Dubai's beach clubs: so much more than sun, sand and sea

In Dubai, beach clubs aren’t just for sunbathing. The Emirate’s beach club scene is thriving with venues hosting music events, fitness classes, fashionable restaurants and chic boutiques. Here are six beach clubs and pool lounges to sample the next time you’re in Dubai.

Best for: Fitness classes, Instagram photos and the ultra-luxury private cabana

Location: One&Only Royal Mirage, Dubai Marina

Drift beach club is a beauty nestled on the grounds of one of Dubai’s most luxurious hotels, One&Only Royal Mirage. Artfully positioned Arabesque arches frame Instagram-worthy vistas, often punctuated by flexible yogis striking a pose. Open since 2017, from 10 am to sunset, this adults-only beach club has become a hub for fitness and fashion enthusiasts. 

Instructor Sophie Malpass hosts Super SUP Fit classes in the pool. Participants perform yoga, Pilates and HIIT sessions on stand-up paddle boards, which adds both fun and core strengthening to workouts. The onsite boutique, Summer Soul, stocks and supports homegrown labels, presenting them to the well-heeled international visitors at Drift. 

The Private Beach Cabana accommodates 10 people, with its own pool, lounge, bathroom, terrace and dinner table. A more affordable option is a seat at Drift’s restaurant where Provence is on the menu. 

Best for: EDM DJs and Ibiza-style parties on the sand

Location: Palm West Beach, Palm Jumeirah

Surf Club’s seasonal Vagabond parties hosting big names from the EDM (electronic dance music) scene have brought raving crowds to this Palm Jumeirah beach bar and restaurant. Open from 10 am until the small hours, patrons dress to impress in a combination of swimwear and party gear. By day, the atmosphere is relaxed with glamorous guests enjoying fashionable