Best family-friendly beaches in Dubai for young kids

Ever tried building a sandcastle with a toddler only to have waves crash it moments later? Abu Dhabi’s beaches offer calmer shores, soft sands, and kid-friendly amenities that turn family outings into stress-free adventures. From shallow waters perfect for paddling to shaded picnic spots, here’s your go-to guide for beaches where little ones can play safely—and parents can relax.

CORNICHE BEACH

A Stretch of Serenity in the Heart of the City

Corniche Beach isn’t just a postcard-perfect coastline—it’s a meticulously maintained haven for families. The shallow waters near the Family Zone (Gate 1) are gently cordoned off, letting kids splash without strong currents. Look for the bright blue umbrellas and lifeguard towers, which are staffed daily from 8 AM to 8 PM. Weekends (Friday-Saturday) get busy, so arrive early to snag a prime spot. Pro tip: Rent a shaded cabana for AED 50/hour—it’s worth it when the midday sun hits. The nearby Corniche Park has ice cream vendors and a playground with swings designed for toddlers.

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SAADIYAT PUBLIC BEACH

Where Nature Meets Luxury

Saadiyat’s powdery white sands and crystal-clear waters make it a hit with families, but its eco-friendly design sets it apart. The beach is part of a protected marine area, so don’t be surprised if your kids spot hawksbill turtles bobbing near the shore. Entry costs AED 25 per adult (kids under 12 free), and the fee includes access to showers, changing rooms, and a kids’ play area with climbing frames. Local rule: Avoid bringing single-use plastics—the UAE’s sustainability laws encourage reusable bottles. For a treat, grab a karak chai (spiced tea) from the beachside café.

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YAS BEACH

Adventure by the Shore

Yas Island isn’t just for Ferrari World thrill-seekers. Yas Beach caters to families with a dedicated Kids’ Club offering supervised activities like shell painting and sand art. The water is calm year-round, and inflatable obstacle courses (AED 75/hour) keep older children entertained. Check the tide schedule—low tide reveals tiny crabs that toddlers love chasing. Insider tip: Visit on weekdays for half-price entry (AED 50 instead of AED 100). Don’t miss the Friday brunch at the beachfront restaurant, where Emirati balaleet (sweet vermicelli) is a crowd-pleaser.

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AL BATEEN BEACH

A Hidden Gem for Quiet Mornings

Tucked away near the presidential palace, Al Bateen offers a quieter vibe. The sand here is softer and less crowded, ideal for toddlers still mastering their walking skills. The Abu Dhabi Municipality provides free life jackets for kids at the rental kiosk—just leave an ID as deposit. Local families often gather here for sunset picnics, so join in and try luqaimat (date-sweetened dumplings) from nearby food trucks. Note: No public restrooms—plan accordingly.

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KASR AL WATAN BEACH

Culture and Coastline Combined

Adjacent to the presidential palace, this beach blends history with leisure. While kids build sandcastles, parents can admire the palace’s domes glowing at sunset. The shallow waters are patrolled by lifeguards, and the beach provides complimentary sunscreen at entry gates (SPF 50+). Entry is free for children under 5, and AED 30 for adults. Weekdays are quieter, but weekends feature traditional ayala dance performances. Fun fact: The palace’s garden grows date palms used in local honey sold at the souvenir shop.

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AL MONTAZAH PUBLIC BEACH

Affordable Fun with Local Flavor

For families on a budget, Al Montazah delivers. Entry is free, and the shaded picnic tables are perfect for homemade lunches. The water is shallow up to 50 meters, and local vendors rent paddleboards for AED 40/hour. Cultural tip: Dress modestly—this beach is popular with Emirati families, so avoid swimwear that’s too revealing. Fridays are bustling, with food stalls selling shrimp machboos (spiced rice) and fresh coconut juice.

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EMIRATES PALACE BEACH

Luxury with a Side of Ice Cream

Yes, it’s a splurge (AED 200/day for non-guests), but Emirates Palace Beach guarantees a VIP experience. The sand is raked hourly, and attendants set up toys like buckets and spades for kids. The water is so calm it feels like a pool, and the hotel’s gelato stand serves gold-flake-topped cones—because why not? Keep an eye out for celebrity sightings; this spot is a favorite for Dubai-based influencers. Pro tip: Non-guests can book a day pass online for a 20% discount.

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HIDDEN OASIS: SHEIKH ZAYED HERITAGE PARK BEACH

Green Spaces Meet Sandy Shores

This lesser-known spot combines a beach with a sprawling park. After swimming, explore the botanical gardens or rent a family bike (AED 60/hour). The beach has a gentle slope, making it safe for toddlers, and lifeguards are trained in pediatric first aid. Local insight: Visit during the Abu Dhabi Food Festival (March) for pop-up stalls serving camel milk ice cream.

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www.few.ae EDITOR’S PICK: NIRAJ AL BAHAR BEACH

A Local’s Secret for Sunset Strolls

Managed by the Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, this beach is a hit with resident families. The golden hour here is magical, and the on-site café serves mana’eesh (za’atar flatbread) that even picky eaters devour. Entry is AED 15, and the club offers free kayaks for kids aged 6+. Safety first: The club enforces a strict “no jet skis” rule near the swimming zones.

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BEACH ETIQUETTE IN ABU DHABI: WHAT TO KNOW

Public displays of affection are frowned upon, and photography near locals (especially women and children) requires permission. Alcohol is prohibited on public beaches, though private hotel beaches serve drinks. Always check flags—green means safe, red signals rough waters. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public areas until sunset.

www.few.ae EDITOR’S FINAL TIP: PACK A “BEACH SURVIVAL KIT”

Include reusable water bottles (tap water is safe but tastes chlorinated), UV-protectant swimwear, and a portable shade tent. Most beaches lack rental strollers, so bring a compact wagon for gear. Forgot sand toys? Grocery chains like Carrefour sell affordable sets near seasonal sections.

Abu Dhabi’s shores are more than just sun and sand—they’re stages for family memories. Whether you’re hunting seashells at Saadiyat or savoring gelato at Emirates Palace, these beaches promise joy for the littlest travelers and peace of mind for you. Now, where’s that bucket and spade?

Things to do in Dubai / Things to do in Abu Dhabi