Dubai

Beaches

There are a few good beaches to choose from in Dubai. Remember to act accordingly. You can wear swimwear of course, but don't be overly affectionate with your partner, and don't expect to find any bars along the beach as alcohol is banned in public places.

Jumeirah Beach is a very popular beach – due in part to the Burj Al Arab hotel – located around a 20-minute drive from the centre. It doesn't get too crowded however, apart from on a Thursday evening and Friday, which is the weekend in Dubai. The beach has barbeque facilities, lifeguards and parking spaces. The shallow waters are ideal for children if you are on a family holiday in Dubai.

Mamzar Beach is within the Mamzar Park – a lush and large park with cycle hire and play areas – so you have to pay to get in. However, it's a great place to spend the day as it has all kinds of tourist amenities, including chalet rental for when the baking sun gets too much, barbeque facilities and snack shops. Beaches in Dubai are shallow, apart from Jemeirah Beach, which does have waves on windy days – great for windsurfing.

Jebel Ali is around 40 kms from the centre of Dubai. This is actually a resort district, so has other amenities, such as luxury apartments, golf and shopping centres, as well as the home of the infamous Palm Island development.