Spending a day at the beach is one of the best ways for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors in the UAE. With its warm climate and stunning coastline, the country offers a variety of beaches designed for families, from calm swimming areas to spacious playgrounds.
At Remitly, we understand that settling into the UAE comes with exploring ways to get to know the country with your family. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you find the top family-friendly beaches in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other locations around the UAE, as well as some tips for enjoying your time at the beach.
Discovering family-friendly beaches in the UAE
With year-round sunshine, warm waters, and stunning coastlines, the UAE is a paradise for beach lovers. A day at the beach is a perfect way to unwind, explore, and enjoy quality time for all ages.
Choosing the right beach for your family
Not all beaches in the UAE are the same. Some are relaxed public beaches, while others are private resorts or beach clubs with extra perks like pools, cabanas, and kids’ clubs. If you have young children, look for beaches with gentle waves, shaded play areas, and lifeguards on duty.
For older children and teens, spots with paddleboarding, kayaking, or volleyball courts can add to the excitement. Easy access to toilets, changing facilities, and nearby cafés or restaurants also makes a big difference when planning a day at the beach.
What to expect at family-friendly beaches
Many of the UAE’s beaches are designed with families in mind, offering showers, changing rooms, and walkways that make them accessible for prams and wheelchairs. Some beaches even have dedicated play areas, splash zones, and inflatable water parks, ensuring hours of fun for kids.
While the little ones build sandcastles or splash in the sea, parents can relax on sun loungers, sip a refreshing drink, or enjoy a beachside meal. Whether you’re looking for a quiet day by the water or an action-packed adventure, the UAE’s beaches provide the perfect setting for a memorable family day out.
Dubai’s best family-friendly beaches
In Dubai, you’ll find iconic shorelines that combine scenic views with family-centred fun. From well-known staples like Jumeirah Beach to trendier spots like La Mer, the emirate has truly embraced a family-first ethos.
Jumeirah Beach: Relaxed vibes and iconic views
Jumeirah Beach is a classic favourite for families, thanks to its soft white sand, shallow waters, and easy-going atmosphere. Kids can spend hours building sandcastles, paddling in the sea, or playing along the wide shoreline, while parents relax under the sun.
With cafés and kiosks nearby, it’s easy to grab a quick snack or a refreshing drink. Plus, the beach is just a stone’s throw from Dubai’s famous landmarks, making it easy to mix in a bit of sightseeing with your beach day.
Kite Beach: Active fun for all ages
If your family loves water sports and outdoor activities, Kite Beach is the perfect spot. It’s a hotspot for kitesurfing, but there’s plenty more to do if you prefer to stay on land.
Kids can burn off energy at the playground, jump on trampolines, or ride bikes along the jogging track, while older children and teens might enjoy beach volleyball or paddleboarding. You can also find food trucks and coffee shops that serve everything from fresh juices to gourmet burgers, making it an easy all-around choice for an active family day out.
La Mer: Trendy beachside fun with a splash of culture
For a beach day with a stylish twist, La Mer combines an urban atmosphere with family-friendly fun. The pastel-coloured streets, quirky street art, and beachfront beanbags give it a laid-back yet modern vibe.
Children can splash around in the interactive fountains or play in the sand, while parents enjoy beachfront dining with everything from casual bites to high-end restaurants.
Abu Dhabi’s family beach options
While Dubai often steals the spotlight for its beaches, Abu Dhabi offers a more peaceful and laid-back seaside experience. The capital’s beaches are ideal for those who want a quieter alternative to the bustling shores of Dubai.
Saadiyat Beach: Natural beauty and safe swimming
If you’re looking for a stunning, unspoiled beach, Saadiyat Beach is a top choice. Famous for its soft white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters, this beach is a haven for nature lovers and families alike.
Strict environmental protection efforts have been implemented in the area, which is home to sea turtles and other marine life, making it an exciting spot for kids who love wildlife. Also, the gentle waves and lifeguarded swimming areas provide peace of mind for parents, away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Corniche Beach: A lively seafront with family zones
Stretching along Abu Dhabi’s picturesque waterfront, Corniche Beach is a great option for families who enjoy a mix of beach fun and city convenience. The dedicated family zones ensure a safe and comfortable experience, while the playgrounds, shady walkways, and nearby cafés make it easy to spend the whole day here.
You can rent sun loungers or bring your own beach setup. With bathrooms, rinse-off stations, and snack bars nearby, everything you need is within reach. The Corniche promenade also offers a great spot for a stroll after enjoying the beach or a bike ride with your kids.
Al Bateen Beach: Calm waters and picnic spots
Another gem in the capital, Al Bateen Beach is known for its peaceful surroundings and soft, shallow waters. It’s ideal if you have small children who love to paddle and splash.
Families can set up a picnic on the sand, use the barbecue areas, or relax under shaded benches to escape the midday sun. Compared to other beaches in Abu Dhabi, Al Bateen feels more secluded, making it a great spot for families to unwind and enjoy a peaceful afternoon by the water.
Family-friendly beaches in other emirates
Beyond the glitz of Dubai and the calm of Abu Dhabi, other emirates have some fantastic beaches worth exploring. Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot to unwind or a new adventure by the sea, there’s something for every family.
Ajman Beach: Relaxed atmosphere with children’s play areas
Ajman may be the smallest emirate, but its beaches are big on charm. This beach is a great pick if you’re after a quieter, more relaxed setting where kids can run free. With its soft sands, gentle waves, and children’s play areas, it’s an easy spot to spend the day without the busy atmosphere of bigger city beaches.
Since public transport options are limited, it’s best to reach Ajman Beach by car or taxi. For families with little ones, the beach offers a calm atmosphere with shaded picnic spots and child-friendly facilities.
You’ll also find lifeguard-monitored swimming areas and clean restrooms nearby. Some beachfront hotels even offer day passes, so you can enjoy pools, kids’ clubs, and restaurants without staying overnight.
Fujairah Beach: Snorkelling, sea life, and family-friendly resorts
Fujairah, on the UAE’s east coast, offers a completely different beach experience where the mountains meet the sea. It’s one of the best places in the country for snorkelling and diving, with coral reefs and marine life that older kids and teens will love exploring.
If your little ones prefer to stay on land, many resorts here offer family-friendly packages, with pools, kids’ clubs, and plenty of space to relax. Since Fujairah is about a 90-minute drive from Dubai, the best way to get there is by car or organised shuttle services from hotels.
Families will appreciate well-maintained facilities, including changing rooms, restrooms, and shaded areas at many resort beaches. Some resorts even provide equipment rentals for paddleboarding and kayaking, so there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.
Ras Al Khaimah: All-inclusive family resorts by the beach
If you’re looking for a family beach escape that mixes both tranquillity and adventure for all of the family to enjoy, then Ras Al Khaimah is ideal. The emirate is home to long, sandy beaches and all-inclusive resorts where kids can have fun in pools while you unwind by the sea. But if you prefer action-packed days, you can find plenty to do in Ras Al Khaimah, like zip-lining, desert treks, and water sports.
It’s a family-friendly location for families who like to combine beach time with new experiences, all just a short drive from Dubai. However, public transport options are limited, so the easiest way to visit is by car or by booking a stay at a beachfront resort that offers shuttle services.
Many hotels and beach clubs cater to families, offering supervised kids’ clubs, splash zones, and shallow swimming areas. Parents can enjoy spa treatments while kids take part in fun outdoor activities like beach games and guided nature walks.
Tips for a stress-free family beach day
A simple beach trip can feel like a mini-holiday when you’re well-prepared. With the right essentials and a bit of planning, you can make sure the whole family enjoys a fun and hassle-free day by the sea.
Essential beach items to pack for families
The UAE sun is strong, so pack plenty of sun cream, hats, and extra towels. Remember to stay hydrated by bringing plenty of water, and if there aren’t many food options nearby, a light picnic with easy snacks will keep everyone happy.
It also helps to have a small first-aid kit handy for minor scrapes, and if you have young kids or less confident swimmers, bring flotation aids. If your children are very small, classic beach toys like buckets, spades, or a simple ball can go a long way.
Keeping kids safe at the beach
Most UAE beaches are family-friendly, but it’s always important to keep an eye on little ones near the water. Stick to designated swimming areas, as these often have lifeguards on duty. If you’re planning boat rides or water sports, check the age requirements and make sure life jackets are available.
Best times to visit UAE beaches with family
For a pleasant experience, aim to visit beaches during cooler months between November and March, when the temperatures are more comfortable. Weekdays also tend to be quieter and give your family more space to enjoy yourselves. If you do visit in the hotter season, consider early mornings or late afternoons, and check local beach usage guidelines.
Also, keep an eye out for family-friendly events and seasonal activities. During the cooler months, some spots like JBR Beach and Kite Beach host outdoor movie nights, weekend markets, and live entertainment.
For families looking for extra fun, inflatable water parks pop up at select locations, offering obstacle courses and floating playgrounds for kids. Water sports, kayaking, and guided snorkelling tours are also more widely available in winter when conditions are ideal. Checking local beach calendars can help you discover local activities that turn your family beach day into an opportunity to appreciate local culture.
Beach etiquette and cultural considerations
While the UAE’s beaches are welcoming and family-friendly, it’s good to be mindful of local customs. At public beaches, modest swimwear is generally expected, and some locations may have stricter dress codes.
Certain beaches also have family-only days or designated areas where single visitors may not be permitted. Littering is taken seriously, so always use the provided bins to keep the beaches clean.
If you’re visiting during peak times, be considerate of others by keeping noise levels low and avoiding reserved seating areas at beach clubs. By respecting local etiquette, you can enjoy a stress-free family beach day.
FAQs
Which is the best beach in the UAE for families with young kids?
Jumeirah Beach and Kite Beach in Dubai are top choices for families with young children. Both have shallow waters, lifeguard-monitored swim areas, and play zones. Corniche Beach is another great option, offering shaded areas, a promenade, and even pools for little ones.
Are there free family-friendly beaches in Dubai?
Yes. Many of Dubai’s best family-friendly beaches, including Kite Beach, JBR Beach, and Al Bateen Beach in Abu Dhabi, are free to access. They offer clean facilities, play areas, and family-friendly atmospheres. Some hotels and private beach clubs require an entry fee but provide extra amenities like pools and kids’ clubs.
What’s the best time to visit beaches in the UAE with kids?
The best beach weather is from November to March, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable. If visiting in summer, go early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the peak heat. Some beaches also host seasonal events like outdoor movie nights, markets, and inflatable water parks, making winter the best time for a fun-filled beach trip.
Are there any cultural rules I should follow at UAE beaches?
Yes, at public beaches, modest swimwear is generally expected, and some beaches may have dress codes. Certain beaches have family-only days. Remember that it’s important to throw away rubbish properly. Noise should be kept at a respectful level, especially on more relaxed beaches.