Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates in the Persian Gulf, features many beautiful sun-kissed coastlines with top-class shopping and dining destinations.
The city is surrounded by some of the most tranquil stretches of white sand that one can access. There are uber-luxurious private sea shores, too, owned by the world’s top hotel brands, the best place to let your hair loose in style.
Many of these shores are Blue Flag beaches, where the coastal waters are home to innumerable marine and wildlife species, especially Indian humpback dolphins. Other than the aquatic animals, there are islands where hundreds of land animals roam freely on the sandy beaches. We have compiled a list of 11 gems along the city’s coastline.
1. Al Bateen Beach
Al Bateen is one of the best places for families and kids. It is an impressive stretch attracting residents for picnics. The place has earmarked areas for sand football and volleyball. Keen visitors can swim or laze in the sun. Kayaks and jet skis can be hired.
The Hudariyat Island and the Bridge view elevate the visual aesthetics of the coastline. Moreover, there is a dedicated area for women – on the southern tip, though it has an entrance fee. There are women lifeguards in this part.
The beachfront has changing rooms, showers, loungers, bathrooms, sunshades and a few cafes. One of the reasons Al Bateen is so popular is that there is no entry fee to the shore. Also, due to the sustainable initiatives by the Emirates Wildlife Authority, it is a Blue Flag Beach.
Since the sea is pretty calm, paddleboarding is another excellent option. The ideal time to visit this place is about half an hour before sunset to watch the riot of colors on the horizon as the sun dips into the water.
Location: Khaleej Al Arabi Street, Abu Dhabi
2. Saadiyat Beach
Saadiyat is a marvelous strip of white sand dotted with many sunbeds and one cafeteria. Its claim to fame is that it remains the only unaltered shore in the UAE. It is accessible by all, but the ambiance is comparable to any private beach, thanks to the virgin beauty of the place. The shore runs along the northern part of the Saadiyat Island. The entry gate is located to the right of the Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi Hotel and Villas.
The place has a parking capacity of up to 200 cars at a time. The shore grassland alongside the entire front has been converted into an area of natural habitation for hawksbill turtles. The place has multiple access boardwalks to ensure the nested area is well-protected.
There are about 300 sun loungers placed here. Shades or umbrellas can be rented. Other than that, there are changing rooms and showers. There are lifeguards on duty throughout the duration.
Other than lounging in the sun day, you can enjoy kayaking, sailing, and windsurfing. You can cross Mina Zayed and go over the Sheikh Khalifa Bridge to access the place. It takes about 10 minutes to reach the place from the Downtown area.
Location: Shati Al Saadiyat Street, Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
3. Intercontinental Bayshore Beach Club
The InterContinental Abu Dhabi is one of the oldest hotels in Abu Dhabi. A Beach Club along the 300-meter beachfront features a separate kid’s pool and play area, day spa, infinity pool, jacuzzi, sports facilities, and restaurant. Kids can have fun at the waterslide in the kids’ play area.
There are sun-loungers and private cabanas on the white sandy shore. Since it is a private shore, you can laze and enjoy a cool dip in the infinity pool while being served by a dedicated butler. The swim-up bar that overlooks the Arabian Gulf makes it even more cozy and exclusive.
The seashore has numerous water sports choices, with floodlit tennis courts and squash courts on the beach. The club has a modern gym with exclusive areas offering strength and cardio-exercising opportunities.
Location: Al Khubeirah Intercontinental Abu Dhabi
4. Yas Beach
If you have checked into any hotel on Yas Island, especially the Yas Plaza Hotel, you can access the white sandy shore called Yas Beach on a complimentary basis. The crystal clear water surrounded by the natural mangrove is a sight to behold!
The ambiance of the coastal place is pretty laid-place, and you can chill, and sun lounge blissfully with family members in the curtained cabanas. There are multiple restaurants, cafes, food kiosks, one infinity pool, private chalets, and bars where you can let your hair down.
It is one of the most popular beaches in the Emirate. Watersports like jet skiing and kayaking options are also present. You can rent the equipment from the water sports offices present on the spot.
Location: Yas Leisure Dive, Yas Island, Ab Dhabi
5. Corniche Beach
Corniche is one of the best Blue Flag beaches in Abu Dhabi to catch the sunshine all year through. Like all other beaches in the city, this is a 2 km white stretch of land washed by the immaculate turquoise water. Manicured greens and swaying palm trees surround a seaside boardwalk and well-maintained walkways. The view of the Arabian Gulf from the benches is simply breathtaking!
The entire place has three gates for entries – Gate 4, or Al Sahil, is for bigger groups. Visitors can use this gate for free visits to the shore. The second gate, or Gate 2, is best for couples and singles and quieter in all the zones. Gate 3 is the best for families with kids. The zones with access from Gate 2 and Gate 3 are fenced.
All three zones have changing rooms, showers, and cabanas. Umbrellas and loungers can be rented. Trained lifeguards supervise the coastline till sunset. Activities at the shore include trying various sporting activities like football and volleyball, walking along the pedestrian pathway, watching your kids play at the kid’s play zone, going out for a snorkeling dive, or acquainting yourself with the aquatic life.
Location: Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi
6. Al Mirfa Beach
Al Mirfa is a developed beachside in a tiny village called Mirfa. Its name to fame is the famous Al Gharbia Watersports Festival, which is hosted here annually. If you are visiting at other times, you will see the quaint place is relatively quiet. Activities you can try here include surf skiing, kayaking, kiteboarding, and wakeboarding.
Access to the region is via the arterial highway E11, a ninety-minute drive from Downtown Abu Dhabi. The view of the Etihad Rail Train, salt flats, and fossil rocks make this trip truly memorable.
Location: Al Gharbia, Abu Dhabi
7. Beach Rotana
Beach Rotana, a member of the Leading Hotels of the World, is a grand resort and one of the oldest hotels in the Emirate. It has a private beach that is accessible to hotel guests. The place is close to the Abu Dhabi Mall. The hotel has two wings – the Beach Wing, which has rooms with sea views, and the Tower Wing.
For hotel guests and members, entry to the private shore is free. The Beach Club by the waterside features a spa, a fully-equipped gym, tennis and squash courts, and more.
Location: 10th Street, Al Zahiya Area, Abu Dhabi
8. Kai Beach
The seashore is characterized by the luxe feel of white sand under your bare foot, surrounded by the warm turquoise water. A dreamlike backdrop, this 500-meter stretch of sand is one of the best places in Abu Dhabi to relax and unwind. It is the perfect place to laze on the beach lounge chairs while enjoying the stunning view of the sunset.
Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure, Kai Beach has something to offer. Visitors can indulge in sunbathing, swimming in the gentle waves, or simply strolling along the shore while admiring the stunning views. With its natural splendor and peaceful ambiance, Kai Beach promises an unforgettable coastal experience in Abu Dhabi.
Location: Al Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
9. Nation Riviera Beach Club
As a part of the St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Nation Riviera Beach Club is an upscale beach club in the city. Since the club offers annual memberships, it is one of the most frequented places by the natives of Abu Dhabi.
The private seashore is 200 meters long and features a large pool with Jacuzzis and a restaurant. A well-maintained manicured garden surrounding the luxurious place makes this an ideal place to visit. There is a kid’s play area with a pool and dedicated games.
Location: The St. Regis Abu Dhabi, Nation Tower, Corniche, Abu Dhabi
10. Zaya Nurai Island
A boat ride from Saadiyat Island, hardly a few minutes away, is this boutique beach retreat space or island called Zaya Nurai Island. It is about an hour from the Downtown area. The island has luxurious villas, plunge pools, top-end restaurants, and opportunities to indulge in sunset yoga and other rejuvenating treatments. A line of day beds, hammocks, and sun loungers covers the entire place.
Activities range from sunbathing and swimming in the pristine waters to spa treatments and delectable dining options. Zaya Nurai Island is a true tropical oasis where guests can unwind, rejuvenate, and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature.
Location: Nurai Island, Abu Dhabi
11. Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Beach
One of the best places to catch a glimpse of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr beach is a stretch of white sand along the Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Hotel. The resort’s private strip is the best place to explore watersports activities like kayaking. Sunbathing is an everyday indulgence here for guests. There are lots of dining options at the resort. Kids have a separate pool and play area.
Whether lounging under the sun, taking refreshing dips in the turquoise waters, or enjoying watersports activities, visitors are spoiled for choice. The resort offers world-class amenities, including stylish beach cabanas, gourmet dining options, and a serene spa.
Location: Fairmont Bab Al Bahr Hotel, Khor Al Maqta
Conclusion
Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, boasts stunning beaches that enthrall visitors with their beauty and serenity. Abu Dhabi offers a perfect beach getaway with its azure waters, pristine white sands, and year-round sunshine. The city is home to a range of world-class beach resorts that cater to every traveler’s preferences.
From the lively Corniche Beach, where families can enjoy picnics and watersports, to the luxurious Saadiyat Island Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and mesmerizing sunsets, Abu Dhabi’s beaches offer an idyllic escape. Whether you seek relaxation, adventure, or a tranquil spot to unwind, Abu Dhabi’s beaches provide a captivating seaside experience.