Dubai is famous for lively beaches like JBR and Kite Beach, but many visitors don’t know that the city also has hidden and secret beaches where you can enjoy peace, space, and natural views. These beaches are loved by locals because they are less crowded, free to enter, and perfect for relaxing away from tourist areas.
In this guide, you’ll discover the best hidden & secret beaches in Dubai, with clear details about location, entry fee, and things to do. The wording is simple, practical, and based on real travel experience.
Why Look for Hidden Beaches in Dubai?
Hidden beaches in Dubai are usually not promoted as tourist attractions. Most are public beaches without cafes, loud music, or crowds. People visit them for calm water, quiet walks, sunset views, and personal space. These beaches are ideal for couples, families, photographers, and anyone who wants a peaceful break.
1. Sufouh Beach (Black Palace Beach)
Location: Between Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah
Entry Fee: Free
Sufouh Beach is one of the most famous “secret beaches” in Dubai. It sits behind royal palaces, which is why it’s often called Black Palace Beach. There are no facilities, but the view of Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah is beautiful.
Things to do:
- Swim in calm water
- Walk along the quiet shoreline
- Watch sunset with skyline views
- Take peaceful beach photos
Good to know: Bring water and snacks. No restrooms nearby.
2. Al Sufouh Beach 2
Location: Al Sufouh area
Entry Fee: Free
This part of Sufouh Beach is even quieter. It’s wide, open, and usually empty on weekdays. The sand is clean and the water is shallow near the shore.
Things to do:
- Relax without crowds
- Beach walking
- Photography
- Quiet family time
3. Jebel Ali Beach
Location: Near Jebel Ali Port
Entry Fee: Free
Jebel Ali Beach feels far from the city even though it’s still in Dubai. It’s long, open, and mostly visited by locals. You won’t find beach clubs or music here.
Things to do:
- Long beach walks
- Peaceful swimming
- Enjoy sea breeze
- Sunset watching
Tip: Best visited early morning or before sunset.
4. Ghantoot Beach (Near Dubai Border)
Location: Between Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Entry Fee: Free
Ghantoot Beach is less known and rarely crowded. It’s a good option if you want a natural beach experience without city noise.
Things to do:
- Relaxing swim
- Picnics
- Photography
- Quiet couple time
Note: Facilities are limited.
5. Pearl Jumeirah Beach
Location: Pearl Jumeirah Island
Entry Fee: Free
Pearl Jumeirah Beach is clean, calm, and well-maintained. It’s close to the city but still peaceful, making it great for families.
Things to do:
- Swimming in clean water
- Beach walks
- Relaxation
- Sunset views
6. Al Mamzar Hidden Areas
Location: Al Mamzar, near Deira
Entry Fee: Free (outside park area)
While Al Mamzar Park is popular, there are quiet beach corners outside the main park that many people miss. These spots are calmer and less crowded.
Things to do:
- Swimming
- Walking
- Photography
- Family relaxation
7. Umm Suqeim Fishing Beach
Location: Umm Suqeim
Entry Fee: Free
This beach is often used by local fishermen, especially early in the morning. It’s not a tourist beach, which makes it peaceful.
Things to do:
- Morning walks
- Watch fishermen
- Quiet swimming
- Photography
8. Mercato Beach
Location: Near Mercato Mall, Jumeirah
Entry Fee: Free
Mercato Beach is small but calm. It’s a good choice if you want a quiet spot close to cafes and shops.
Things to do:
- Relaxing swim
- Sunset views
- Short beach walks
- Casual photography
9. Sunset Beach (Hidden Corners)
Location: Near Umm Suqeim
Entry Fee: Free
Sunset Beach is known, but many visitors don’t walk far enough to find quiet corners away from the main area. These parts are peaceful and perfect for photos.
Things to do:
- Sunset photography
- Swimming
- Walking
- Relaxation
10. Dubai Waterfront Beach
Location: Dubai Waterfront area
Entry Fee: Free
This beach is still developing, which keeps crowds away. It’s raw, open, and quiet, offering a different side of Dubai.
Things to do:
- Beach walks
- Photography
- Relaxation
- Enjoy open sea views
Best Time to Visit Hidden Beaches in Dubai
- Best season: November to March
- Best time of day: Early morning or sunset
- Avoid: Midday in summer due to heat
Winter months offer pleasant weather and calm sea conditions.
Dubai Beach Rules You Should Know
To enjoy hidden beaches safely and respectfully, follow local rules:
- Wear modest swimwear on public beaches
- No alcohol allowed
- Avoid loud music
- Swimming only in safe conditions
- Respect families and local culture
- No camping or BBQ unless allowed
These rules help keep beaches clean and welcoming for everyone.
Who Are These Beaches Best For?
- Couples: Sufouh Beach, Ghantoot Beach
- Families: Pearl Jumeirah, Al Mamzar areas
- Photography lovers: Sunset Beach, Sufouh Beach
- Peace seekers: Jebel Ali Beach, Dubai Waterfront
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are hidden beaches in Dubai free?
Yes, most hidden and secret beaches in Dubai are completely free to enter.
Are these beaches safe for swimming?
Yes, but some beaches do not have lifeguards. Always check sea conditions.
Can tourists visit secret beaches in Dubai?
Yes, all public beaches in Dubai are open to tourists.
Which hidden beach is closest to Burj Al Arab?
Sufouh Beach (Black Palace Beach) is the closest quiet beach.
Are hidden beaches family friendly?
Yes, especially Pearl Jumeirah and Al Mamzar quiet areas.
Final Thoughts
Dubai is more than luxury hotels and busy beaches. If you want calm water, space, and a more local experience, these hidden & secret beaches in Dubai are perfect. They offer peace, natural beauty, and a refreshing break from crowded tourist spots.
Explore responsibly, respect local rules, and enjoy a quieter side of Dubai that many visitors never see.
Hi, I’m Haseeb Ahmed, the founder of KhaleejBlog.com — a premier travel platform dedicated to providing practical and up-to-date travel tips across Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar. My mission is to help travelers explore the Gulf region with ease, discover hidden gems, and make the most of every journey.
