Abu Dhabi Islands and Watersports Guide

Abu Dhabi Islands and Watersports Guide

Sail, snorkel or sunbathe – in Abu Dhabi, dozens of islands and long stretches of coastline promise magical moments by the sea.

See an interactive map of the coast.

MARINAS
TRANSPORT
image alt textWATER ACTIVITIES
image alt textISLANDS
BUILD YOUR ITINERARY

Discover Abu Dhabi's marine gems

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Incredible islands to explore

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Pure and protected waters

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Unique experiences on the water

Explore Abu Dhabi's coast

This interactive map is your smart companion to Abu Dhabi’s coast, helping you discover islands, waterfronts, marinas, beaches and water activities at a glance. Use it to toggle on key boating facilities like slipways and fuel stations, check which islands are open, restricted or protected, search for water activity operators across the emirate and get live weather updates, all in one navigable view.

ALL LOCATIONS

Top destinations to discover

Saadiyat Island

Where Abu Dhabi curates its cultural legacy, one exquisite landmark at a time.

Discover cultural icons
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Saadiyat Island

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More must-see locations

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Al Reem Island
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Jubail Island
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Eastern Mangroves
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Al Bateen
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Mina Zayed
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Al Zahiyah
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Al Maqtaa

Activities on the coast

See all activities
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Yachts
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Fishing charter
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Houseboats

Essential info for your trip

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Island hopping guide
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Transportation options
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Regulations & safety tips
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RV and campervan guide
Shore fishing in Abu Dhabi
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Yacht agents directory

FAQs about Abu Dhabi's coast and islands

Yes, Abu Dhabi is a coastal capital with an expansive shoreline that stretches along the Arabian Gulf. Locations like the iconic Corniche and quieter pockets like Kai Beach are woven into everyday life, offering everything from seaside cafés and promenades to white-sand beaches perfect for a day of absolute relaxation.

Adrenaline-fuelled or slow and steady – Abu Dhabi's watersports cater to both. High-energy activities like jet skiing, wakeboarding, eFoiling and parasailing are available along the city’s waterfronts and dedicated adventure hubs. Prefer something slower-paced? Try stand-up paddleboarding, kitesurfing or a relaxing sailing session along the coast. With year-round sunshine and calm waters, it's always a good time to get out on the water.

Absolutely. At Abu Dhabi Corniche, you can hire a small boat, join a guided cruise or even try kayaking along the coastline for a fresh perspective on the city.

Abu Dhabi’s marine experiences go far beyond swimming and sunbathing. Visitors can set sail on a luxury yacht, take a traditional dhow cruise or paddle through the mangroves in a kayak. For the more adventurous, there’s scuba diving, snorkelling in marine-protected areas and even white water rafting in the desert city of Al Ain.

Abu Dhabi is home to more than 20 world-class marinas, including Yas Marina, Emirates Palace Marina, Marsa Al Bateen and Al Bandar. Many of these waterfront destinations are for more than just moorings – they're hubs for dining, entertainment, events and leisurely strolls by the sea.

At present, Hudayriyat Island is the only island in Abu Dhabi with a clearly designated and officially managed camping site. Camping is available through Bab Al Nojoum, which offers bookable beach camping and glamping experiences with defined plots and facilities.

Other islands may be visited for day trips, but for now, Hudayriyat Island is the only island where camping is formally established and publicly promoted as an authorised experience.

As outdoor tourism continues to develop across the emirate, more island-based camping sites may be introduced in the future – watch this space.