Fun beach activities in Dubai that you shouldn’t miss out on
It is no secret that the beach clubs and public beaches in Dubai offer world-class services and some of the most fun and amazing beach activities in Dubai. We can go on and on about all the things you can do on beaches in Dubai, but that would be a waste of purpose. So, we categorised some of our top things to do at Dubai’s beaches for you. Let’s begin:
Palm Jumeirah Beach Activities
Perhaps the biggest attraction at the Palm Jumeirah Beach is the Atlantis Aquaventure that offers a complete range of watersport activities, a water park, an underwater aquarium and more. Besides that, Palm Jumeirah is also home to one of the many pristine beaches in Dubai. Entry to the beach is free; however, you would be charged a fee for entry into Atlantis Aquaventure. There are also a number of private beaches along Palm Jumeirah which are connected to the 5-star beach resorts in the area.
Wildlife Encounters
This is one of the top beach activities in Dubai that you can indulge in and Palm Jumeirah Beach is the best place for it. From shark safaris to ray feeding (AED 135), dolphin encounters (AED 325) and discovering the sea lions (AED 580) – you can do it all right here.
Aquaventure Park
The Atlantis Aquaventure Park with fun-filled slides and rides is another popular attraction on this beach. Tired of lounging in the sun? Maybe it’s time to hit the rides and get that adrenaline pumping.
Snorkelling
Discover the underwater world with the snorkelling excursions offered at the Atlantis. Dive into the Ambassador Lagoon and swim with the fish. Tickets cost AED 335 per person.
Jumeirah Beach Residence: JBR Beach Dubai Activities
Outdoor yoga, beach-side dining, watersports and traditional camel rides – the JBR Beach offers an eclectic mix of beach activities in Dubai. This is not just a beach, but an entire waterfront lifestyle similar to the one provided by the modern JBR Dubai (Jumeirah Beach Residence) locality. Since there is no entrance fee, you can head out there anytime you want. Obviously, you may pick your favourites out of all the things to do on beaches in Dubai, specifically JBR, but when you get a chance – try these:
Banana Boat Ride
Experience the joy of slicing through the surface of the water on an inflated banana-shaped boat. Pulled through via a speed boat – this ride is full of thrill, splashes and fun.
Kayaking
Thanks to the calm waters of the JBR beach, kayaking in Dubai can be done in the ocean too. All you need is a rental kayak from the beachside rental service.
JetPacking
Fly up into the air powered by a jetpack. There are a handful of watersports operators on the beach that offers jetpacking for adventurous beach bums like you.
Kite Beach Activities
One of the best public beaches in Dubai, Kite Beach allows free entry for everyone. The beach is located close to the Burj Al Arab. There are plenty of beach activities in Dubai here for you to try. From food trucks and a beach library to watersports and volleyball courts – things to do at Kite Beach are a complete fun package. But the activities that make it different from other beaches include:
Kite Surfing
You can take kitesurfing lessons in Dubai for AED 350 per hour for a single person. If you’re already good at kitesurfing, you can rent the full set of kite surf equipment for AED 350 per hour. The kite only will cost you AED 250 per hour.
Paddleboarding
You can also try stand-up paddleboarding. The equipment for it can be rented from the beach, just like sunbeds and other watersports equipment.
Scuba Diving
There are quite a few independent operators that take people for scuba diving excursions. Usually, prices may vary from operator to operator, but they are between AED 175 and AED 250 per person.
There are some basic things you need to keep in mind when you’re at Kite Beach:
- Photography is not allowed
- Swimming after sunset is not allowed
- Pets are not allowed
- Barbeque, bonfires and shisha is not permitted
La Mer Beach Activities
Dubai’s most insta-friendly beach is home to a wide range of exciting activities that appeal to every beach bum. The unique La Mer Beach allows free entry for all, but you have to pay for the restaurants and other beach activities in Dubai that they offer. The beach is located between Jumeirah Bay and Pearl Jumeirah.
Hawa Hawa
A trampoline on a beach? Unleash your inner kid and let loose as you jump around Hawa Hawa. This trampoline park is open for people of all ages and is hands down one of the unique beach activities in Dubai you can’t afford to miss.
Laguna Waterpark
There are no restrictions on the things to do on a beach in Dubai when you are at La Mer. This beach has its own waterpark for those who want that extra bit of fun and adrenaline apart from the vast waterfront. Head over to and enjoy the best of Laguna Waterpark.
Sea Breeze
Whether you want to indulge in watersports or spend a laid back day at the beach – Sea Breeze is your destination. They offer a variety of water sports to indulge in, including jet skiing to flyboarding and even the epic Seabreacher, the infamous shark-shaped submarine. The wide range of watersports activities start at AED 105 and go up to AED 800 per person. Sunbed rentals cost AED 60 and you can get a beach umbrella and towel with it for AED 100.
Mamzar Beach Activities
With an exciting variety of beach activities in Dubai, Al Mamzar Beach is a definite favourite. There are just so many things to do at Al Mamzar Beach that it doesn’t really matter what age you are and what particular activities you enjoy. The beach is located near Deira and Hamriya Port You can rent a beach cabin for the day and then enjoy the host of beach activities allowed there. If you are planning to rent a cabin here, it would cost you AED 150 for the smaller one and AED 200 for the larger one. Entry fee is AED 5 per person and AED 30 per car. People of determination and kids under the age of 2 can enter for free. Our favourite activities at Al Mamzar Beach include:
Barbeque
This one is our absolute favourite. Beach services at Al Mamzar Park also include readymade barbeque pits where you can grill meats to perfection. So, get those steaks sizzling while you take a dip into the ocean. Who said the beach has to be only about simple snacks and sandwiches?
Cycling
You can go cycling in the beach park. Cycles can be rented from independent vendors who offer a variety of bicycle types and sizes. Rental prices vary accordingly.
Skateboarding
Al Mamzar Beach also has a skateboard platform for those of you looking for some skating thrills. It’s an excellent activity for kids or skating enthusiasts. Plus, you will find a great company to share and celebrate your skills with.
While you’re at Al Mamzar Beach, keep in mind that:
- Pets are not allowed
- You need to dress decently
- All kids should be accompanied by adults
- Bonfires are not allowed
Black Palace Beach Activities
There is no shortage of beaches in Dubai, but this one is different; primarily because it has fewer activities and a lesser crowd. Call it the Black Palace, Al Sufouh or the Secret Beach in Dubai – this is a small beach strip stretched between Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Al Arab. It stays well-hidden from the public eye, thanks to the row of palm trees that conceals it. Even with the lack of facilities, the Black Palace beach is immensely popular, because it offers you a range of old-school beach activities in Dubai.
Camping
Pitch up your tents, set up a grill for the barbeque, light up a bonfire and you’re all set for a peaceful camping night at the beach! It’s not every day you get to do that.
Picnic
Pack some food, a few beach towels and a beach umbrella. Trust us, that’s all you need for a minimalist picnic at the beach.
Swimming
Enjoy a swim in the ocean. Plunge into the warm, clear water or float on the surface, it entirely your choice. The best part is, you’ll mostly find yourself accompanied by only a few other people unless it’s one of the UAE public holidays or a weekend.
Before you get too excited about all this know the rules.
- Do not lie down topless or naked on the beach
- Swimming after sunset is forbidden
- Do not photograph other people on the beach, especially women
- Beachwear is meant for beaches. Do not walk around in it outside the beach
Royal Beach Activities
If you’re looking for a place where you can enjoy exclusive beach activities in Dubai, Royal Beach is a good option. Located on Lebanon Island in the World Islands, this is one of the high-end private beaches in Dubai. There are plenty of things to do at Royal Beach if you wish to spend a luxurious ‘beach’ day. Entry charges to the beach amount to AED 300 for adults and AED 150 for children up to 10 years old. Kids under the age of 3 are allowed free entry. You can enjoy the following beach activities in Dubai at Royal Beach.
Beach Volleyball
Proper volleyball courts are available for those of you who enjoy a competitive streak even when you’re out to relax. Gather up your friends, team up and game on! Beach volleyball at Royal Beach is an absolute delight.
Kayaking
If you wish to experience peaceful kayaking in Dubai, this is the place for it. Rental kayaks are available for AED 100 per hour at the Royal Island Beach Club.
Luxury Sunbathing
Lounge away on sunbeds by the poolside or on the beach with the immaculate Royal Island Beach Club staff at your service. Sip on your favourite cocktails and let the sun warm you up.
Mercato Beach Activities
Located along the Jumeirah Beach Road in Jumeirah 2, it’s one of the public beaches in Dubai with free access. Standing in proximity to the Mercato Shopping Mall, Mercato Beach offers paid car parking, changing facilities and easy accessibility for people of determination. Popular beach activities in Dubai offered at Mercato include:
Beach Library
Fancy enjoying a good read as you soak up the sun? Your wish is duly granted at the Mercato Beach. The Dubai Municipality launched the beach library initiative at Mercato beach and it’s free. You can borrow the books from one of the library units on the beach and then return it once you’re done reading. These well-lit library kiosks come with tables and beanbags, which means you can read even after the sun goes down.
Other Activities
In case you’re looking for more things to do at Mercato Beach in Dubai, stick to the basics. Enjoy a game of volleyball with friends and/or family, get a natural tan, go for a swim in the sea, or just jog along the beach park track. There’s also a cycling track for impromptu cardio on the beach – it’s even better if you live in the nearby rental flats in Jumeirah 2. If you want a quick bite, try the restaurants and cafés at Jumeirah Fish Harbour, which is located a short walk away from the beach.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you choose public or private beaches in Dubai, there will always be a ton of activities for you to have a good time there. In the end, it all boils down to what you enjoy more.
But no matter what activities you want to try on Dubai’s beaches, there are a few things to consider before making a trip to one of them. Here are some of the frequently asked questions about beach activities in Dubai.
Are beaches in Dubai man-made?
While there are man-made islands in Dubai, the beaches are very real. Located on the shores of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai has access to a long stretch of coastline along which its beaches are located.
Is the sea warm in Dubai?
The sea is warm enough for an enjoyable swim during the larger part of the year. However, between the months of December and February, the water can get quite cold on Dubai’s beaches.
What do you wear on the beach in Dubai?
Modesty should be maintained with whatever you wear on Dubai beaches, but you don’t have to cover up completely. Sundresses and modest shorts are allowed on the beach for women while men are recommended to wear light shirts. While swimming, most beaches require you to wear swimwear. But this usually excludes skimpy bikinis.
Do you have favourite beaches in Dubai or are there any beach activities in Dubai that you specifically enjoy? Let us know on mybayut@bayut.com. We love it when you get in touch with us.
