Jumeirah Beach

The Basics

Lapped by calm seas, Jumeirah Beach is backed by hotels, shops, and resorts. It commands panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline and landmarks such as the Burj Al Arab hotel. Large stretches are open to all—such as Jumeirah Public Beach and Jumeirah Open Beach—and are popular with families, swimmers, and sports lovers. Picnic areas, playgrounds, shops, and restaurants border many public areas. Facilities include showers, restrooms, and lifeguard stations. The adjacent Jumeirah running track is ideal for beachfront jogs and walks.

Most Dubai tours stop at Jumeirah Public Beach for visitors to take photos and enjoy the stellar view of the Burj Al Arab. Hop-on hop-off buses also stop here, allowing you to disembark and enjoy the beach at leisure. For views of the beach against a backdrop of Dubai’s skyscrapers, head out on a speedboat, Jet Ski, or Flyboard.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Jumeirah’s beaches are must-visits for families, sun worshippers, and water sports lovers.

• Shade is in short supply, so wear a sun hat and plenty of sunscreen.

• Sun beds, umbrellas, and water sports gear can be rented on some public stretches.

• Showers are available on many public beaches; some are free to use and others charge a fee.

• Don’t forget flip-flops. The sands can get very hot underfoot.

How to Get There

Jumeirah Beach extends along Dubai’s Gulf Coast parallel to—but off—the D94, also known as Jumeirah Road or Jumeirah Beach Road. With no metro stations within easy strolling distance of the beaches north of the Palm Jumeirah, accessing the sands is easiest by taxi or hop-on hop-off bus.

When to Get There

Like many Dubai attractions, Jumeirah’s public beaches are busiest Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, particularly during the afternoon and evening. To beat the crowds and heat—especially in late summer—aim to visit as early as possible.

Tips for a Hassle-Free Visit

Most of Jumeirah’s public beaches are free to enter, but expect to pay for nearby parking. If you’re visiting Jumeirah Public Beach, walk along the sands away from the tour bus stops and photo view points where crowds tend to gather.

Ways to explore

No visit to Dubai is complete without visiting Jumeirah Beach and the Burj Al Arab, which rises from its western end. Dubai tours typically pass by the beach for photo opportunities, while many hop-on hop-off buses stop at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, an ideal Burj viewpoint and a short cab ride from the sands.

For time on the beach itself, choose a private tour you can customize to include sunbathing and swimming. Alternatively, see Jumeirah Beach on a yacht, speedboat, or Jet Ski trip—routes skim past the beach and around the Burj. Parasailing and helicopter rides offer aerial views.

Accessibility

Many parts of Jumeirah Beach are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible. Look for areas offering dedicated wheelchair entry points, wheelchair-friendly walkways along the sands and into the water, and even free beach wheelchairs. Particularly accessible stretches include Sunset Beach (Umm Suqeim) and Kite Beach.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Sunscreen, bottled water, towel, phone power bank

What to wear

Swimwear, sarong or kaftan for covering up, flip-flops or water shoes, UV-protective shades

Not allowed

Drinking alcohol, smoking, rude behavior, loud music

Amenities

Restrooms, Wi-Fi in some areas, showers, rental sunbeds

Address

Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Road (D94) runs almost the length of Jumeirah Beach, making getting here by car, ride-sharing service, or cab relatively easy. Some buses stop nearby, while many guided tours include beach stops for photos.

Driving

Head to the Jumeirah Beach Road (D94) and drive along it to find paid parking lots or free street parking.

Public transportation

Buses provide the easiest public transit: lines #8, 81, and 88 stop near Kite Beach; #9 buses stop near more easterly sections. Dubai Metro’s Red Line runs parallel to the beach, but stations are still some distance away.

Best times to visit

Come in early morning to miss the crowds and avoid the hottest hours of the day (11am–3pm). The beach is especially beautiful (and busy) at sunset.

Best days to visit

For a fun and vibrant atmosphere, visit Jumeirah Beach on the weekends (Friday afternoon–Sunday night) when it’s lively. Weekdays are quieter times to visit.

Best months to visit

For pleasant beach weather, visit November through March, when it’s busiest. Dubai’s extreme summer temperatures make beach visits uncomfortable between May and September.

Special events

Kite Beach and Sunset Beach are prime spots for watching the city’s New Year’s fireworks. Special events are also staged during Dubai’s annual December–January Shopping Festival.