Overview
The Burj Al Arab is a hotel in the shape of a billowing sail, standing on an artificial island about 280 m offshore and linked to the coast by a causeway. Opened in 1999, it became the symbol of modern Dubai, and at 321 m it is still one of the tallest hotels in the world. Access to the hotel is limited to guests and people with a booking at one of its restaurants or bars.
You can see the tower well from the public beach at Jumeirah, a long strip of soft sand with views of the sail, and from the nearby Madinat Jumeirah, a resort complex of waterways, abras and a souk in an Arabian style. Sunset is the best time for photographs, when the tower changes colour. The area also has family beach parks, water sports and cafes.
Highlights
- The view of the sail-shaped tower from the public beach
- Madinat Jumeirah, with its waterways and souk
- Sunset on Umm Suqeim and Kite Beach
- Water sports, family parks and relaxed seaside cafes
Best time to visit
November to March is the best time, with sunny, warm days and cooler evenings. Summer is hot and humid, and the beach is best early in the morning or after dark. Weekends are busy.
- JanJanuary: Best
- FebFebruary: Best
- MarMarch: Best
- AprApril: Good
- MayMay: Not ideal
- JunJune: Not ideal
- JulJuly: Not ideal
- AugAugust: Not ideal
- SepSeptember: Not ideal
- OctOctober: Good
- NovNovember: Best
- DecDecember: Best
● Best · ○ Good · blank: not ideal. Conditions vary by year, so check local forecasts and access before you go.
Getting there
Fly to Dubai (DXB), about 30 minutes from Jumeirah by taxi. Public beaches have parking and are close to bus and tram links, and ride-hailing services are easy to find. Reserve a table if you want to go inside the hotel, as walk-in visits are not allowed.
What to expect
The beaches are free to use and have showers and lifeguards, though some areas have facilities for a fee. The Burj Al Arab itself is not open to casual visitors, but a restaurant booking lets you see the interior. Dress code and conduct rules apply on public beaches.
Practical tips
- Arrive an hour before sunset for the best light on the tower.
- Book a restaurant or afternoon tea if you want to see inside: it is the only way in.
- Use sun protection, as the midday sun is very strong.
- Follow local rules on dress, photography and drones near the hotel.
Frequently asked questions
Can I go inside the Burj Al Arab?
Only as a hotel guest or with a booking at one of its restaurants or bars. Day visitors without a reservation are not admitted.
Where is the best view?
From the public beach at Umm Suqeim or Jumeirah, or from the Madinat Jumeirah waterfront.
Is the beach free?
Yes, the public beaches are free, with parking and basic facilities. Some beach clubs charge entry.
Official sources
Rules, fees, permits and conditions change. Check the official pages below before you travel.
- Visit Abu Dhabi, the official tourism website
- Visit Dubai, the official tourism website
- UAE government portal: visas and entry
- UK government travel advice: United Arab Emirates
Photos
Last reviewed October 2026. Details are for planning only and can change; confirm access, permits and conditions with official sources before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us. Photography: Diego Delso (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Wikimedia Commons, Renek78 (CC0) via Wikimedia Commons, CT Cooper (Public domain) via Wikimedia Commons.
