Dubai is more than just futuristic skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and desert adventures—it’s also home to some of the best free public beaches in the Middle East. With its year-round sunshine, crystal blue waters, and soft golden sands, the city offers beach experiences for every traveler.
Whether you’re looking for family friendly beaches Dubai offers with kids’ play areas, trendy urban beachfronts like La Mer, or peaceful escapes such as Hidden Beach and Secret Beach, Dubai’s coastline has it all. From adrenaline-packed water sports activities Dubai is famous for, to quiet corners for sunrise photography spots, you’ll find the perfect stretch of sand to match your mood.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll explore the 10 best free public beaches and exclusive resort shores, covering hidden gems, free family-friendly spots, and luxurious escapes. Whether you’re traveling by public transport to beach areas or prefer spots with ample underground parking, this guide ensures your beach day in Dubai is hassle-free and unforgettable.
1. JBR Beach (Dubai Marina Beach)
Location: Dubai Marina – A lively waterfront district with luxury towers, promenades, and plenty of dining and entertainment options just steps from the beach.
What to Expect:
JBR Beach (also known as Dubai Marina Beach) is one of the most vibrant and family friendly beaches Dubai has to offer. Families flock here for its calm waters, clean sands, and entertainment options.
- Family vibe: The shallow sea is safe for children, and lifeguard towers manned by trained professionals ensure safety.
- Water sports activities Dubai visitors love: Jet skiing, parasailing, banana boat rides, and even a floating water park for thrill-seekers.
- Dining & shopping: Beachfront restaurants and cafes line the promenade. You’ll also find The Beach Mall, making it easy to mix shopping with a beach outing.
- Entertainment: Open-air cinemas, live events, and kids’ zones keep everyone busy.
Look out for SkyDive Dubai skydivers landing nearby—it’s a spectacular sight. Parking can be tricky here due to stealthy parking wardens, so either stick to official spots or use Careem bikes for easy access.
2. Jumeirah Public Beach (Burj Al Arab Beach)
Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, near Burj Al Arab
This iconic stretch, sometimes called Burj Al Arab Beach, is one of the most photographed free beach in Dubai thanks to the backdrop of the world’s only “7-star hotel.”
- Activities: Jogging, swimming, cycling along Jumeirah Beach Road, or simply soaking in the Palm Jumeirah view.
- Facilities: Showers, changing rooms, and free foot wash facilities.
- Atmosphere: Clean and well-maintained, with a welcoming vibe for both locals and visitors.
For photography lovers, this is the ultimate sunrise photography spot. Capture the hotel’s sail-like structure in golden morning light for the perfect postcard shot.
3. Kite Beach
Location: Jumeirah, near Umm Suqeim
A haven for sports and outdoor lovers, Kite Beach has earned its reputation as one of Dubai’s most active shores.
- Water sports activities Dubai is known for: Kite surfing, kayaking, and Surf House paddle boarding.
- Fitness & lifestyle: A 14 km jogging and cycling track, lined with food trucks and smoothie stalls.
- Dining: Trendy eateries serve everything from acai bowls to gourmet burgers.
Family focus: Open play areas, safe waters, and community events.
Don’t miss the Blue Flag status recognition, which certifies its world-class cleanliness and safety.
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4. La Mer
Location: Jumeirah 1
La Mer is more than a beach—it’s a modern lifestyle hub. Families and couples can easily spend a full day here.
- Beachfront restaurants and cafes: Choose from local bites to global chains.
- Shopping & dining: Boutiques, dessert stops, and artisan shops give the area a cosmopolitan feel.
- Activities: Surfing, floating water park, inflatable slides, and even cinemas.
- Hotels: Stay nearby at Rove La Mer or the stylish Hyatt Centric Jumeirah for direct beach access.
Art lovers will enjoy the colorful murals that make La Mer one of Dubai’s most Instagrammable family friendly beaches Dubai offers.
If you’ve planned to visit La Mer Beach with friends or as a couple, you can book tours, beach activities, or day passes online in advance to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
5. Al Mamzar Beach Park
Location: Deira, near Sharjah border
This park blends lush greenery with sandy beaches, offering a unique twist.
- Facilities: BBQ pits, shaded gazebos, swimming pools, and picnic areas.
- Access: Small entry fee (AED 5), but the amenities are extensive.
- Family vibe: Playgrounds, safe waters, and lifeguard towers manned all day.
- Special feature: Mondays and Wednesdays are ladies-only days.
If you’re planning a relaxed day, pack food, rent a cabana, and enjoy this full-service beach park.
6. Sunset Beach (Umm Suqeim Beach)
Location: Umm Suqeim, near Jumeirah Mosque
Nicknamed Sunset Beach, this is one of the quieter best free public beaches.
- Photography hotspot: Ideal for golden-hour shots of the Burj Al Arab.
- Peaceful vibe: Unlike busier spots like JBR Beach or Kite Beach, it offers a calm atmosphere.
- Accessibility: Easily reached by public transport to beach areas.
If you enjoy long strolls and photography, this is your go-to spot.
7. Secret Beach (Al Sufouh Beach / Black Palace Beach)
Location: Between Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab
Also called Secret Beach Sufouh, this hidden quiet spot is often labeled a “local secret.”
- Facilities: Minimal, so carry water and snacks.
- Nature: Soft sands, crystal blue waters, and fewer crowds.
- Views: Overlook both the Palm and the Burj Al Arab skyline.
It’s especially beautiful during Hidden Beach Sunrise, when the calm water glows in golden hues.
8. Jebel Ali Beach
Location: South of Dubai Marina, near Jebel Ali Palm
Adventurous travelers will love Jebel Ali, a wide-open expanse perfect for camping, kitesurfing, and fishing.
- Atmosphere: Less crowded, more natural.
- Activities: Kitesurfing, long walks, and overnight camping.
- Note: Limited amenities, so it’s best for self-sufficient explorers.
This is where you’ll find one of Dubai’s last remaining untouched coastline stretches.
9. Sunset Mall Beach
Location: Jumeirah 3, behind Sunset Mall
This cozy beach remains under the radar for many tourists.
- Relaxed vibe: Perfect for couples or solo travelers seeking tranquility.
- Accessibility: Combine beach time with mall shopping and dining.
- Quiet charm: A favorite hidden quiet spot among locals.
If you’re staying in the area, it’s a convenient option with easy facilities and free access.
10. Palm Jumeirah Beaches (Hotel & Resort Access)
Location: Palm Jumeirah Island
For luxury seekers, the beaches of Palm Jumeirah are unparalleled.
- Day pass access: Hotels like Atlantis The Palm, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, and Waldorf Astoria allow non-guests to purchase passes.
- Facilities: Infinity pools, cabanas, spas, and water sports.
- Family options: Aquaventure Waterpark and supervised kids’ clubs.
Here, you can sip cocktails with a Palm Jumeirah view or dive into exclusive luxury experiences.
Best Time to Visit Dubai Beaches
- October to April: Ideal beach season (25–30°C), perfect for outdoor activities.
- May to September: Hotter months, so visit early morning or after sunset.
Tip: Beaches get busiest on weekends. For a quieter experience, use a Wanderlog map to plan weekday visits.
Facilities at Dubai Beaches
Most public beaches are equipped for comfort and safety:
- Free foot wash facilities, showers, and changing rooms.
- Lifeguard towers manned daily.
- Beachfront restaurants and cafes for quick bites.
- Loungers, umbrellas, and cabanas for rent.
Careem bikes stations near major beaches.
Beach Etiquette & Tips
- Swimwear rules: Only at beaches and pools; cover up elsewhere.
- Safety: Always follow lifeguard instructions.
- Parking: Avoid fines from stealthy parking wardens by sticking to official parking or ample underground parking facilities.
Respect nature: Protect marine life and keep beaches clean.
Final Thoughts
Dubai’s coastline is a diverse mix of buzzing hubs like Kite Beach and JBR Beach, tranquil escapes like Hidden Beach and Secret Beach, and luxurious resorts on Palm Jumeirah. Whether you’re visiting for a sporty adventure, family picnic, or a serene sunrise photography spot, these family friendly beaches Dubai offers guarantee an unforgettable seaside experience.
FAQs About Dubai Beaches
1. Which beach is better in Dubai?
The best beach depends on what you are looking for.
- For families: JBR Beach and Al Mamzar Beach Park are excellent choices because they offer kids’ play areas, lifeguards, and family-friendly facilities.
- For water sports: Kite Beach is the most popular, with kite surfing, paddleboarding, and jogging tracks.
- For quiet escapes: Secret Beach (Al Sufouh) and Hidden Beach are calm and less crowded.
- For luxury: Palm Jumeirah resort beaches provide day-pass access to exclusive facilities.
2. Which Dubai beach has the clearest water?
The clearest waters can be found at:
- Sunset Beach (Umm Suqeim), especially in the early morning.
- Secret Beach Sufouh, where fewer crowds keep the water pristine.
- Hidden Beach Sunrise, which is particularly stunning at dawn.
3. Are Dubai beaches free?
Yes, many beaches in Dubai are completely free to access. Below is a quick overview:
| Free Beaches | Highlights |
|---|---|
| JBR Beach | Family-friendly, shopping, dining, water sports |
| Kite Beach | Active sports, food trucks, jogging track |
| Sunset Beach | Quiet, scenic, ideal for photography |
| La Mer | Trendy, cafes, shopping, colorful murals |
| Secret Beach | Hidden, natural, with views of Palm Jumeirah |
Some beaches, such as Al Mamzar Beach Park, charge a small entry fee, while private beaches at Palm Jumeirah require paid day-pass access.
4. Which Dubai beach has the best views?
- Jumeirah Public Beach offers the iconic backdrop of the Burj Al Arab.
- Sunset Beach is known for beautiful golden-hour views.
- JBR Beach provides views of Ain Dubai and Bluewaters.
- Secret Beach has striking panoramas of both the Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah.
5. Is Jumeirah Beach free?
Yes, Jumeirah Public Beach is a free public beach. It includes showers, toilets, and free foot wash areas. Visitors can also enjoy jogging and cycling tracks along Jumeirah Beach Road, with easy access via public transport.
6. What is the most beautiful place in Dubai?
Many visitors consider Dubai’s beaches among its most beautiful attractions. Notable examples include:
- Burj Al Arab Beach, with its world-famous backdrop.
- Palm Jumeirah view, best enjoyed from beach resorts.
- La Mer, with its mix of art, dining, and lifestyle.
- Secret Beach and Hidden Beach, for natural beauty and quiet surroundings.
Beyond the beaches, landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Creek, and the futuristic Marsa al Arab Hotel project are also regarded as some of Dubai’s most beautiful places.