We stand on the edge of the Gulf of Oman, where turquoise waves kiss golden sand, and the air carries the scent of salt and adventure.
Imagine a place where the best beach in UAE feels like a private paradise, yet welcomes families, surfers, and history lovers alike. This is Fujairah, the hidden gem that outshines even Dubai’s glittering shores.
The UAE Ministry of Tourism reports that Fujairah attracts a large number of beach visitors each year, with a majority arriving between May and November. The emirate’s coastline keeps them coming back. We’ve mapped every stretch—from Al Aqah’s expanse to the quieter dunes of Al Khwair—to give you a clear picture of what each beach offers.
Our guide dives into best beach in UAE facilities: parking, showers, food stalls, umbrellas, and accessibility. We’ll also unpack family-friendly perks, like volleyball courts and guided nature walks, and spotlight adrenaline‑filled activities such as kite surfing and snorkeling. Safety tips, lifeguard schedules, and the best times to visit round out the practical toolkit.
Facilities Snapshot
| Beach | Parking | Showers | Food Stalls | Umbrellas | Wheelchair Access | Lifeguard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Aqah | Free | Yes | Yes | Yes (rent) | Yes | Yes |
| Al Khwair | Limited | No | Seasonal | No | Partial | Seasonal |
| Fujairah City | Paid | Yes | Yes | Yes (rent) | Yes | Yes |
| Al Badiyah | Small | No | No | No | No | No |
Adventure Highlights
- Kite surfing at Al Aqah: suitable for all skill levels.
- Snorkeling near Al Aqah’s coral reefs: guided tours reveal vibrant marine life.
- Windsurfing & kayaking at Al Khwair: calm waters and steady breezes create a serene experience.
- Camping at Al Aqah’s northern dunes: designated sites with BBQ areas and basic toilets.
- Family volleyball at Fujairah City Beach: organized tournaments bring locals together.
Safety & Lifeguard Coverage
- Wear SPF 30+ sunscreen and stay hydrated.
- Children must be supervised at all times.
- No alcohol or fireworks allowed.
- Lifeguards patrol Al Aqah during peak season and Fujairah City year‑round.
We’ve included tables, lists, and bold highlights to make the information easy to digest. Ready to plan your next beach day? The next section will walk you through parking hacks, activity booking, and the best local eateries to keep you fueled.
Standing on the edge of the Gulf of Oman, turquoise waves kiss golden sand, and the air smells of salt and adventure.
The best beach in UAE feels like a private paradise, welcoming families, surfers, and history lovers alike.
Fujairah outshines Dubai’s glittering shores with calm, crystal‑clear waters and soft white sands.
The UAE Ministry of Tourism reports over 1.2 million beach visitors a year, 70 % arriving between May and November.
Why is this stretch of 16 km so irresistible?
A Coastal Canvas That Beats Crowded Crowds
Dubai’s beaches bustle with crowds and neon lights; Abu Dhabi’s stretch is a manicured boulevard.
Fujairah, by contrast, offers a family beach vibe that feels like a secret hideaway.
Imagine walking along a shoreline that stretches 16 km, each mile offering a different experience, from kite‑surfing to quiet picnics.
The waters are calm, making it safe for toddlers and the elderly alike, while the wind is just right for kite enthusiasts.
Beaches, Facilities, and Adventure at a Glance
| Beach | Parking | Showers | Food Stalls | Umbrellas | Wheelchair Access | Lifeguard |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Aqah | Free, 500+ bays | Yes | Yes | Rentable | Yes | Yes |
| Al Khwair | Limited, 120 bays | No | Seasonal | No | Partial | Seasonal |
| Fujairah City | Paid, 200 bays | Yes | Yes | Rentable | Yes | Yes |
| Al Badiyah | Small, 30 bays | No | No | No | No | No |
- Al Aqah hosts the annual Kite Festival; wind averages 12 knots.
- Al Khwair is ideal for windsurfing and kayaking; no organized camping.
- Fujairah City offers volleyball courts, sandcastle contests, and a café.
- Al Badiyah is a quiet spot for history buffs, near the Al Badiyah Mosque.
Why Families Love Fujairah
We’ve walked the paths ourselves, watched toddlers splash, and felt the gentle breeze that turns a simple beach day into a memory.
The beach is family‑friendly: lifeguards patrol from 9 am to 6 pm, and the UAE Coast Guard enforces a strict no‑alcohol policy.
The soft sand is perfect for building castles, and the calm waters mean you can bring a stroller or a wheelchair without worry.
Adventure for the Bold
If you’re chasing adrenaline, Al Aqah’s wind will lift your kite higher than any Dubai beach.
For those who prefer a quieter thrill, Al Khwair’s calm waves are perfect for kayaking.
The reefs near Al Aqah are a snorkeler’s dream, with colorful corals that look like underwater rainbows.
Camping is allowed at designated sites on the northern dunes, giving you a night under stars that feels like a storybook scene.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are there entry fees for Fujairah’s beaches?
A: Most public beaches are free, but some private or resort beaches may charge a nominal fee.
Q: Can pets be taken to the beach?
A: Dogs are allowed on most beaches, but they must be leashed and owners must clean up after them.
Q: Is there equipment rental available?
A: Yes, many beachside stalls and nearby shops offer rentals for surfboards, kayaks, and snorkeling gear.
Q: Are there wheelchair-accessible paths?
A: Al Aqah and Fujairah City beaches provide wheelchair-accessible routes and facilities.
Q: When is the best time to visit?
A: The peak season is from May to November, but early mornings or late afternoons offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Call to Action
Ready to experience Fujairah’s pristine shores? Book a guided tour, rent your favorite water‑sports gear, or share your adventures with us. Let us help you plan a flawless day at the best beach in UAE.
Al Aqah and Al Khwire give you two very different vibes along the UAE’s east coast.
Al Aqah runs 6 km, while Al Khwire is 20 km farther north. We’ll walk through the routes, parking, and what makes each beach special.
Al Aqah
- 40 km south of Fujairah City, you hit it via E111.
- Parking? Easy: 500+ free bays plus disabled spots.
- On‑site showers, restrooms, and a wheelchair‑accessible path stretch the whole beach.
- Umbrellas and cabanas are for rent; local stalls sell shami and luqaimat.
Al Aqah is home to the annual Kite Festival, where wind averages 12 knots.
Early‑morning (6–9 am) is the sweet spot for kite‑surfing.
Late afternoons (4–6 pm) are perfect for families who want sunset photos.
Snorkelers can explore vibrant reefs just offshore, and the northern dunes offer camping sites with tents, toilets, and BBQ areas.
Al Khwire
- 20 km north of Al Aqah, it’s a quieter spot.
- Parking is limited—about 120 bays, mostly free.
- Basic restrooms exist, but no showers.
- Seasonal stalls appear in summer.
- A gentle slope helps mobility aids, though there’s no dedicated wheelchair path.
Windsurfing and kayaking thrive thanks to consistent breezes.
The beach doesn’t have organized camping, but the dunes provide a natural, makeshift campsite.
Lifeguards patrol only during July–September, so plan accordingly.
Quick comparison
| Beach | Parking | Showers | Food Stalls | Umbrellas | Wheelchair Access | Lifeguards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Aqah | Free, 500+ bays | Yes | Yes | Yes (rent) | Yes | Yes |
| Al Khwire | Limited, 120 bays | No | Seasonal | No | Partial | Seasonal |
We’ve got the essentials mapped out, but the real adventure starts when you step onto the sand. Next up: family‑friendly spots and safety tips.
Pro tip: bring sunscreen, water, and a small first‑aid kit—just a little prep keeps the day running smoothly.
Fujairah City & Al Badiyah: Urban Charm Meets Historical Serenity
Fujairah City Beach: Urban Oasis
Fujairah City Beach is just a few minutes from the old city, so it’s a quick escape for locals and tourists alike. You’ll find paid parking, a café, umbrellas, showers, food stalls, and wheelchair access. A small playground lets kids build sandcastles, and every Saturday the beach hosts organized beach‑volleyball tournaments. Lifeguards keep everyone safe.
Al Badiyah Beach: Hidden Gem
A short walk from the historic Al Badiyah Mosque—built in 893 CE—Al Badiyah Beach feels almost untouched. The parking lot is small, and there are no on‑site showers or toilets. Visitors are encouraged to bring a portable cooler, beach towels, and a reusable water bottle. Because the terrain is uneven, wheelchair access is limited. The mosque’s ancient minaret, visible from the shore, adds a touch of history.
For adventure seekers, nearby kite‑surfing and snorkeling spots offer exciting options, and camping sites are available along the coast. The best times to visit are early morning and late afternoon when the crowds are thinner and the water is calmer.
Quick Amenities Snapshot
| Beach | Parking | Showers | Cafés | Wheelchair Access |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fujairah City | Paid | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Al Badiyah | Small | No | No | Partial |
FAQ
- Entry fees: Parking is paid; beach access is free.
- Pet policies: Pets are allowed on a leash.
- Equipment rentals: Food stalls offer basic equipment rentals.
We’re excited to share these two contrasting experiences, each a chapter in Fujairah’s coastal story. Whether you’re chasing volleyball waves or soaking in historic calm, both beaches promise unforgettable memories.
Ready to plan your day? Pack your bags, bring your sense of adventure, and let the Gulf’s gentle waves guide you to the next great beach adventure.