Abu Dhabi’s location on the Arabian Gulf ensures that you’re able to enjoy the region’s most beautiful stretches of sand and scenery during a stay.
There are dozens of beaches to choose from, so you’ll never be far away from golden sands. There’s a great selection of public beaches with changing facilities, cafes and sun loungers for a relaxing rest – as well as private clubs for added peace and quiet. Many Abu Dhabi hotels even offer access to their very own stretches of sun-kissed paradise.
Find your spot and choose how to make the most of it. Sink into a good book as you sunbathe or take the family for an exciting afternoon on the beach.
No visit to Abu Dhabi is complete without sinking your feet into the sands of the Corniche beach, which arc around the waterfront close to the Emirates Palace and Marina Mall.
Dotted with palm trees and pretty green spaces, the Corniche beach also offers the chance to play football and volleyball – and is a great spot for swimming and water sports.
The beach has three different segments, so you can pick which part of the sand suits your mood and plans. There’s one gate that offers free access and is ideal for large groups or solo sun-seekers. Other are more suited to families who want to relax, with umbrellas and sun loungers for hire. There’s also a quiet area for those who want sun-kissed solitude.
Enjoy one of Abu Dhabi’s secluded seaside spots with a trip to Saadiyat Beach Club. This exclusive facility sits on beautiful Saadiyat Beach and offers a more private experience.
Refresh yourself with a swim in the club’s outdoor pool before heading for a bite to eat at one of the resort’s lounges and restaurants, where you can pick from Mediterranean meals, fine dining or even the bookish charm of the peaceful Library Lounge.
Bask in the wonderful white sands of the private beach from the comfort of a cabana or lounger. You might even spot dolphins in the nearby waters – as well as hawksbill turtles who make their nests in this protected landscape.
Yas Island is a vibrant hub of entertainment and its sandy shore complements the nearby attractions perfectly.
Stroll along the waterfront and you’ll stumble on a mouthwatering selection of restaurants, private chalets with great views over the Arabian Gulf and plenty of family-friendly fun.
Brush up on your beach volleyball or flex your muscles on the outdoor gym equipment before going for a swim. You can also take to the cool waters aboard a kayak to glide past mangroves or enjoy the adrenaline rush of a jet ski ride.
If you’re staying in a Yas Island hotel, access to this beach and its attractions is free of charge.
No matter which beach in Abu Dhabi you choose, you’ll find acres of unspoilt sandy shores waiting for you. Mix in your me-time with a host of fine restaurants, great family attractions and some of the city’s most beautiful nature-filled views.
The Corniche Beach stretches along the waterfront for more than a mile from Emirates Palace in the south. Corniche Street itself connects to the E10 in the north – and is only about a half-hour drive from Abu Dhabi International Airport.
Access to Saadiyat Beach Club is via Shati Al Sa’diyat St. Access this by turning off the E12 at Al Dhiba St.
Head to Yas Island and then follow the signs to the beach from Yas Plaza, turning off Yas Dr Street here.
Some beaches do have a dress code – check the details in advance to be certain. One or two piece bathing suits should be suitable – as are shorts. Men and women should wear a top while away from the beach.
It might be a good idea to change when you arrive, as most beaches have clean and spacious facilities to allow for this.
Some of Abu Dhabi’s beaches have an entrance fee, while others are free of charge. Gate 4 allows free access to the Corniche, for example.
The admission fee for exclusive beach clubs usually covers things such as towel and lounger hire.
Yes, swimming is allowed at Abu Dhabi’s Blue Flag beaches. The waters beside the Corniche Beach have floating barriers at the 40-metre mark, so you can’t stray away from the watchful eye of the beach’s well-manned lifeguard patrol.
Abu Dhabi’s public beaches generally have seasonal opening hours. During the winter months the beaches tend to open at 7am and close at sunset. In the summer you can head for the beach from 6am to sunset.
Times vary on private beaches, so check with individual resorts for more information.
Abu Dhabi’s beaches are at their busiest at the weekends. You should still find plenty of choice and space whenever you go, however.
Yas Beach opens at 10 am – arrive early to maximise your perfect day at the beach.
Select your spot and make use of the changing facilities before beginning with a swim. Take to the crystal clear waters of the Arabian Gulf, or search out the infinity pool.
When you’ve dried off, join in a game of volleyball on the beach or recline on a lounger and get lost in a good book until lunchtime.
Then take a cooling shower and change back into your day clothes for a bite to eat. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from here – serving everything from Mexican feasts to succulent steaks and Arabian delicacies.
In the afternoon, it’s time for an adventure. Hire a jet ski for a high speed rush or take a kayak trip through the mangroves to appreciate some of the area’s natural beauty.
After that, relax on the sand until you’re ready for an evening meal.
Yas Mall offers a multi-screen cinema, massive soft play area and more than 200 stores featuring the world’s most popular brands. A great day out for the whole family.
Discover more
This Yas Island theme park is home to record-breaking rides, including the world’s fastest rollercoaster.
Enjoy a round of golf with friends at the Yas Links Golf Course. With stunning views of the gulf and a world class course to boot, it's a must visit for golf fans visiting Abu Dhabi.
All imagery provided by © Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi
