Dubai has a new obsession, and it’s not another mall. J1 Beach has taken over the old La Mer South stretch and turned it into a slick, curated strip of beach clubs, restaurants, and pool decks that make you want to call in “sick” to spend a weekday in the sun. This is where beach days meet good dining — not soggy fries by the shore — and where your sunset Aperol comes with a perfect view of the Arabian Gulf.
Whether you’re here to lounge all day in a cabana, sip mezcal cocktails with your toes in the sand, or have dinner with a sea breeze, here’s everything you need to know about Dubai’s new urban riviera.
What is J1 Beach?
Think of J1 Beach as Dubai’s answer to Saint-Tropez — but with valet parking. Set in Jumeirah 1, it’s home to 13 luxury beachfront venues, each offering something distinct: Greek fine dining, Riviera-style beach clubs, bohemian Mexican vibes, and even a modern take on Middle Eastern heritage.
This isn’t a public beach you can wander into with your picnic mat. Access is through one of the venues, so expect minimum spends or day passes — though most are redeemable against food and drinks. The reward? Designer sunbeds, smartly shaded cabanas, curated playlists, and service that actually finds you before you need a refill.
Where to Eat, Drink, and Chill at J1 Beach
Here’s the lowdown on the venues you’ll actually want to book.
Sirene by Gaia
The crown jewel of J1 Beach and the world’s largest beach club. Expect Greek-Mediterranean plates that are as photogenic as they are delicious — seabream carpaccio, truffle-topped cheese pie, grilled seafood platters. It’s as much about the scene as it is about the food, so book a cabana and stay for sunset.
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African Queen
A slice of the French Riviera with a Dubai twist. Think wood-fire pizzas, seafood, and a playlist that slowly nudges you from lazy lunch to golden hour drinks. Perfect for a chilled weekday.
La Baia Dubai
Colourful sunbeds, Italian coastal vibes, and spritzes on tap. La Baia is an easy choice if you want to spend the day horizontal by the pool and then roll over for a late lunch.
Bâoli Dubai
Bâoli brings the drama with a glamorous, East-Asian-meets-Mediterranean menu and one of the most stylish settings at J1 Beach. Great for evenings when you want to keep things lively.
Gigi Rigolatto
If Amalfi Coast aesthetics and Italian comfort food are your thing, this one’s for you. Sunbeds, pastas, and a slow build into a sunset you’ll want to toast.
Gitano
Bohemian chic meets modern Mexican. Cabanas, mezcal cocktails, and tropical greenery make it a very Instagram-friendly spot.
Kaimana Beach
Asian-Polynesian fusion, Waka Pool Sundays, DJs spinning by the grill — this is where you go when you want a little party with your sunbathing.
Ninive Beach
An intimate nod to Middle Eastern heritage. Arabic-inspired cocktails, elegant décor, and a slower pace make it the most refined stop on the strip.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Timing: Weekdays are cheaper, quieter, and easier to book. Weekends get busy, especially at sunset.
- Reservations: Strongly recommended for dinner and cabanas at the bigger venues like Sirene and Bâoli.
- Dress Code: Chic beachwear by day, smart casual if you’re staying for dinner.
- Pricing: Expect high-end Dubai beach club prices — but most of it is redeemable on food and drinks.
- Transport: Valet parking is available, but spaces can fill fast. Rideshare is your safest bet on weekends.
The Perfect Day at J1 Beach
Start late morning with a cabana at La Baia or African Queen, order a light lunch, and let the day run itself. As the sun begins to dip, freshen up and head over to Sirene by Gaia or Bâoli for dinner with a view. If you still have energy, stay for post-dinner drinks — the music usually picks up just as the city lights come on.
Why J1 Beach Is Worth It
J1 Beach isn’t just another strip of sand — it’s Dubai’s most elevated take yet on the beach club concept. It nails the trifecta of good food, good service, and a setting that feels like a proper escape from the city. Whether you’re looking for a boozy beach day with friends, a quiet lunch with sea views, or a full day-to-night experience, J1 Beach gives you a reason to plan your weekend around it.
