Beach Breaks

It's time to hit the sand! Let our handy guide point you towards your perfect beach holiday in Dubai

You could just find a resort by the sea, or you could stay at a true icon of luxury…

Frequently voted one of the world's most luxurious hotels, the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab commands attention along Dubai's coast. And while it's a given that you'll want to visit the architectural gem while on a trip – if only to admire it up close – staying there is something every discerning traveller should vow to do at least once in his or her life. Ask anyone who has been lucky enough to check in and they'll admit that the experience is impressive from the very start. Upon arrival, you are discreetly escorted to your duplex suite which, due to the property's smart design, has wow views of your unique location and beyond through floor-to-ceiling windows. The beach experience is as luxurious as you'd expect, and at the exclusive Burj Al Arab Terrace you'll find Scape restaurant (specialising in Californian-style cuisine), a dreamy infinity pool and cosy cabanas. Of course, there's plenty more at the property to entice, including the acclaimed Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara, and a chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce to ferry you around town.

You could just stay on the beach, or upgrade to a place that has its own luxury beach club…

Unwind in your very own pocket of beach bliss at Jumeirah Al Naseem, the latest property to open at Madinat Jumeirah. All the rooms and suites have postcard-worthy views towards Burj Al Arab or the Arabian Gulf, and expansive terraces that edge the sandy beach. But the best bit, in our opinion, is the lure of Summersalt beach club, which has launched a new Japanese fusion pop-up concept, Umi Shio, created by Japanese/ Argentinian chef Cristian Goya. Blending the artful craft of Japanese cooking, with the delicious flavours of South America, dishes are designed for sharing and feature authentic Japanese and South American ingredients such as miso, yuzu, truffle and lime in abundance. Open for lunch and dinner, it also serves a delicious selection of Japanese-inspired drinks to sip while admiring the view. And if you thought you'd reached peak relaxation throughout the day, bear in mind that Talise Spa is just a hop, skip and a buggy ride away. We rate the Hot Sea Shell massage, which helps banish tension and stress.

You could just stay at a hotel with spacious rooms, or you could stay somewhere with Royal Residences…

While we're spoilt for choice when it comes to spacious suites in Dubai, there comes a time in life when you want to squirrel yourself away from the rest. If you're not keen on seeing another soul while you're away (aside from your nearest and dearest), then a private villa holiday fits the bill nicely. The Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Royal Residences set the bar high when it comes to exclusive beach breaks. Set amid lush tropical gardens and a dreamy lagoon pool, the Ottoman era inspired villas have their own private sun terrace, private swimming pool and stretch of soft sand. You'll also have access to your own private garden while a fully-equipped kitchen means you don't have to decamp to a restaurant – simply call upon the personalised butler service to take care of all your needs.

You could just stay at a family hotel, or you could stay at a family hotel that's fresh from a stylish refurb…

Back on the scene following a six month refurbishment, and celebrating its 20 th anniversary this year, Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a firm favourite among families. Throw open the doors of your family Garden Suite and step out onto the private terrace for some salty sea air, splash around in the swimming pools, build sandcastles with the kids, and swap stories over dinner at Pan Asian restaurant Beachcombers. What's more, all guests get complimentary access to Wild Wadi Waterpark.

To find out more, visit jumeirah.com