Abu Dhabi is more than just its impressive architecture and exciting, world-class events. The cosmopolitan capital city of the UAE also happens to have several beaches.
Although the glamorous hotels have some of the most spectacular pools, nothing can compare to the dreamy appeal of the best beach in Abu Dhabi.
Does Abu Dhabi Have Good Beaches?
The capital is home to some of the most stunning beaches this side of the globe, many featuring long stretches of powdery white sand, turquoise waters and exceptional services. With great beach weather to enjoy in April or May, an urban beach holiday in Abu Dhabi during those months (or anytime it isn’t overly hot) is a must.
You can also expect variety. From private, luxury beaches to women-only beaches, you’ll find the perfect destination for sun, sand, and surf.
You can access beaches from the city’s shoreline, through hotels, and even from an island.
For example, Saadiyat Beach Club is located in an idyllic natural island that has been developed as a tourism and cultural hub. Saadiyat Island features upscale hotels, residential areas and exceptional cultural centres. The beach club itself is Blue Flag certified, which means that the beach has met the Foundation for Environmental Education’s standards for environmental management.
So does Abu Dhabi have good beaches? It certainly does, and more.
How To Customise Your Beach Day in Abu Dhabi
There’s nothing wrong with grabbing your straw bag and hat, and then heading to the beach. It is the kind of day you don’t want to fuss over. You’re supposed to relax, after all.
Of course, there’s something to be said for planning the day out to make the most of it.
Consider the following tips to ensure a perfect day at the beach.
Know the dress code
If you’re new to the city or just visiting, you must familiarise yourself with dress codes. What do you wear to the beach in Abu Dhabi?
The general rule is modesty and respect for local tradition. Too much skin exposure is deemed indecent. Bikinis, thongs, and swim briefs are not acceptable except in private beaches.
Follow these general guidelines:
- Women can wear a loose fitting garment that does not show curves prominently.
- A full length burkini is ideal
- A one-piece suit that covers the backside is acceptable.
- Men can wear knee-length shorts with a shirt.
Although these dress codes are not strictly enforced at the beaches, locals may be offended and call security, at which point, you may be asked to modify your beachwear.
Dress for the beach appropriately, and you’ll have a relaxing day.
Choose your beach.
Some beaches in Abu Dhabi are meant for families, while others are for people who love to party by the shore. Then there are beaches designed for tranquillity and absolute relaxation. Most beaches in Abu Dhabi have adequate facilities, including changing rooms, cabanas, showers, sunbeds and umbrellas.
If you’re taking the family with you, a family-appropriate beach is the right choice. Some beaches in Abu Dhabi do have spaces for all types of visitors.
The Corniche beach, for example, has three sections for different beachgoers: Gate 1 for singles and big groups, and Gate 2 (which features quiet zones) and Gate 3 for kids and families.
When headed to the beach with just the ladies, make your way to a women’s only beach, like Al Bateen Ladies Beach, or schedule your day out on ladies’ day, like in Kai Beach. With these beaches, you can swim, get a tan, and have drinks with your friends in a secure space.
Book a spa treatment.
A beach holiday is an excellent way to destress. Intensify that effect with massage therapy, detoxifying treatment or a calming facial. A spa treatment along with your beachside relaxation is the perfect treat, whether you’re on your own or with friends.
Many private beaches in Abu Dhabi offer spa treatments. At Saadiyat Beach Club, for example, you can book an hour’s worth of massage and full body treatment or do a 30-minute facial and body scrub.
Instead of heading home after your spa treatment, you can simply walk to the beach and take a dip or lounge for an hour or two, taking in a gorgeous view of the Arabian Gulf.
Make dinner reservations.
Another way to cap off your beach excursion is to savour an unforgettable meal. Abu Dhabi has an impressive 46 restaurants with Michelin stars, many are located in hotels and a few are quite near private beaches.
St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort has several exquisite dining options, one of which is Mazi, a Michelin-selected Mediterranean restaurant. The hotel features a 9-kilometre eco-protected, golden sandy beach, so you can walk over to the restaurant after sunning and swimming.
Many of the Greek-inspired dishes at the Michelin-starred restaurant can be shared.
If you want your dinner to be a bit more casual, there are also plenty of options, from family-friendly Italian dining to Jamaican food and burger places.
Charter a private yacht.
When you arrange a trip to the beach, you’ll want to take up the entire day. Otherwise, the whole excursion feels a bit lacking.
An entire day at the beach deserves arrival in style. What could be more stylish than a private yacht tour that takes you to a private beach?
Some hotels in Abu Dhabi offer the luxury experience in which you’ll spend a day out in the ocean, fishing onboard or riding jet skis. You can enjoy the opulence of a superyacht for three to five hours, and dock at your preferred destination to end your day at the beach of your choice.
On a yacht, you can cruise, swim and relax, all while an experienced crew takes care of your every need.
Make It a Beach Day
Abu Dhabi is a cosmopolitan city with jaw-dropping architecture and glamorous lifestyles that you wouldn’t think of the UAE capital as a beach destination. But it’s an excellent destination for beach holidays, so make a day of it.
Curate your day, from arranging a spa treatment to booking a yacht tour. With a customised plan, you’re sure to have the most remarkable day at a beach in Abu Dhabi.
