La Mer, Dubai

La Mer lies on the coast of Jumeirah 1 in Dubai, between Jumeirah Beach Road and the sea, south of Port Rashid. It was developed by Meraas and opened in October 2017. Its name is French for the sea.

The district was built on reclaimed land and laid out as a relaxed seaside village rather than a mall. Low buildings of timber, corrugated metal and painted walls, with murals and street art, give it a casual style. It is divided into a northern and a southern area, linked by the beach.

The main attraction is the beach itself, a long stretch of white sand with free public access, lifeguards in marked swimming zones, showers and changing rooms. Sun loungers and umbrellas can be rented. Along the waterfront are dozens of restaurants and cafes, many with outdoor seating, as well as shops and a small cinema. The Laguna Waterpark, a paid water park with slides, a lazy river and a surf machine, is part of the development. Children's play areas and a pier with views toward the Burj Khalifa make it popular with families.

Evenings are busy, when cafes fill and the skyline lights up across the water.

Entry to La Mer and the beach is free, while the water park and some activities charge fees. Parking is available on site. The beach is best from October to April, and swimwear should be kept to the beach area.