The warm turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf lapping on to the soft white sand all along Dubai’s coastline are a sun seekers haven and offer a relaxing alternative to exploring the city. Clean, sandy beaches, guaranteed year-round sunshine, and near-perfect conditions for water sports make Dubai an ideal location for beach lovers.

There are many beautiful beaches in Dubai. You have a choice between public beaches (limited facilities but no entry fee), beach parks (good facilities and a nominal entrance fee), and private beaches (normally part of a hotel or resort).

Options for public beaches include the area around Al Mamzar Beach Park, which has a cordoned-off swimming area, chalets, jet skis for hire and free beaches along the lagoon to the south. South of Dubai Creek, you’ll come to Jumeira Open Beach, which is great for soaking up the sun and swimming. Further south brings you to the small beaches between Dubai Offshore Sailing Club and Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

Beach Parks

A visit to one of Dubai’s beach parks is a perfect way to spend the day – the warm waters, white sandy beaches and stretches of lush greenery will transport you a hundred miles from the stresses of city life. There are two beach parks in Dubai - Jumeirah Beach Park and Al Mamzar Beach Park. Both parks are busy at weekends, especially during winter, although Al Mamzar Park rarely feels crowded because it is so huge. Both parks have a ladies’ day when men are not allowed (ladies may enter with their young sons, however).

Parks

Situated around Dubai are numerous public parks and gardens. They offer attractive picnic spots and children’s play areas with a wide variety of entertainment facilities. Almost all parks have a ‘Ladies Day’ when the entry is restricted to women and children.