On my recent trip to Dubai, I realised that one of my favorite beaches, La Mer Beach, was under some redevelopments and was told by locals that the cafes and attractions in La Mer South were undergoing change. That meant that the shops were closed and alot of south side was not accessible however the beach itself was still open and it was surprisingly busy even without all the shops.
While it was great for relaxing, we set out to explore more beaches Dubai has to offer. In this guide we take you though some amazing must-see Dubai beaches and review what makes them special.
Al Mamzar Beach Park - Family Friendly Dubai Beach
If you’re looking for one of Dubai’s most well-rounded and budget-friendly beach destinations, Al Mamzar Beach Park is a hidden gem. It's located in Deira, near the Sharjah border, and it's joint into a 106-hectare park with five white-sand beaches, landscaped gardens, and a range of family-friendly facilities.
Pricing
For just AED 5 per person (or AED 30 per vehicle), you gain access to shaded picnic spots, two public swimming pools, BBQ areas, jogging and cycling tracks, and even a mini train ride for kids. It's ideal for families, couples, or anyone who wants a relaxed, all-day beach escape without spending much at all.
What's there
The park is especially great for group outings, with rentable chalets available (starting from AED 150) that offer privacy, air conditioning, and direct beach access. Amenities like showers, changing rooms, loungers, umbrellas, and food kiosks are also available throughout the park.
But it's worth mentioning that this isn't a beach park for shopping. There aren't highstreet shops here, the best you can get are small kiosk style fronts that offer cool drinks, snacks and ice cream.
If you're feeling adventurous, jet skis are available for rent on-site, and there are football and volleyball courts for sporty visitors.
Al Mamzar Beach Park is open from 8 AM to 10 PM Sunday through Wednesday and until 11 PM on weekends. Mondays and Wednesdays are exclusively for ladies and children, making it a safe and inclusive option for all. The best time to visit is early morning or just before sunset when the sun is gentler and the park is less crowded.
How to get there
It’s also well connected by public transport—just take the Dubai Metro to Al Qiyadah and grab a quick taxi from there. We did find taking a taxi was the most convenient option, especially if you're staying in Dubai center as it's quite out of the way.
It takes around 20–22 minutes from Downtown Dubai, Deira, or Bur Dubai via the E11/E311 routes when traffic is light, costing about AED 30–40 by taxi depending on location and time of the day.
If you love seeing amazing sunsets, watching planes fly over, and enjoy a more relaxed beach atmosthere, the Al Mamzar Family Friendly Dubai beach park is an excellent choice.
Sunset Beach (Umm Suqeim Beach)
Sunset Beach, also known as Umm Suqeim Beach, is one of Dubai’s most scenic and peaceful coastal spots — famous for its panoramic views of the Burj Al Arab. It's a popular destination for joggers, surfers, and families looking to relax away from the busier beach scenes. You can take surfing lessons or rent boards from Surf House Dubai, enjoy a quiet picnic, or simply go for a peaceful sunset stroll. The beach also features unique nighttime lighting, allowing visitors to swim safely after dark — a rare and magical experience in Dubai. It’s particularly loved by photographers and content creators for its stunning golden hour and night-time photo opportunities.
This is a completely free public beach, open 24/7, with essential facilities that make it easy and convenient to visit. You'll find showers, changing rooms, a jogging track, and lifeguards during the day. There’s no cost to enter or park (though parking can fill up quickly on weekends), and there's no need to book ahead unless you plan to join a surf class or rent equipment nearby. Whether you're visiting solo or with family, it's a simple and budget-friendly place to unwind.
To get to Sunset Beach, you can drive (about 20 minutes from Downtown Dubai) or use public transport. If you're taking the Metro, hop on the Red Line to Mall of the Emirates Station, then catch Bus 81 or F55A toward Umm Suqeim Park. From the bus stop, it’s just a short walk to the beach. There’s also limited free parking on-site if you’re arriving by car. Whether you’re coming for a swim, a run, or just to catch the perfect sunset photo, it’s easy to reach and worth the trip.
JBR Beach (Jumeirah Beach Residence)
JBR Beach is one of Dubai’s most lively and stylish beachfronts, combining relaxation with entertainment in a setting that’s hard to beat. Located right in front of the Jumeirah Beach Residence towers, this beach buzzes with energy—whether you’re sunbathing, swimming in clear waters, or trying out jet skiing, paddleboarding, or parasailing. Along the shoreline is The Walk, a palm-lined promenade filled with street performers, boutique shops, pop-up markets, and open-air movie nights. Families can take advantage of the kids’ splash zones and playgrounds, while fitness fans can use the outdoor gym stations. Whether you’re craving shawarma or sushi, there are dozens of restaurants within walking distance offering global cuisine with a sea view.
The beach itself is free to access and open to everyone, but optional extras are available for those who want a little more comfort or adventure. You can rent sunbeds, umbrellas, or private cabanas for a small fee, and most water sports are pay-as-you-go, with prices varying depending on the activity and provider. There’s even a floating water park during peak seasons, offering obstacle-course fun right on the water. For movie lovers, there's an open-air cinema right by the beach—a unique way to end a day in the sun. While it’s very popular, the space is large enough that you can always find a spot to settle down.
Getting to JBR Beach is straightforward whether you’re using public transport or driving. The nearest metro stations are Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) and DMCC, and from there, you can take the Dubai Tram to JBR 1 or 2, both just a short walk away from the sand. Several bus routes also serve the area, and for those arriving by car, there’s underground and valet parking available directly beneath the promenade. With its blend of beach fun, city energy, and family-friendly features, JBR Beach offers a full day out in one of Dubai’s most iconic coastal neighbourhoods.