From protected mangrove fields to public beaches for picnics, barbecuing and even camping
Sandwiched between Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, the emirate Umm Al Quwain lives in the shadows of its powerhouse sisters. As the UAE’s second-largest emirate, but least populous, Umm Al Quwain is full of wonder, largely found alongside its beautiful and peaceful coastline. A visit to the Umm Al Quwain beaches is a great day out from Dubai, promising fewer crowds and a more laid-back vibe, plus the imitate is known for its commitment to preserving nature and eco-tourism – with a particular focus on its natural mangroves. Here are the best Umm Al Quwain beaches to visit now.
Kite Beach Centre
Perhaps the most famous of Umm Al Quwain beaches is Kite Beach Centre, a beautiful Bali-esque spot for surfing and lazy days in the sunshine. Primarily a kitesurfing school, the location has become a popular spot with UAE residents thanks to its natural and rustic-style feel, with thatched beach huts and charming ramshackle sun loungers. The antithesis to Dubai’s high-gloss beach clubs, guests can expect up-cycled doors, thatched umbrellas and kayaking from around AED75 per hour.
Kitesurfing and hydrofoiling classes are available and there’s even an outdoor ‘Tarzan Gym’, with wooden machinery in the sand. You can rent beach huts for the day at an incredible affordable rate – and organise tours through the mangroves. Pets are also welcome, allowing the whole family to enjoy this Umm Al Quwain beach.
Open daily 6am to 10pm. @kitebeachcenter.uaq
Mangrove beach
Perhaps the best Umm Al Quwain beach to discover the emirate’s outstanding natural beauty is Mangrove Beach – a key cog in its eco-tourism industry. The protected area is home to a long stretch of golden sands and warm Arabian Gulf, and visitors pay just AED20 per person to enter and enjoy the landscape (going towards its preservation). There are no sunloungers to rent, but visitors can use restroom facilities for both men and women.
Making it one of the most unique beaches in the UAE overnight camping is also permitted for AED100 per tent – allowing visitors to sleep to the soothing crashing of the waves and enjoy Umm Al Quwain’s twinkling night skies. While beach barbecuing is permitted, nearby restaurants include Barako Grill & Barbeque, Uncle Frank and Crab and Crack – famed for its seafood dishes like baked mussels, cajun lobster and chilli prawn bao.
Google Maps location, @themangrovebeach
Umm Al Quwain public beach
There’s nothing more freeing than packing up and heading to the beach, with a beach towel and umbrella in hand. Umm Al Quwain public beach allows visitors to do just that. The stretch of sand provides for ample opportunities, swimming, paddling, picnicking and more, plus pets are allowed to join the fun. Be mindful that there are no facilities, so plan ahead and enjoy the freeing feeling of this public stretch of sand.
Leave a Reply
