Abu Dhabi's Beaches: A Coastal Paradise in the Heart of the Capital

Abu Dhabi's beaches are an essential destination for vacation lovers, water sports enthusiasts, and families seeking unforgettable experiences with friends and loved ones. These beaches offer a unique escape from work pressures and daily life, providing psychological comfort through serene views of water, sand, and trees. We’ve compiled a list of the most notable beaches—continue reading to discover them.

List of Abu Dhabi Beaches

Now is the perfect time of year to embark on a journey to Abu Dhabi’s open beaches, where you can enjoy joyful family moments or engage in water sports. If you’re unsure which beach suits your needs, we’ll help you find the ideal one.

Corniche Beach

Looking to enjoy Abu Dhabi’s sunny weather all year round? The Abu Dhabi Corniche is one of the city’s top beach destinations, offering ideal conditions for outdoor activities and scenic beauty. Stroll along the spacious seaside promenade, relax on benches overlooking the stunning Arabian Gulf, and admire breathtaking sunsets while capturing memorable photos. The beach stretches two kilometers and is divided into three main sections:

• Gate 4: Designed for individuals and groups; entry is free
• Gate 2: Family-oriented with a peaceful atmosphere
• Gate 3: Dedicated to families and children

Notably, Gates 2 and 3 are surrounded by fences, offering added privacy for visitors. Amenities at the Corniche include:

• Bathing areas
• Changing rooms
• Private cabins
• Beach chair rentals (25 AED per chair)
• Beach umbrellas
• Lifeguards until sunset
• Children’s play area
• Dedicated bike and pedestrian paths
• Free fitness facilities featuring:
  • 5 volleyball courts
  • 2 football fields
  • 3 multi-purpose courts
• Boat rental options
• Snorkeling and marine life exploration activities
• A variety of nearby restaurants and cafes

This Blue Flag-certified beach boasts natural beauty, including pristine turquoise waters, scenic views of Pearl Island, and palm trees and green gardens that enhance the overall experience.

• Location: Al Bateen
• Entry fees
  • Adults: 10 AED
  • Children (5–12 years): 5 AED
  • Children under 5: Free

Al Saadiyat Public Beach

Al Saadiyat Beach is among Abu Dhabi’s most beautiful and popular beaches in the UAE, renowned for its soft white sands and clear turquoise waters stretching along the coast. It offers a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and serves as a hub for diverse beach activities such as beach yoga, eco-friendly water sports like windsurfing and sailing, and relaxing in elegant surroundings. Professional staff ensure guest comfort, making it a perfect place to unwind.

• Wooden boardwalk leading to the beach
• Chairs and sunshades for lounging
• Shower and changing facilities
• Nearby restaurants and cafes
• Clean restrooms
• Trained monitors dedicated to environmental and wildlife protection

Beach location:

• Location: Al Saadiyat Island
• Entry fees
  • Weekdays: 25 AED per adult
  • Weekends: 35 AED per adult

*Note: Prices may vary depending on season or events.

Kai Beach

Kai Beach on Al Saadiyat Island is one of Abu Dhabi’s most famous public beaches, celebrated for its soft white sands and expansive, clear waters. The beach offers a tranquil atmosphere ideal for relaxation, with diverse options for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts.

Located between Park Hyatt and Saadiyat Beach Golf Club on the northwestern side of the island, its secluded setting, surrounded by vegetation and green spaces, gives it a unique island feel distinct from many other beaches in the country. Visitors can lounge on sunbeds and order cold drinks or cocktails from a special menu in a setting blending comfort with high-quality service. The beach is open daily from 7:00 AM until sunset.

• Location: Al Saadiyat Island
• Operating hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM (daily)
• Entry fees
  • Weekdays:
    • Adults: 85 AED
    • Children (5–12 years): 40 AED
  • Weekends and public holidays:
    • Adults: 105 AED
    • Children: 60 AED
  • Children under 5: Free at all times
• Contact: 5795 283 050

Yas Beach

Yas Beach is one of Abu Dhabi’s key tourist beaches, located on Yas Island—a man-made island. The beach features a calm sandy stretch surrounded by turquoise waters and mangrove forests. Guests staying at hotels and apartments on Yas Island enjoy free access to this peaceful retreat away from urban noise. The beach is close to major attractions on the island and includes a large swimming pool, private cabanas, restaurants, and lounges, making it an ideal destination for families and friends.

• Location: Yas Island
• Operating hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Entry fees to Yas Beach:
  • Weekdays:
    • Adults: 50 AED
    • Children (8–16 years): 25 AED
  • Weekends:
    • Adults: 100 AED
    • Children (8–16 years): 50 AED
• Children under 8: Free
• Ladies’ day on Saturdays: Half-price entry
• Contact: 0435 242 056

Al Batien Beach

Continuing our overview of Abu Dhabi’s top beaches, we reach Al Batien Beach—one of the public beaches in the emirate. Known for its peaceful ambiance and clean waters awarded the global Blue Flag certification, the beach features two main zones: one designated for families, open daily from 8:00 AM until sunset with free entry, and the eastern section reserved exclusively for women, operating from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Entry costs 25 AED for adult women and 5 AED for children aged 3 to 12.

The beach offers comprehensive facilities, including restrooms, changing rooms, children’s play areas, various water activities, and services such as kayak and sunbed rentals, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and recreation in the heart of the capital.

• Location: Khalifa Al Mubarak Street, Al Qurm, Al Shati Palace

Al Mina Public Beach

Al Mina Beach is a quiet and hidden gem in Abu Dhabi and one of the city’s most distinctive beaches. Located near a small village offering camping supplies and light snacks, it hosts the annual Dhafra Water Sports Festival—the region’s most prominent event. This festival brings together professional athletes and hobbyists for fun competitions in paddleboarding, kayaking, and entertainment shows, alongside local markets and camping and recreational facilities.

• Location: Al Mina
• Operating hours: 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Marvista Beach – Al Hadriyat

Marvista Beach is a vibrant seaside destination located within Al Hadriyat Island, developed by Miden as part of an integrated cultural, recreational, and tourism project. The beach draws inspiration from the area’s historical heritage as a pearl diving center, now blending traditional charm with modern lifestyle.

It’s an ideal spot for families and groups, offering diverse activities including entertainment, sports, and shopping, combined with stunning sea views. Facilities include:

• Open public beach area
• Promenade and seating areas overlooking the sea
• Wide selection of food trucks and restaurants
• Local and international retail stores
• Sports amenities (running, cycling, water sports)
• Cultural and artistic event plaza
• Recreational zones and playgrounds for children

For entry fee details, visit the official beach website for full information.

• Location: Al Hadriyat Island

Al Hadriyat Beach

Al Hadriyat Beach is one of Abu Dhabi’s premier tourism and recreational destinations, combining cultural depth with dynamic outdoor energy. Inspired by the region’s rich history of pearl fishing, the beach delivers a complete experience blending authenticity with modern development.

The beach offers a wide range of activities and facilities, including dining outlets ranging from upscale restaurants to mobile food stalls, plus open-air recreational and sports areas. The rural-inspired design and picturesque sea views give the location a unique character, making it a favorite for families, leisure seekers, and sports enthusiasts alike.

Admission to Al Hadriyat Beach is free from sunrise to sunset.

• Location: Al Hadriyat Island

Nation Riviera Beach Club

We conclude our list of Abu Dhabi beaches with Nation Riviera Beach Club, a distinguished destination along the Abu Dhabi Corniche waterfront. Connected directly to the five-star Saint Regis Hotel via a climate-controlled tunnel beneath the Corniche, the club features a private beach stretching 200 meters. It offers a complete relaxation experience with a temperature-controlled swimming pool, an outdoor jacuzzi, and a kids’ club equipped with indoor and outdoor facilities.

Sports activities here include volleyball, football, rugby, kayaking, sailing, rowing, and swimming, plus a gym and outdoor fitness classes.

• Location: Corniche Street, Al Bateen
• Operating hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (daily)
• Day pass fees (non-members):
  • Weekdays: 160 AED
  • Weekends: 400 AED
• Contact: 4780 694 02

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s a collection of commonly asked questions about Abu Dhabi beaches—be sure to review them for helpful insights.

Are all Abu Dhabi beaches free?

No, not all beaches are free. Some public beaches like Corniche offer free entry, while private beaches such as Kai Beach, Nation Riviera, and Mikrez District require payment, with fees varying by day and location.

Which beaches are best for families?

Al Hadriyat Beach, Al Batien Beach, and Al Saadiyat Beach are excellent choices for families, thanks to lifeguards, children’s play areas, and well-equipped amenities.

Are there women-only beaches in Abu Dhabi?

Yes, some beaches designate specific days for women only. For example, Al Batien Beach has a women-only zone offering full privacy and restricting male entry on certain days.

What are the typical operating hours for Abu Dhabi beaches?

Most beaches operate from 7:00 AM until sunset, but it’s always best to verify official hours before visiting.

Can I practice water sports at Abu Dhabi beaches?

Yes, many beaches offer activities such as kayaking, water skiing, rowing, and snorkeling—especially at Al Hadriyat Beach, Kai Beach, and Nation Riviera.

Are there dining options available at the beaches?

Most beaches provide a variety of food choices, from fine dining restaurants to food trucks—particularly at Marvista Beach, Kai Beach, and Mikrez District.

Can I bring outside food and drinks?

Policies vary by beach. Some private beaches prohibit outside food, while public beaches generally allow it. Always check the rules of each location beforehand.

Are facilities available for people with disabilities?

Yes, many Abu Dhabi beaches are equipped with accessible pathways and dedicated facilities for people with disabilities, such as Corniche Beach and Al Hadriyat Beach.

Do I need to book in advance to enter beaches?

Advance booking is not required for most public beaches, but private beaches—especially during weekends—often recommend reservations to secure sunbeds or cabins.

What is the best time to visit Abu Dhabi beaches?

Winter and spring (November to March) offer the most pleasant weather and comfortable temperatures for swimming and outdoor activities. Summer is ideal for sunbathing.

With this overview, we’ve highlighted both public and private beaches in Abu Dhabi along with their details. For additional options, consider visiting Hamim Beach, known for its diverse beach and recreational activities, and explore women-only beaches in Abu Dhabi and their locations.

Also check out other topics featured on MyBayt, the leading Arabic-language real estate blog in the UAE. Don’t forget to share your favorite Abu Dhabi beach in the comments below. Be sure to subscribe to the MyBayt newsletter to receive weekly updates on topics that matter to you.