Some places just don’t make it to the postcards, and that’s exactly why they’re worth finding. The UAE has a huge stretch of coastline, but most of the famous bits are taken over by beach clubs and hotels.
That’s fine if you want cocktails and music, but sometimes all you really want is sand, sea, and silence. The spots below aren’t glossy or commercial, and that’s what makes them special. One thing though—don’t leave a mess. Take your things back with you so the next person gets the same experience.
Khor Fakkan
On the southeastern edge of Khorfakkan’s bay sits Shark Island. To get there, you grab a small boat from the port (usually around Dhs60–100 depending on your group) and make the short crossing. The water is so clear it almost feels fake. I snorkeled here once and watched shoals of tiny silver fish zip past my legs, and a black-tip reef shark cruised nearby as if it was minding its own business. No cafes, no shops, nothing. Just
0bring what you need and soak it up.
Black Palace Beach, Dubai
Most people call it Secret Beach, though technically it’s Al Sufouh. Hidden between royal palaces, with no signs pointing the way, it feels like a lucky find. I stumbled across it one evening and ended up sitting in the sand watching the Burj Al Arab glow orange against the sunset. There’s nothing fancy here—just you, your towel, and the sea.
Mirfa Beach
Out in Al Dhafra, far from Dubai’s chaos, Mirfa sits quietly. The drive is long, which is probably why it stays so empty. The beach is wide, the water calm, and you can still find camping spots without anyone around. A small town nearby has supplies if you need them. If you’re on the way to Sir Bani Yas, it’s worth stopping just to let the silence sink in.
Shuweihat Island
Getting here is half the battle. You’ll need a 4x4 to handle the rocky path, but once you reach it, the cliffs look like something straight out of Petra—burnt orange and sculpted by wind. Camp overnight if you can. The sea is right below, and when the stars come out it feels like the middle of nowhere.
Saadiyat Beach, Abu Dhabi
Not exactly hidden, but still worth mentioning. Saadiyat is a public beach with an entry fee, but the sand is bright white and the water ridiculously clear. Facilities are solid—lifeguards, cafes, proper changing rooms. It’s an easy, no-stress beach day if you want nature but not total isolation.
Jebel Ali Beach
Old-school Dubai beach vibes. No hotels blocking the view, just open stretches of sand. Paddleboard, kayak, or just sit by the shore with your feet in the water. It’s free to enter, but you can’t camp or BBQ here. Think lazy afternoon, not big weekend plan.
Mangrove Beach – Umm Al Quwain
A newer spot, opened to the public in 2020, but already popular with campers and families. Entry is Dhs20 per car, camping is about Dhs100, and you can rent kayaks to paddle among the mangroves. There’s even a café, so you’re not totally cut off. Bonusit’s pet-friendly. I’ve seen dogs running full tilt into the water here, tails wagging like crazy.
Dibba
This one’s trickier. To reach the best parts of Dibba beach, you’ll need your passport for the Omani checkpoints. But the drive itself is part of the adventure—Hajar Mountains on one side, turquoise sea on the other. Once you’re through, the beaches feel raw and untouched compared to Dubai’s polished coastlines.
Before You Go
Don’t leave trash, even fruit peels.
Leave shells and rocks where they are.
Use a camping stove instead of big bonfires.
Expect wildlife and don’t disturb it.
Cover up until you’re actually on the beach, and remember alcohol is only allowed in licensed places.
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