Sunset Beach (Umm Suqeim): The Best View of Burj Al Arab

A comprehensive guide to the city’s most photogenic beach: how to get there, what to do, and when to capture the best sunset over the legendary "Sail."

As the sun begins to melt over the Persian Gulf, bathing the sky in golden hues, you have the chance to secure a front-row seat. Your theater is the soft sands of Sunset Beach, and the star of the show is the world-famous silhouette of the Burj Al Arab hotel. This spot is a true Dubai phenomenon. On one hand, it’s photo location No. 1, a Mecca for those chasing the perfect shot. On the other hand, it’s an unexpectedly serene space for relaxation, where a morning jog gives way to leisurely swims, and the day concludes with the magic of sunset. In this article, we’ll not only tell you how to capture that iconic photo, but also cover all the practical aspects of your visit: from outdoor activities to parking tips and local etiquette.

Inside Sunset Beach: What makes Dubai’s most photogenic beach so special?

Unlike its noisier, more vibrant neighbor, Kite Beach, Sunset Beach—also known as Umm Suqeim Beach—offers a more secluded and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a wide, long stretch of pristine, soft white sand that pleasantly crunches beneath your feet. The entry into the water here is gradual, and the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf are typically calm and clear, making it an ideal spot for family outings and leisurely swimming. The atmosphere at Sunset Beach changes throughout the day like a kaleidoscope. Early morning belongs to runners and yogis who catch the first rays of sunlight at the water's edge. By day, the beach transforms into a truly international photo hotspot, where tourists from around the world seek that quintessential iconic view of the "Sail." And as evening falls, the most diverse crowd gathers here—from couples in love to families with children—to bid farewell to the sun together and witness Dubai's famous sunset.

What to do at Sunset Beach: From the perfect photo to surfing

In addition to admiring the legendary view, Sunset Beach offers other, more active ways to spend your time.

Hunting for the perfect shot: secrets of photographing the Burj Al Arab

Capturing the perfect light and angle is a true art, and Sunset Beach is the ultimate open-air studio for doing just that.

• Best time for photography: Undoubtedly, it's the "golden hour"—roughly one hour after sunrise and one hour before sunset, when the light becomes soft and the sky fills with warm hues. No less impressive is the "blue hour," which occurs immediately after sunset, when city lights have already come on, but the sky has not yet fully darkened. By day, under bright sunlight, you can capture vibrant, high-contrast photos featuring azure seas and dazzlingly white hotels.
• Choosing Your Angle: A classic approach is to shoot from sand level, emphasizing the hotel's grand scale. Try creative angles: use reflections in wet sand after low tide to create a mirror-like effect, or "capture" the hotel in the palm of your hand through clever use of perspective.
• Technical Tips: To balance the bright sky and dark sand at sunset, activate HDR mode on your smartphone—this will help prevent overexposure and loss of detail in shadows.

More than just photos: active and relaxing leisure on the Beach

• Water Sports: During the winter months, when waves grow higher, the beach attracts surfers. Paddleboarding is also popular here in the calm morning waters. There are no equipment rental stations directly on the beach, so it’s best to bring your own gear or rent it in advance.
• Land-based sports: Along the beach runs a convenient running track with a soft surface, which is part of a longer route connecting several beaches. It’s a favorite spot for morning and evening jogs. You’ll also often see groups practicing yoga at dawn here.
• Relaxing leisure: And of course, Sunset Beach is perfect for a classic beach vacation. Here you can spend hours lying on the soft sand, listening to the rhythmic whisper of the waves, and simply enjoying one of the world’s finest views. And for those who like to combine sunbathing with reading, there’s a delightful surprise—a small beach library.

Planning your visit: Everything you need to know

To ensure your vacation goes perfectly, it’s important to consider several practical details.

Please note: taxi fares and public transport schedules in Dubai may change. The prices listed are approximate and will help you plan your budget. For the most accurate information, we strongly recommend using the official apps (RTA, Uber, Careem) immediately before your trip.*

• How to get there:
  • By taxi/Uber/Careem: This is the most convenient option. A ride from Dubai Marina will cost approximately 40–50 dirhams, and from Downtown Dubai, around 60–75 dirhams. In the apps, please set your destination as "Sunset Beach" or "Umm Suqeim Beach."
  • By public transport: The nearest bus stop is located on Jumeirah Beach Road. Several bus routes serve this stop, including bus number 81.
  • By private car: There is a paid RTA parking lot near the beach. The parking fee varies depending on the zone and duration of parking. Please note that finding an available parking space can be very challenging, especially in the evenings and on weekends (Saturday and Sunday).

• Infrastructure and amenities:
  • Despite its "wild" and highly photogenic appeal, the beach is well-equipped for a comfortable stay. You’ll always have access to clean public restrooms, outdoor showers for rinsing off salt, and enclosed changing cabins. All these facilities are maintained in impeccable condition, so you can confidently plan to spend several hours—or even a whole day—here.
  • The nearest places to buy water or a snack are in the neighboring Umm Suqeim Park, where food trucks sometimes operate, or in small shops along Jumeirah Beach Road.
• Budget:
  • The main advantage is that entry to Sunset Beach is completely free.
  • The primary expenses will be transportation and the purchase of drinks or snacks. Water prices at the nearby kiosks are standard for Dubai.
• Rules of conduct and dress code:
  • Ordinary swimsuits and bikinis are permitted on the beach itself. However, when visiting nearby parks, cafes, or shops, you should show respect for local customs by wearing a pareo, t-shirt, shorts, or dress.

Your personal memory from Dubai

Sunset Beach truly offers the perfect balance: postcard-perfect views of the city’s iconic landmark, an atmosphere of complete serenity, and free access with all amenities. But the most important thing you’ll take away from here isn’t just another successful photo for social media. It will be your own personal memory, earned through the anticipation of the sunset. That very moment when you watch the sun touch the horizon behind the legendary “Sail,” and feel as though you’ve caught hold of the very essence of Dubai—the city where the impossible becomes reality right before your eyes.