The best beaches in Dubai

The Jumeirah Public Beach, lovingly called Nessnass Beach by locals, has become a popular hotspot thanks to its welcoming waters and clean stretch of sand. Whether you’re looking for a laidback day out with the family or want to practice your kitesurfing or windsurfing flips and dips, this is the place to be.

If you’d like to hone your watersports skills, head over to the Kite n Surf kiosk where you can sign up for lessons or equipment rentals for kitesurfing, paddleboarding and kayaking, with group bookings also available. There are some toilets and showers at Nessnass, but it’s not as equipped as other public beaches, such as The Beach at JBR. However, this also adds to Nessnass’s charm, creating a low-key vibe that keeps the city’s residents and visitors coming back for more.

Named after its up-and-coming neighbourhood on the water, Dubai Islands Beach is emerging as the latest spot in the city for a refreshing dip and shoreside entertainment. Located off the coast of Dubai’s older hub – Deira – it is the city’s first fully pet-friendly beach, allowing owners to bring their dogs along for a scenic jog or swim.

Chef Tom Arnel's waterside spot on the shores of Palm Jumeirah takes inspiration from Australian beaches, with a surf-style aesthetic and menu that you can happily graze on all day. Bright, airy interiors complement views of the Arabian Sea, with an easy local neighbourhood vibe that ensures visitors become regulars. Snack on small plates or feast on a selection of mains, with an emphasis on coastal flavours putting the spotlight on seafood and seasonal ingredients.

ULA – which means 'sea jewel' – lives up to its name. Located next to DUKES The Palm, the shoreside spot is a great place to escape for a beach day and a bite to eat. Head over and choose from the inviting lounge areas, pool and beach seating or indoor dining, before settling in to discover a Mediterranean-inspired menu that celebrates the freshest ingredients. The vibe is laidback with upbeat tunes and families and couples enjoying the sunshine by the shore.

Al Mamzar Beach features five pristine beaches for sunbathing or swimming. Before reaching the soft white sand, you'll cross a large section of manicured lawn, with winding foot and bike paths sided by swaying palm trees. Spread over 106 hectares, Al Mamzar includes three stunning pools where families can cool off instead of getting sandy on the shore. For a small fee per person, this expansive park and beach, with lush barbecue areas, landscaped playgrounds, lagoons and a sheltered beach, are perfect for a day out.

You can also rent a sun lounger or even book a private, air-conditioned beach chalet for a more exclusive experience. The beach also holds a ladies-only day on Mondays and Wednesdays, where the park is exclusively reserved for women.

It has all the elements that draw a chic crowd: a prime perch on the pristine Palm Beach West complete with an infinity pool, views of the Dubai Marina skyline and bold boho-chic interiors. And it's all complemented by a creative menu featuring Japanese and Peruvian favourites. Chef Carlo Valentino has put together two separate menus, one catering to those soaking in the sunshine outside with easy-to-eat plates, as well as a more fine dining offering for foodies seated indoors by the open kitchen or at one of the cosy booths.

One of the world’s most glamorous properties, The Bulgari Resort is a Dubai gem. With its pristine private beach and a signature swimming pool, your five-star holiday has never looked so good. Lounge in luxury by the sand or strike a pose at one of the poolside day beds. The resort’s beach restaurant, La Spiaggia, is also a chilled spot for leisurely meals with an Instagrammable backdrop.

Enjoy unparalleled views of the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab set against a backdrop of blue sea and skies at Jumeirah Al Naseem's Summersalt beach club. Housed in one of Dubai’s most luxurious resorts at the Madinat Jumeirah complex, Summersalt has made quite the splash in Dubai’s must-see scene. Here you'll find relaxing loungers, pool and beach access, and delicious cuisine inspired by the spice route. Nearby are popular restaurants like Il Borro Tuscan Bistro and Rockfish, making this beach club one of Dubai’s hottest spots to chill out.

A sunshine-filled spot that will brighten your day, Twiggy by La Cantine is a refreshing beach club and restaurant at Park Hyatt Dubai. Dine by the 100m infinity pool, which has its own menu complete with small plates such as poke bowls, lobster rolls, sushi and caviar, or swap the sun beds for a table on the terrace because the a la carte menu is more than worth it, filled with celebratory Mediterranean dishes.