Reviewed by Dr. Sarah Yosry
Updated on 24/09/2024
Reading time 4 min.
Overview
Severity: Low
Life stage: All
Dubai is not only a paradise for leisure and luxury—it’s increasingly welcoming to the world of pet owners who want to go on outdoor adventures with their beloved dogs too. Though numerous public beaches prohibit dogs, some specific spots and exclusive beach clubs currently feature Dubai’s pet beaches, where dogs can run, swim, and bask with their owners under the bright sunshine.
Whether it’s the resident or the visitor who wishes to use the coastline with his or her four-legged friend, there are safe, picturesque options to indulge in. Within this guide, we shall feature the best beaches for dogs to use, along with guidelines, facilities, and everything that you should take along to enjoy the beach day with your pet to the fullest. Prepare for the wagging of the tails, sandy paws, and unforgettable fun at the beach.
List of Best Pet-Friendly Beaches in Dubai
The Pointe: A Pet Haven at the Coast
Located along the beautiful Palm Jumeirah, The Pointe is one of the most dog-friendly places in Dubai. It has a long boardwalk with stunning sea views, perfect for walking your dog. It is open to leashed dogs, and the many cafes set up outside where you can sit with your pet mean you can enjoy the sea views with your companion by your side. It is the place to be for pet owners seeking to enjoy some quiet time along the water with their dogs.
From an animal medical perspective, The Pointe is the best place for exercise and social interaction. It has good walking surfaces that are partially shaded, thus minimizing the chances of heat-related damage to the paws. It’s, however, very important to go there at cooler times, like early mornings or evenings, to prevent heat exhaustion. Bring along fresh water with you and a collapsible bowl, and discourage your pup from ingesting the saltwater, which can cause gastrointestinal problems or salt poisoning.
Notably, The Pointe has the benefit of proximity to Modern Vet Palm Jumeirah, one of Dubai’s most high-tech veterinary clinics. Should there be an emergency—paw injuries, heatstroke, or dehydration, to mention but a few—it has an immediate facility that can attend to such situations. Their skilled veterinarians ensure that pet parents’ anxiety is eased, with both regular and emergency services.
Al Sufouh Beach: A Peaceful Oasis with Hidden Dangers
For those who prefer more peaceful and quiet surroundings, Al Sufouh Beach, or the so-called “Secret Beach,” is an off-the-beaten-path area between the world-famous Burj Al Arab and the Palm. This beach does not officially welcome pets, but is frequently visited by residents, particularly early mornings when the beach is quiet and safe.
The shore does not have any public amenities such as shady resting areas, trash cans, or freshwater stations, so you’ll need to be prepared. Besides, since there is not much human traffic there, nor is the area well-maintained, you can expect sand fleas and other parasites to be lurking around. Dogs should be placed under the flea and tick preventative regimen set by your vet before visiting such sites.
Following any visit to beaches such as Al Sufouh, it is highly recommended to wash your dog’s coat to eliminate sand, salt, and any irritants that may be present. Thick- or double-coated dogs can get hotspots or irritations due to sand being caught between the skin and coat. If you observe your pet scratching repeatedly or licking at paws, it’s best to seek advice from the vet nearest to you immediately.
Palm West Beach: The Gold Standard of Pet Friendliness
Among the best-known beaches that are welcoming to pets in Dubai, Palm West Beach leads the way. Leashed dogs are welcome, and the beachfront is lined with cafes and stores that welcome pets with open arms. You’ll be able to find canine-friendly menus and canopied tables at many of the venues, too.
This beach is perfect for active dogs that prefer walking, snuffling, and splashing around the sea water lightly. This promenade is broad enough to be lined with mostly shaded areas, which makes it suitable for the elderly or joint conditions. That said, since we are veterinarians, we advise against dogs drinking seawater. Ingestion of seawater can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and dehydration. Symptoms of salt toxicity include profuse salivation, lethargy, and, most seriously, seizures.
What makes Palm West Beach so convenient for owners of dogs is the fact that it is situated close to Modern Vet Palm Jumeirah, one of Dubai’s reputable vet clinics that provides full services that range from dental to emergency care. Should your dog accidentally step onto something sharp or contract any medical problem while you are visiting, specialized care is only minutes away.
Kite Beach: An Energy-Packed Tourist Destination
One of Dubai’s most visited, Kite Beach, is abuzz with activity around beach volleyball games, running routes, and mobile eats. Although not officially open to dogs all day, there are areas and mornings where owners take their canines along the less crowded stretches
We caution, however, that the heavy traffic, noise, and populated surroundings can be stressful to some dogs, especially those with anxiety or weak recall training. Beaches such as this one may, at times, feature jellyfish or other ocean creatures that may sting or poison curious-sniffing dogs.
Common veterinary emergencies after visiting the beaches of Kite include footpad burns due to heat, minor cuts, and external dangers from the surroundings. Should your pet become stung by a jellyfish, rinsing the area with seawater (not freshwater) is the first step, followed by not rubbing, then visiting your local vet clinic for assistance. Nearby, Modern Vet Jumeirah provides specialized attention and can treat allergic reactions along with minor external injuries, at the facility itself.
Al Qudra Lakes – Desert Peacefulness with Natural Hurdles
Although not exactly a beach, Al Qudra Lakes feature sandy shores, water views, and peaceful surroundings ideal for off-leash strolls and dogs’ discovery. Al Qudra Lakes are favored among hikers and the outdoorsy type who seek to involve their furry friends in the adventure.
Nevertheless, vets remind owners that the great outdoors has dangers lurking behind the beauty. Al Qudra’s remoteness means that access to emergency vet clinics can be delayed, so having a first-aid kit prepared and knowledge of basic emergency procedures is imperative. Here, dangers include snake bites, insect stings, heat stroke, and ingesting contaminated water.
Ensure your pet is vaccinated to prevent diseases such as leptospirosis and treated periodically for internal and external parasites before any outdoor activity. If you are not quite sure that your dog is prepared to go outdoors, it is advisable to make an appointment at one of the veterinary clinics around you, such as Modern Vet Dubai, for a preventive care session.
Why Should Veterinary Access be a Top Priority for Beach Days?
As any good pet owner will tell you, accidents can occur even under the closest of supervision. That’s why it’s so important to be mindful of the local vet clinic while visiting the beach. Whether it’s a minor paw wound, a jellyfish sting, or symptoms of heatstroke, immediate veterinary attention can be the deciding factor. Modern Vet has multiple vet clinics in Dubai, ensuring you’re never far from expert help. Their clinics offer 24/7 emergency services, digital diagnostics, surgery, and telemedicine consultations, making them the trusted name for pet care across the city. Whether you’re near The Pointe, Jumeirah, or JVC, there’s likely a Modern Vet location nearby.
Conclusion
Dubai presents beautiful beach activities for pets and owners alike. Walking along The Pointe or venturing into Al Qudra’s lakes, it is imperative to prepare with the well-being of your dog at heart. Hydration, heat protection, parasite management, and access to veterinarians are all involved with a responsible beach outing.
For personal advice or to book an appointment to assess beach-readiness, we highly recommend Modern Vet Hospital. They have several branches located around Dubai and employ several experienced veterinarians, providing emergency care, alongside regular care, for dogs of all sizes and breeds.
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Writen by
Dr.Sarah Yosry
DVM
A product of a rich Australian/Egyptian heritage, Dr. Sarah Yosry stands as a testament to the union of diverse cultures and a shared love for animals.