10 top Dubai beaches

The Pavilion Marina & Sports Club (JBH)
Jumeirah Beach Hotel offers one of Dubai’s most well-equipped clubs, sprawling across 900 metres of private beach and appealing to an international crowd (on our visit, a group of Italians were randomly playing the accordion and singing, for that extra continental touch). Looking out to sea with the Burj Al Arab before you and the cries of those braving the Wild Wadi rides floating in the air, you’ll feel as though you’re right where it’s all happening. Just steer clear of the sea near the docked yachts to avoid floating diesel.

Facilities: Expect your towel to be laid out for you, and regular hand-outs of ice lollies, slushies and fruit. Choose from four different pools, or try watersports including banana-boating and windsurfing. Later you can hop on the climbing wall or play tennis on one of the seven courts. We also recommend a trip to Beachcombers for food.

Availability of sun loungers: There are hundreds, though for the sake of getting a parking spot outside it’s best to arrive in the morning.

Highlight: This is one of the city’s most prestigious and ‘quintessentially Dubai’ hotels.

Best for: Families, and those who like to feel in among the action.
Dhs250; Dhs150 for under 16s; free for kids under two. Jumeirah Beach Hotel (04 348 0000).

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