Umm Suqeim

The distinctive architecture of the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab has made Umm Suqeim and its coastline world famous. There is simply no missing this iconic structure, nor the wave-shaped Jumeirah Beach Hotel next door, which occupies the site of the former Chicago Beach, a popular spot in the 1970s. 

The area is now home to another luxury retreat by the Jumeirah group – Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab – with 386 rooms and suites, 11 restaurants and nine lounges. There's also a new promenade next door – Marsa Al Arab Walk – perfect for those looking to dine with views of the Burj Al Arab and a marina lined with luxury yachts.

Though some parts of Umm Suqeim seem suspended in time — such as the old-school Dubai Offshore Sailing Club, which began operating in 1974, and the quiet streets with small mosques, white-washed villas and Middle Eastern bakeries — today, much of the exclusive beachfront is occupied by exquisite five-star resorts and royal palaces.

The crowning jewel of course is the glamour and Arabian-inspired architecture at Madinat Jumeirah, a complex of luxury hotels that offer a world of relaxation. You’ll never want to leave.

There are plenty of public beaches, too. Tourists and surfers flock to the Sunset Beach to the right of the Burj Al Arab. Further up the coast, the quiet, curved stretch known as Nessnass Beach has been gently revived with a jogging track, trendy cafes, bean bags and a ‘beach library’.

The most well-known and action-packed however is Kite Beach, a hub for adventure sports, including – you guessed it – kitesurfing. With calm, clear blue waters, the 14km beach has a cosmopolitan corniche dotted with quirky food trucks, and colourful ‘surfboard’ showers. 

Getting there: The closest metro stations are Noor Bank and Mall of the Emirates. Alight at either of these and take a taxi, or get onboard bus No.81 from Mall of the Emirates to reach your destination.