Dubai is known as the metropolis of the emirate of the same name, and no other city in the United Arab Emirates has a larger population. Beyond these basic facts, it is also interesting to learn more about Dubai’s location. This raises the question: Is Dubai located on the coast, and how does the city’s location affect the real estate market and tourism?
Exactly which sea does Dubai border?
Dubai is distinguished by its direct location on the sea. The city lies directly on the Persian Gulf. More specifically, Dubai is situated on a bay called Khor Dubai. Strictly speaking, the sea in Dubai is a 14-kilometer-long bay. The bay is up to 1.3 kilometers wide and measures just 100 meters at its narrowest point.
Dubai is located by the sea—the name says it all. Its location on the Persian Gulf shapes Dubai’s image and character. Anyone looking to purchase real estate in Dubai has the opportunity to live and work right on the waterfront and enjoy the city’s numerous entertainment and recreational options.
Dubai’s location on the Persian Gulf has always played a central role. It was here that the Portuguese dropped anchor many centuries ago and the first trade routes were established. Once upon a time, there were two independent cities along the bay: Bur Dubai to the south and Deira to the north. Today, Dubai has grown into a vibrant global metropolis. Its direct location on the sea remains a defining factor that influences many areas of the economy and public life.
Bridges across the bay are located away from the city center. Passenger ferries called “abras” are used to transport pedestrians. Dubai borders the emirate of Sharjah to the north. Its expansion along the Gulf is therefore concentrated more to the south. Notable landmarks include Sheikh Zayed and the Jumeirah beach area.
Throughout its history, Dubai has benefited from its location on the Persian Gulf, and that remains true to this day. Luxurious beach resorts have sprung up along the coastline. Striking buildings stand out against the backdrop of the sea, and numerous water sports activities attract both locals and tourists.
What is the water temperature in Dubai?
Now that we’ve answered the question, “Which sea borders Dubai?”, here’s some good news for water lovers: You can swim in the Persian Gulf all year round.
The average swimming temperatures speak for themselves:
- January = 21 to 25 degrees Celsius
- February = 21 to 23 degrees Celsius
- March = 21 to 25 degrees Celsius
- April = 23 to 28 degrees Celsius
- May = 26 to 31 degrees Celsius
- June = 30 to 33 degrees Celsius
- July = 31 to 35 degrees Celsius
- August = 32 to 35 degrees Celsius
- September = 32 to 34 degrees Celsius
- October = 30 to 32 degrees Celsius
- November = 26 to 31 degrees Celsius
- December = 23 to 27 degrees Celsius
When is the best time to visit Dubai?
During the high season, it can get very hot in Dubai. Even the ocean offers little relief, with temperatures reaching up to 35 degrees Celsius. The best time to visit Dubai is from November through March. When temperatures drop in Germany and the first snow falls, you can extend your summer in Dubai.
With average temperatures of 24 degrees Celsius, the coolest weather in Dubai occurs from mid-December through mid-January. The Advent and Christmas season has become a popular travel time for tourists from Europe. It’s advisable to book accommodations in Dubai well in advance. Accommodations are in high demand, and prices are slightly higher.
The Importance of the Port of Dubai
The seaport of Jebel Ali was built from scratch. As early as 2005, it was considered a major transshipment hub in the Persian Gulf. In 2019, the highly automated Container Terminal 4 began operations.
The port is served by passenger and commercial ships. Passenger ships are handled at Port Rashid. The older port is located closest to the city. Ferry service operates from Port Rashid to Muscat, Manama, Doha, and Kuwait. “Small-scale” maritime transport using dhows—traditional Arab wooden boats—has a long tradition in the Persian Gulf. To this day, consumer goods are shipped along the coast to destinations such as Yemen, Pakistan, and Goa using these vessels.
The Best Water Activities
Water sports enthusiasts will be in heaven in the Persian Gulf. Who hasn’t always wanted to fly over the water? With the Flyboard, nothing stands in your way. Standing on the Flyboard, daredevils are catapulted up to nine meters into the air. If you can keep your balance, you can “dance” over the water for minutes on end.
Dubai is known for many superlatives. For adrenaline junkies, the Seabreacher is ready and waiting. This mini-submarine looks like a shark. Anyone who climbs aboard will zoom through the water at 260 PS. The vehicle can reach speeds of up to 100 kilometers per hour and, like a shark, can leap up to six meters out of the water. Deep Dive Dubai is considered one of the newest recreational attractions in the Gulf. Diving takes on a whole new dimension here. The pool is 60 meters deep. Those who dare can take a diving course and explore a sunken city.
Public Beach Dubai: The Most Popular Beaches in Dubai
Dubai’s waterfront location makes it ideal for a beach vacation. With a coastline stretching over 60 kilometers and numerous man-made islands, there is no shortage of beaches. In addition to numerous private hotel beaches, there are also plenty of beach sections that are open to the public.
Al Mamzar Beach Park is located in northern Dubai, not far from the border with the Emirate of Sharjah. Five beach coves line a narrow spit of land. The area is dotted with palm trees and is ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
The La Mer beach district is centrally located. There are two coves between the Jumeirah Mosque and the Dubai Zoo. The beach is easily accessible from the colorfully decorated promenade.
Kite Beach is the perfect spot for active vacationers. It offers ideal conditions for kiteboarders and surfers. Those who prefer a romantic atmosphere can enjoy picturesque sunsets at Umm Suqeim Beach. As the sun sets, the famous luxury hotel Burj Al Arab is bathed in magical light right before your eyes.
Al Sufouh Beach is a hidden gem. The area between Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah is still completely undeveloped. This natural stretch of beach is known to only a few tourists. If you can do without beach chairs and entertainment, you’ll be able to experience Dubai in its most authentic form here.
Photo credit: Depositphotos.com – kadet26 (JULIA BOITSOVA)
