Dubai

JBR Beach is a lively urban stretch where soft sand meets calm waters, perfect for a day by the sea. The beach is lined with cafés and restaurants, and there’s plenty to keep active visitors busy, from banana boat rides and an outdoor gym to a volleyball court. Skyscrapers tower behind the shore, giving the area a uniquely Dubai vibe, and a short stroll brings you to The Walk or across the pedestrian bridge to Bluewaters Island.

Discover Dubai’s laid-back beach scene at Kite Beach in Umm Suqeim, a favourite for water sports enthusiasts and families alike. Swim, surf, or paddleboard in calm blue waters with the Burj Al Arab as your backdrop, or stay on shore and explore the jogging track, skate park, and kids’ play areas. Food trucks and casual cafés line the beach, with local favourite Salt serving up its cult-status sliders just steps from the sand.

La Mer brings a touch of urban cool to Jumeirah 1, with its palm-lined boardwalks, colourful street art, and 2.5km of golden sand. Spend the day relaxing by the water, browsing stylish boutiques, or sampling the eclectic mix of restaurants and cafés that line the promenade.

True to its name, Sunset Beach is one of Dubai’s best spots to watch the sun dip below the horizon, with the iconic Burj Al Arab in the backdrop. It’s also one of the city’s top surfing spots when the waves are right, as well as a favourite for morning jogs, evening strolls, or simply relaxing on the sand.

Palm West Beach brings together beachside leisure and city energy along a 1.6km stretch of sand. The promenade is lined with restaurants and casual hangouts, where you can linger over breakfast, stop for a coffee between swims, or watch the skyline glow at sunset. There’s space for morning runs and paddleboarding sessions, as well as spots to just sit back and take in the view of Dubai Marina and JBR across the water.

Perched on the 50th floor of The Palm Tower, AURA Skypool offers a 360-degree panorama of Dubai from its infinity pool. Nature-inspired décor and open-air design create an elevated oasis, while the poolside menu of Pan-Asian dishes complements the skyline views.