Dubai Marina is the true definition of sophistication and uniqueness. It is a district of Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) that covers more than 4.6 million square metres of waterfront.
Dubai Marina is a man-made marina that was built along a 2-mile stretch of the Persian Gulf coastline.
Plan a trip here and explore this rich and exciting residential area. Soak up the sun on the sandy beach at Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR).
Stroll along the beautiful Dubai Marina promenade, lined with cosmopolitan restaurants, cafes and ephemeral craft markets.
Shop till you drop at the Dubai Marina Mall, which features luxury fashion chains and brands.
Cruise through the marina in the high-end yachts.
Marvel at the spectacular skyscrapers that offer stunning views of the marina; each with its own unique architectural style.
Read on to find out more about the many things to do in Dubai Marina, United Arab Emirates.
Dubai - where elegance meets fun
Holidays are a well-deserved break from the hustle and bustle of life every now and then. Plan a trip here to bask in the sun on beautiful sandy beaches, indulge in tasty cuisine, take that dream cruise, go skydiving and much more.
Live this sophisticated and unforgettable experience using our list of things to do in Dubai.
What to see and do in Dubai Marina?
Stretching from Al Sufouh Road to Dubai Media City, Dubai Marina includes The Beach and Jumeirah Beach Residence.
Due to its proximity to the open sea, if you are lucky you may spot sharks and whales entering the marina during the migration season.
There are many attractions in Dubai Marina, from the beach to residential complexes such as :
Al Sahab
Al Majara
Marina Quays
Marina Promenade
Park Island
1. Stroll along the Dubai Marina Walk
Dubai Marina Walk is a 7km palm-lined waterfront promenade with a green landscape. Stroll along while admiring the view of the emerald waterway with luxury yachts passing by.
Dine in one of the many cafes and restaurants from around the world that will satisfy your culinary cravings. Marvel at the incredible architecture of the many skyscrapers in this man-made marina. Shop at the Dubai Marina Mall, home to leading fashion, beauty, electronics and home décor brands.
Be sure to take photos at the beautiful Dubai Marina Fountain. After a day of exploring, relax in one of the spas along the promenade.
2. Have fun yachting at Dubai Marina Yacht Club
Feel the excitement that comes with dining on a yacht or just being in one on the water.
Charter a private yacht and enjoy a luxury cruise on the water. The Dubai Marina Yacht Club offers exclusive bars, restaurants and lounges on a man-made canal.
During the day it is a yachtsman's paradise and at night it transforms into a vibrant waterfront.
It also provides sheltered mooring for more than five hundred yachts and assistance with berthing and navigation permits for their marine professionals.
3. Dine at Pier 7
Visit Pier 7 for a fine dining experience. The building has seven different restaurants on each floor, each varying in taste, presentation, ambience and style.
Enjoy the ambience and stunning views of the city's skyline, the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai Marina.
Choose between indoor dining or a unique outdoor dining experience. The food served is of high quality and very tasty.
Here you will certainly get your money's worth. Explore Pier 7 to sample different cuisines.
4. Browse the artworks at Gallery One
Gallery One features beautiful artworks and gifts from famous and emerging artists.
Here you will find many amazing authentic and original artworks. Their products include gift art that comes in a beautiful gift box; wall art and Clarus Editions which are artworks and photographs of renowned creative talents and posters.
Brighten up your home with these amazing pieces or give this great gift to your friend.
5. Go on an incredible tour with Dream Explorer LLC
This travel agency specialises in organising adventurous tours of the sea, air and desert. Go on a desert safari in a powerful hummer. Climb aboard a buggy equipped with roll cages, seat belts, bucket seats, night lights, fire extinguisher, helmet and a backup vehicle in case of mechanical problems during your desert exploration.
Other options include hot air ballooning, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and jet boat riding. Prepare yourself for a thrilling adventure by joining one of these tours.
6. Enjoy water sports at the Dubai International Marine Club
Located on the Dubai waterfront, the Dubai International Marine Club is the home of water sports in Dubai. Each season, they host around 40 local, national and international water sports events. Enjoy watching these events while you cheer on your favourite team.
It also has a marina that can accommodate over 300 yachts, a heliport, a sailing school and six showrooms. It's a fun way to spend your day.
7. Skydive from incredible heights with Skydive Dubai
Feel the adrenaline rush with Skydive Dubai. Tandem skydiving allows you to experience freefall at over 120mph (193.1km/h) while securely attached to an experienced instructor.
Choose the option of a gyrocopter flight which will take you on a 20 minute ride to 1,500 feet (457.2 metres) while enjoying great aerial views of Dubai's highlights such as:
Ain Dubai
Palm Jumeirah Island
Atlantis The Palm
Burj Al Arab.
You can also learn how to skydive from instructors who use the latest training techniques. Don't miss out on this amazing experience.
8. Pamper yourself at The Westin Heavenly Spa
Enjoy a day of pampering at the Westin Heavenly Spa. Leave your stress behind as you soothe your mind, body and soul at this incredible spa. Services include massages, body treatments, facials and Shellac nail treatments.
The spa also features saunas, steam rooms, a whirlpool and a gym. Their treatments use products from the award-winning British skincare brand, ELEMIS.
Whichever treatment you choose, you can be sure to feel beautiful inside and out. This is the best place to get pampered that will leave you feeling rejuvenated.
9. Shop for variety at Dubai Marina Mall
A shopping haven, Dubai Marina Mall is the place to be. Start by admiring the mall's stunning architectural design.
Spanning four levels, the mall has over 140 outlets, including high-end fashion brands, couture, restaurants overlooking the water, cinemas and a supermarket.
Shops here include Adidas, ALDO, American Vintage, Bath & Body Works, Destination Maternity, Hugo Boss and MAC, to name but a few.
Spend your hard-earned money shopping at these amazing shops. The joy that comes with getting new things is immeasurable.
When you get tired, take a break at one of the 22 restaurants:
Starbucks
KFC
Tortilla
YO! Sushi
As we all know, shopping itself is quite therapeutic.
10. Soak up the sun at JBR Beach
Imagine fine sand on a white sandy beach, a gentle cool breeze blowing around you, emerald waters, incredible views and just the right amount of sunshine.
Jumeirah Beach Residence offers just that! Soak up the sun while taking in the stunning views or enjoy a swim in the warm waters. You can also indulge in some water sports activities.
Marvel at the beautiful and luxurious beachfront hotels such as Burj Al Arab. A day in the sun with a breathtaking view as your backdrop is all you need for your holiday.
11. Book a night at the luxurious Address Dubai Marina
Overlooking the world's largest man-made marina and waterfront development, this hotel combines sophistication and comfort. Staying at this hotel is truly a dream.
Relax in the elegant rooms with impeccably designed furnishings and the finest linens you can get.
Dine in the elegant restaurant serving haute cuisine. Pamper yourself at the spa with a variety of treatments and aromatherapy therapies or keep fit in the modern fitness centre.
Its level four pool opens up to a breathtaking view of the marina. To top it all off, enjoy the convenience of shopping at the Dubai Marina Mall which is directly connected to the hotel.
12. Go for an unforgettable dinner cruise
Enjoy a magical dinner cruise that lasts approximately two to three hours on this tour. Be picked up from your hotel, then head to the Dubai Marina Yacht Club.
Relax on board the traditional-style wooden dhow that takes you to the best spots with captivating views.
The illuminated skyscrapers bring out a romantic atmosphere. Enjoy a delicious buffet dinner of international and Emirati dishes and watch a Tanoura dance performance while enjoying your meal. Dining by moonlight adds to the magical experience. The tour then concludes with a drop-off at your central hotel.
13. Discover the highlights of Dubai on this speedboat tour
Enjoy a 90-minute sightseeing tour departing from the Dubai Marina. After a safety briefing, prepare to be wowed.
Discover the highlights of Dubai such as:
Dubai Eye Wheel
Palm Jumeirah
Atlantis
Burj Al Arab
Harbour Project
The Palm and its hotels
Dubai Rulers Private Island
Dubai Marina.
14. AquaFun Water Park
Dubai never fails to offer extraordinary things to its tourists. And yet another one on our list is AquaFun Water Park, the largest inflatable water park in the world. Covering a total area of 2,700 sqm, there are 74 different games to climb, jump and slide around in. This water park is ideal if you want to have fun with your friends or family, and it's the perfect place for beach activities.
15. Camel ride
Take a camel ride at Marina Beach Dubai and JBR Beach, an affordable option to admire the skyline and sea views from atop Arabian camels adorned with vibrant tassels and ornate blankets. It may take some time to adjust to the pace, but once you get used to it, you'll definitely enjoy the ride.
16. Ski Dubai
An indoor ski resort spread over an area of 22,500 square metres, it is part of the Mall of the Emirates, which is one of the largest shopping malls in the world. The park generally maintains a temperature of -1 degree to 2 degrees Celsius throughout the year and is one of the best places to indulge in recreational activities with your friends or family. This is one of the best things to do in Dubai Marina, so be sure to add it to your list.
17. Dancing at Zero Gravity Dubai
A nightclub with a pool and beach bar offering a dynamic menu for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Zero Gravity is the best place to enjoy Dubai's nightlife, hosting the best DJ nights in Dubai.
This place is a must visit on your next visit to Dubai. The nightclub offers an ultra-modern two-tiered restaurant, premium service and refreshments.
Where to eat at Dubai Marina?
If you want something special after having a coffee at Cavalli Caffe or a Mediterranean grilled calamari at Eat Greek and Mega Burger at the counter, here are some of the Dubai Marina restaurants you can check out:
1. Operation Falafel
Sit at the open-air tables and enjoy Arabian fast food like Zaatar, Pita Falafel and Choco Banana along Marina Beach at Operation Falafel. The Zingy food and enthusiastic crowd will enhance your experience at this multi-cuisine restaurant. Even if you're on a diet, you can find an impressive variety to satisfy your hunger.
Location: Jumeirah Beach Residence 2, near Sofitel Hotel - The Walk - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Hours: Open 24 hours
Cost for two: 40.5 euros.
2. Saarangaa Bhojan Shala
Enjoy spicy Indian buffet specialities at affordable prices. Masala Dosa, Paneer Naan and Vegetable Biryani are the specialities. This Indian food chain is not only famous in India but also in Dubai and is a good way to say goodbye to nostalgia and homesickness when you are in Dubai for a long time.
Location: Floor G, Marina Pearl Building, Dubai Marina, behind RAK Bank - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Hours: 7:30am - 11:30pm
Cost for two: 21 euros.
3. Grill Kebab 44
Famous for its curry and tandoor dishes, here you can try the paneer tikka, garlic naan and butter chicken, Kebab Grill 44 is an outstanding restaurant in Dubai Marina.
The food is both aesthetically pleasing and tasteful; with succulent tikkas and juicy kebabs.
Location: Shop 32, Ground Floor, Bay Avenue, Executive Towers H, Business Bay, Dubai
Time: 10:00am - 12:00pm
Cost for two: €40.
4. 800 pizzas
Aside from all the fancy and extravagant restaurants, this is a pizzeria in Dubai that has been serving authentic Italian pizzas since 2007. Famous for its wood-fired ovens, this place is known for serving thin, light and crispy Roman-style pizzas from morning to night.
The place stays open until 4am on Thursdays and Fridays and is the best place to try a traditional and authentic Italian pizza.
Location: Al Wasl Rd - Al Bada'a - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Hours: 11am to 11.30pm and 11am to 4am (Thursdays and Fridays)
Cost for two: 46 euros for two people.
5. La Carnita
Serving authentic Mexican cuisine and margaritas, La Carnita is one of the best places to eat in Dubai.
The restaurant has a unique touch and is designed by some of the best street style artists.
The restaurant has a dynamic menu and serves some of the most mouth-watering tacos and churros. Try it the next time you are in Dubai to enjoy the best of Mexican cuisine.
Location: Intercontinental - Dubai Marina - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Time: 4pm to 1am
Cost for two: 98 euros for two people.
Where to stay in Dubai Marina?
Depending on your budget and desire for luxury amenities, the following hotels may be your best choices:
1. Adress Marina Hotel Dubai
To make the most of the 5-star facilities and be impressed by the no-frills interior design; this long-established hotel with a gym, pool and four restaurants will be perfect.
To justify its name, the hotel has all the popular dining and entertainment venues within walking distance.
Location: Al Marsa St - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
2. Intercontinental Dubai Marina
Located on the Marina Promenade, Intercontinental Dubai Marina is your best bet if you want to spend your time marvelling at the beautiful skyline and the vibrant lifestyle of the area from your balcony. Needless to say, the view is magnificent enough to spend a long time admiring it.
Location: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
3. Rixos Premium Dubai JBR
Why not stay right on the waterfront and spend time under the parasols and sunbeds on the soft white sand?
The best feature of this hotel is its contemporary features and the underground pub-style bar that sells delicious burgers.
Even the alcohol served here is of an eclectic variety and can be enjoyed with the breathtaking view of the Dubai Marina.
Location: -Jumeirah Beach Residence، The Walk - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4. Hilton Dubai Jumeirah
If you're wondering about rooftop bars in Dubai Marina, the Pure Sky Lounge at Hilton Dubai Jumeirah will be your best bet for sipping a drink or two under the glittering view of the skyline after sunset. The hotel offers free shuttle services and has 2 swimming pools and a private beach near Jumeirah.
Location: The Walk - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
5. Marina Hotel Apartments
Located 5 minutes from the Dubai Marina Mall and 10 minutes from the Jumeirah Residence, this hotel is conveniently located near Damac Properties Metro Station, just across the street from the Marina tram station.
It is the perfect place to enjoy Dubai's luxurious lifestyle and first-class services.
Location: Marina Walk, Dubai Marina near the waterfront - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
6. The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina
Beautifully located on Jumeirah Beach, offering a beachfront location and some of the best views of the beach and Palm Island. The neoclassical architecture of the property adds life to this 5-star luxury resort. Enjoy world-class services and facilities during your stay here.
Location: D94 - Dubai Marina - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Dubai Marina Transport
Often dubbed 'New Dubai' for its chic waterfront development and sophisticated urban lifestyle, Dubai Marina is accessible by the following means of transport:
The Dubai Metro service connects the marina to other major cities.
Pedestrians can access the walkways on Sheikh Zayed Road to reach the area on either side of the road.
The 9-mile long Al Sufouh Tramway connects the Mall of the Emirates and Burj Al Arab to the Dubai Marina and has an interchange facility with three metro stations (red line) as well as a monorail connection between Palm Jumeirah and Al Sufouh Road.
From Dubai Airport, you can take the metro to the Dubai Marina, which takes about 45 minutes. By private car or taxi, it will take about 25 minutes, if there is not much traffic; on SkyBus, it will take about 2 hours to reach the Marina.
Enjoy an upscale lifestyle, seaside ambience and a magical gulf-front skyline at Dubai Marina.
The easiest way to enjoy all this at the best price would be to get a tailor-made Dubai itinerary that meets all your needs.
FAQ
Is the Dubai Marina artificial?
Yes, Dubai Marina is a city of man-made canals that stretches along a three-kilometre stretch of the Arabian Gulf.
What is JBR Dubai?
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is a residential development area located against the Persian Gulf in Dubai and is approximately 1.7 kilometres long.
How many buildings are there in JBR?
JBR consists of 40 towers including 35 residential towers and 5 hotel towers.
What is the Dubai Marina known for?
Dubai Marina is Dubai's sought-after neighbourhood and is famous for its luxurious lifestyle, entertainment options, shopping malls and luxury skyscrapers. Offering some of the best views to its residents, Dubai Marina is quite famous among tourists.
Why is the water in Dubai Marina brown?
The brown colour of the water is caused by a chemical called bentonite. However, bentonite has no harmful effect on health and the environment, it simply changes the colour of the water.
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