Looking to take the kids for a day on the sand? Well, lucky you, because Dubai has been crowned as the second-most family-friendly beach destination in the world. Because, where else has camel rides and the largest inflatable waterpark in the world!
Research by Insure My Trip showed that Dubai had the second highest family-friendly rating in the world, with Costa Rica bagging the top spot.
Looking at everything from average sea temperature (no one wants to take a chilly dip) and the cost of water activities and attractions, the research also checked the cleanliness and safety of the sea.
If you like reading this: Eid al Adha 2024: Expected dates for five-day summer weekend revealed
Scoring 10 out of 10 on safety, Dubai’s water parks and family-friendly attractions also helped secure the silver medal.
Coming in just behind Dubai, Australia’s Gold Coast took third place, with France, Corsica and Sri Lanka also named in the top 10.
The impressive rating comes as Dubai’s beaches are about to get even better, with the announcement of more night swimming areas, beach cycle tracks and designated ladies-only beaches.
Confirmed by HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum as part of the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033.
The goal for the directive is to ensure that all Dubai residents can access essential services within a 20-minute journey, whether it be green space, entertainment or community hubs.
So, if you want to hit the beach for a sun-kissed swim — early morning, late evening, or even at night — here are some of Dubai’s top family-friendly beaches to try.
Kite Beach
Popular for a reason, Kite Beach has everything for all the family. As well as mini-bungee jumping, padel courts and a running track, you can even try out a spot of paddle-boarding while you’re there.
If you just want to make sandcastles and eat good food, you can stop in to any one of the selection of cafes and grab a bagel from Circle Cafe or an ice lolly from the stands along the beachfront.
And if that’s not enough, send the kids off to clamber over some inflatable obstacles at the Aqua Parks Leisure waterpark.
Free. Off Street 5a, behind Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqeim, kitebeach.ae (800 637 227).
JBR Beach
Stretching along JBR, the beach has the world’s largest inflatable waterpark open to all the family, as well as incredible views over to Bluewaters Island and Ain Dubai.
If the little ones are getting peckish, check out any of the beachfront restaurants from the Cheesecake Factory to Aprons & Hammers. You might even spot camels walking up and down the beach as they take visitors for a stroll along the sea.
Free. The Beach, opposite JBR, thebeach.ae (800 637 227).
Ness Nass Beach
Set your towel down and watch the kite surfers at Nessnass beach as they work the waves. Or, head to the left side of the bay and enjoy a sunbathe and a dip away from the sails at this popular family-friendly spot.
If hunger strikes, head to Common Grounds café and grab some avocado on toast or kale and mushroom scramble along with a special ‘Nessnass shake’. Ready to head back to the water? Why not try something more adventurous with a spot of kayaking or body boarding.
Nessnass Street, behind Sunset Mall.
Umm Suqeim Beach
Tucked behind Umm Suqeim park, you can have a day on the grass and on the sand at Sunset/Umm Suqeim Beach.
Offering up some lovely vistas all the way down the coast towards Burj Al Arab, there’s even a built-in running track, and an adorable Arabian Tea House if you want to grab some lunch. There are changing rooms and public toilets nearby too for when you need them.
If you want to dip out of the sun, check out the quirky Book Hero Café, pick up a fresh brew and browse the second-hand novels.
2C Street, Umm Suqeim.
Looking for more Dubai news?
Grab your gal pals – new women-only beaches in Dubai are coming
Night swimming areas will also be extended
Could flights from Dubai to Australia with flydubai be on the cards?
flydubai has spoken
Eid al Adha 2024: Expected dates for five-day summer weekend revealed
It’s time to start making plans
