Rising out of the Arabian desert sands is the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, with its intense horizon of architectural beauty. Renowned for its dramatic and opulent architecture, luxurious accommodation, world-class shopping and warm winter sunshine, it also has some of the most amazing beaches in the region.

Here is our guide to some of our favourite beaches in Abu Dhabi.

The most prominent beach among them all is Corniche Beach, right in the centre of the city which stretches for 2 kilometres along the city’s waterfront. This endless stretch of ivory sand in front of the city’s remarkable skyline is divided into three sections. One section is for singles and groups and is free of charge. The other two sections are for families and for a small fee, you get to use the parts of the beach where showers, changing rooms and cabanas are available and sun loungers can be hired. This is a meticulously maintained, Blue Flag beach with international clean-water status.

Just offshore, in the Arabian Gulf, lies Saadiyat Island, a natural island spanning approximately 27 square kilometres. Apart from being home to a host of world-class attractions and opulent luxury, it is home to Kai Kaadiyat Beach which is part of the Kaadiyat Beach Club and an ideal place to spend the day. A day pass can be purchased for the beach club and the Kai Kaadiyat Beach along with all the luxuries of the beach club are all yours for the day. On these white sands and the surrounding turquoise-blue waters, bottlenose dolphins and sea turtles will keep you company in the water.

On the beach, sink your feet into the white sand and luxuriate in the sunshine on comfortable beach liners under muslin tents, palm fronds, macrame umbrellas and wooden walkways. The beach clubs open at 7am so get there early and enjoy it right up until the spectacular sunset which you can enjoy lying on your luxury sun lounger.

Yas Island, a purpose-built manmade island located northeast of the city centre, is home to Yas beach which is another stretch of white sand surrounded by mangroves and clear blue waters with breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf.

Yas Beach offers a relaxed, idyllic and tranquil getaway. The beach club is accessible to all of Yas Island’s hotels and hotel apartments complimentary or for a small entrance fee if you’re staying elsewhere. You can unwind on the luxury beachfront sun loungers, enjoy beach volleyball or water sports and eat and drink in any of the restaurants and cafes. You can enjoy this beach for your daytime relaxation as well as evening socializing.

Apart from the beauty of the white sands, turquoise-blue waters, bottlenose dolphins, turtles and stunning sunsets, Abu Dhabi’s beaches are renowned for their world-class facilities and luxurious settings. Most hotels have private beaches with infinity pools, fine dining options and luxurious beach facilities guaranteeing a truly relaxing and indulgent experience.

Why not book Abu Dhabi holidays today and experience these beaches for yourself?