Corniche Beach, Abu Dhabi

Corniche Beach runs along the western shore of Abu Dhabi island, in front of the towers that line Corniche Road. It forms part of the Corniche, a waterfront about 8 kilometres long with promenades, parks, cycle lanes, cafes and play areas. Before the 1970s this shore was a working beach where dhows anchored to unload goods.

In the 2000s the Corniche was widened on reclaimed land, and the beach was rebuilt as a managed public beach. It received Blue Flag certification for water quality and safety in April 2011, and the Abu Dhabi City Municipality keeps it clean and patrolled.

The beach is divided into sections. A general public area is free to use, while the family and singles beach sections charge a small entry fee and offer quieter sand with sun loungers and umbrellas for rent. Lifeguards watch marked swimming zones, and the calm, shallow water suits children. Showers, toilets, changing rooms and snack kiosks are spread along the sand. Behind the beach, landscaped lawns and walking paths connect to the rest of the Corniche.

The views take in the skyline and the Marina Mall breakwater. Emirates Palace and Qasr Al Watan lie beyond the western end.

The family beach and Sahil beach open daily from 7 am to midnight, and swimming is allowed from 7 am until sunset. Modest swimwear is expected, and visitors should cover up when leaving the sand. October to April brings the most comfortable weather.

The Corniche was extended on land reclaimed from the sea between 2002 and 2004. That work removed two old landmarks, the volcano fountain and the Abu Dhabi clocktower. A ladies' beach at one end closed in 2022 for redevelopment.

The sand is split by gates. Gates 1, 2 and 3 serve families and children, and gates 4, 5 and 6 serve individuals and groups. Facilities listed by the municipality include food outlets, a mini mart, a children's playground, volleyball and football pitches, a cycle and jogging track, prayer rooms for men and women, a beach library, a first aid room, showers, changing rooms, an ATM and parking. Lifeguards, police and security staff are on duty, and a floating chair is available for visitors with reduced mobility.

Landmarks along the waterfront help with orientation. Marina Mall sits across a narrow breakwater road, close to one of the tallest flagpoles in the world, and the World Trade Center Mall faces the Corniche further east. Lulu Island, a small reclaimed island, lies about 1 kilometre offshore. In summer, come early in the morning or after sunset; the beach stays open until midnight, and evening swims are not allowed after dark.