The Best Surf Beaches Around The UAE

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Although the UAE might not be your first-choice destination for a surfing trip, with Emirates looking out into the Indian Ocean, there is plenty of swell to go around. Anyone from a beginner to a pro can find a time and place to enjoy the swells coming in from the north or southeast, depending on the Emirate. The best way to get around and make sure swell is by your side is to check in with the boys at the Surf House where you can rent boards and gear, get the latest swell forecast, and meet the locals. So if you’re stopping by and the malls aren’t for you, join the residents on these beaches for some waves!

Sunset Beach

Located in the heart of Jumeirah, with the Surf House and Surf Café just around the corner, it is one of Dubai’s closest and busiest beach breaks. Swell is consistent throughout winter months (which is the best time to head to the beach when in the UAE), and although waves may sometimes be small, the beach always attracts a crowd. Don’t be put off by the crowd of beach-goers and tourists; due to the strong rip and swell, a part of the beach is designated only for surfers. It’s a tourist destination and a surf spot in one as you get to swim and surf with the iconic Burj Al Arab (located just down the street) as your backdrop!

Sunset Beach, Jumeirah, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

If you managed to make it out this morning, the gulf would have impressed you. #summer #surprises #ramadan #kareem #mydubai #burj #sunnies #surfhousedubai

A photo posted by surfhousedubai (@surfhousedubai) on Jun 13, 2016 at 4:50am PDT

North Beach

Another local’s favorite, located just north of Dubai, heading towards Sharjah, the beach is not officially open as the construction of the Pearl Dubai Residences is going on around it, but this is a surfer’s paradise. You won’t find tourists or beach-goers here – only surfers. The crowd is made up of mainly experienced surfers, especially since swells are high throughout the season.

It'll be the first year we throw in a SUP surf division. This kind of wave riding has been growing a fair bit in the last few years. So we figured we could squeeze in a couple of heats to let the ocean sweepers show us what they can do with a paddle in hand. Once again if you've not yet registered, go to www.premieronline.com #sunsetopen2016 @roxy @quiksilver

A photo posted by surfhousedubai (@surfhousedubai) on Mar 12, 2016 at 11:01pm PST

Al Khan Beach

Sharjah’s best stop offers a small and clean beach break perfect for beginners. This is where you can find Sharjah’s Surf School as it is naturally a great place to learn. Not many experienced surfers get out to this beach, but small waves can be fun, so give it a go if you’re in Sharjah for a day.

Al Khan Beach, Al Khan St, Sharjah, United Arab Emirates

Tim’s Reef

Fujairah’s best surf stop, located on UAE’s east side, faces the Indian Ocean, making it out to be the UAE’s only reef break. This only occurs when there is a big Indian Ocean swell from a storm, so the best time to head out is usually throughout the summer months. Located an hour’s drive from Dubai, plan ahead and take a day to visit Fujairah and the reef when the swell is at its best.

Tim’s Reef, Fujairah, United Arab Emirates

The Mens Open is always held in the largest surf over the two day period. Its a perfect show of the surf potential in the region and just how well some of the locals can surf. #sunsetopen2016 @roxy @quiksilver @variableconstrast

A photo posted by surfhousedubai (@surfhousedubai) on Mar 9, 2016 at 5:01am PST

These recommendations were updated on February 9, 2017 to keep your travel plans fresh.