, Lebanese restaurant Al Qasr, Italian venue Capanna Nuova or the Thai Bistro, and drink at Cuban-themed Malecon, lounge bar Boudoir, relaxed Loca or hip hangout Sho Cho.
One&Only Royal Mirage
(Ph 04 399 9999; Al Sufouh Road)
To begin with, it is quite pricey. If you love the sun and don’t mind spending extra few dirhams then this is the place for you. The long stretch of beach is private and well kept. Number of watersports on offer and even day guests can enjoy a swim in the pool with complimentary towels and water. Its proximity to the Beach Bar & Grill and Jetty Lounge – two popular beachside hangouts, makes it all the more attractive.
