Dubai’s coastline is one of its greatest assets. Warm, clear, mostly calm water stretches along kilometres of beaches, with some of the world’s most famous landmarks as a backdrop. Ride a jet ski past Burj Al Arab, float high above Palm Jumeirah under a parachute, rise out of the water on a jet-powered flyboard, paddle quietly through mangrove channels or race across the waves on an inflatable banana boat with your friends. Whatever your age, budget or appetite for adventure, there is a water sport in Dubai for you.
This Dubai water sports guide compares all the most popular activities, explaining what each one involves, who it suits, how much it costs, the minimum ages, the best time of year and day, what to wear, how to stay safe and how to combine water sports with other experiences during your trip.
Tip: Want to try more than one activity? Ask about combinations, such as a yacht and jet ski combo, which lets you cruise on a private yacht while a jet ski follows for your group to take turns.
Water sports at a glance
| Activity | Price from | Thrill level | Minimum age (approx.) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jet ski | AED 350 | High | 16 to drive, younger as passenger | Speed and landmark views |
| Parasailing | AED 300 | Medium | Around 6 with an adult | Aerial views, couples |
| Flyboarding | AED 450 | High | Around 12 | Adventure seekers |
| Stand-up paddle boarding | AED 120 | Low | Around 8 | Relaxation, fitness |
| Mangrove kayaking | AED 150 | Low | Around 6 with an adult | Nature lovers, families |
| Banana boat | AED 75 | Medium | Around 6 | Groups and families |
| Deep sea fishing | AED 1,200 per boat | Low | All ages | Groups, anglers |
Minimum ages and weight limits vary by operator and activity. We confirm the exact requirements when you book.
Jet skiing
Jet skiing is the most popular water sport in Dubai, and for good reason. After a short safety briefing, you ride your own jet ski behind a guide, who leads you along the coast to the city’s most famous landmarks. Depending on the route and duration, you can see Burj Al Arab, the Palm Jumeirah crescent, Atlantis The Palm, Dubai Marina’s skyline and Ain Dubai. The guide stops at the best viewpoints so you can take photos.
What to expect: jet skis are easy to ride, with a throttle and handlebars. You do not need previous experience. Most tours last 30 minutes, one hour or longer, with longer rides covering more landmarks. Two people can share one jet ski, which halves the cost.
Who it suits: anyone who enjoys speed and wants a unique view of Dubai’s skyline. Drivers usually need to be 16 or older, while younger children may ride as passengers with an adult.
Book: jet ski ride with Burj Al Arab views, from AED 350.
Good to know: jet skis must follow designated routes and stay a safe distance from the shore, swimmers and other boats. Always follow your guide’s instructions.
Parasailing
Parasailing lifts you high above the sea, attached to a parachute towed by a speedboat. You take off from the back of the boat and rise gently into the air, where you float in silence with a breathtaking view of Palm Jumeirah, the coastline and the skyline. It is surprisingly calm and peaceful. You can fly solo, in pairs or even in threes, depending on the operator and your combined weight.
What to expect: you sit in a harness attached to the parachute and the boat slowly lets out the line until you are high above the water. The flight lasts around 10 to 15 minutes. You take off and land on the boat, usually staying dry, although some operators offer a gentle dip in the water on request.
Who it suits: couples, families with older children and anyone who wants a bird’s-eye view without the intensity of skydiving.
Book: parasailing in Dubai, from AED 300.
Flyboarding
Flyboarding is one of the most exciting water sports in Dubai. You stand on a board attached by a long hose to a jet ski, which pumps water through the hose and out through nozzles under your feet. The force lifts you out of the water, and you can rise several metres into the air, dive back into the sea like a dolphin and even perform flips once you have practised.
What to expect: after a briefing, an instructor controls the power from the jet ski while you learn to balance. Most people manage to stand and hover within the first few minutes. Sessions usually last 20 to 30 minutes, and it is more tiring than it looks.
Who it suits: active travellers with good balance and a sense of adventure. A reasonable level of fitness helps.
Book: flyboarding in Dubai, from AED 450.
Stand-up paddle boarding
Stand-up paddle boarding, or SUP, is a calm, relaxing way to enjoy the water. You stand on a large, stable board and use a long paddle to glide across the surface. In Dubai, you can paddle in sheltered waters along the beaches, with views of the skyline, and early in the morning the sea is often as smooth as glass.
What to expect: a short lesson teaches you how to stand, balance and paddle. Most beginners are standing within minutes. Falling in is part of the fun and the water is warm. Sessions usually last one hour.
Who it suits: families, beginners, couples and anyone who wants a gentle workout on the water.
Book: stand-up paddle boarding, from AED 120.
Kayaking
Kayaking in the UAE offers two very different experiences: sea kayaking along the coast with views of the skyline, and peaceful paddling through mangrove forests. The mangroves in Abu Dhabi are among the most beautiful places to kayak in the region. The trees provide shelter and shade, and you may see herons, crabs, fish and, sometimes, turtles.
What to expect: a guided tour usually lasts about 90 minutes to two hours. Double kayaks are ideal for beginners and couples.
Who it suits: nature lovers, families with children and photographers.
Book: mangrove kayaking in Abu Dhabi, from AED 150. For mountain kayaking on a turquoise lake, read our Hatta day trip guide.
Banana boat rides
A banana boat is a long inflatable boat towed behind a speedboat, with riders sitting in a row. The driver speeds up, turns and bounces across the waves, and the ride usually ends with everyone falling into the sea, laughing.
What to expect: a ride of around 10 to 15 minutes. Life jackets are provided and you will get wet.
Who it suits: groups of friends, families with children and anyone looking for simple, noisy fun.
Book: banana boat ride, from AED 75 per person.
Deep sea fishing
Head out into the open water of the Gulf on a fishing boat with an experienced captain and crew. Depending on the season, you may catch kingfish, barracuda, tuna, hamour (grouper) or queenfish. All the equipment and bait are provided, and the crew help beginners with everything from baiting the hook to reeling in the catch.
What to expect: trips usually last four hours or longer and are priced per boat, so they are best value for groups. Your catch can sometimes be cleaned and prepared for you to take home or have cooked at a restaurant.
Who it suits: groups, families, anglers and anyone who enjoys a slower day on the water.
Book: deep sea fishing trip, from AED 1,200 per boat.
Which water sport is right for you?
| Traveller | Best choices | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Thrill seekers | Flyboarding, jet skiing | Speed, power and adrenaline |
| Couples | Parasailing in tandem, jet ski for two | Shared experience and great photos |
| Families with young children | Banana boat, kayaking, paddle boarding | Gentle, fun and safe |
| Groups of friends | Banana boat, yacht and jet ski combo, fishing | Shared fun and lower cost per person |
| Nature lovers | Mangrove kayaking, paddle boarding | Wildlife and peaceful surroundings |
| Photographers | Jet ski tour, parasailing | Landmark views from the water and the air |
| Fitness lovers | Paddle boarding, kayaking | A full-body workout outdoors |
How a jet ski tour works, step by step
Because jet skiing is the most popular water sport in Dubai, here is exactly what to expect on the day:
- Arrive at the meeting point 15 minutes before your slot. We send you the location after booking.
- Check in with your ID and sign a short safety form.
- Store your belongings in the lockers or with the staff. Take your phone only if you have a waterproof pouch.
- Put on your life jacket and listen to the safety briefing, which covers how to start, accelerate, brake, turn and what to do if you fall in.
- Ride with your guide in a line along the coast. The guide sets the pace and stops at viewpoints for photos.
- Return to the base, rinse off and change.
Most riders feel confident within the first few minutes. If you are nervous, ask the guide to keep a gentle pace at first, or share a jet ski with someone more experienced.
A perfect water sports day in Dubai
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Paddle boarding on calm water with Burj Al Arab views |
| 9:30 AM | Breakfast at a beachside café |
| 10:30 AM | Jet ski tour of Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina |
| 12:00 PM | Parasailing over the Palm |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch at JBR |
| 3:00 PM | Rest at the hotel |
| 6:00 PM | Sunset on a shared yacht |
This plan is best from October to April. In summer, finish the water activities by 11 AM and keep the afternoon for indoor attractions.
How much should you budget?
Water sports prices depend on the activity, the duration and whether you share. Here are some example costs to help you plan:
| Plan | What it includes | Approximate cost |
|---|---|---|
| Budget fun for a family of four | Banana boat ride for everyone | AED 300 |
| Couple’s adventure | Shared 30-minute jet ski plus tandem parasailing | AED 950 |
| Thrill seeker’s morning | Flyboarding session plus 30-minute jet ski | AED 800 |
| Relaxed nature morning | Mangrove kayaking for two | AED 300 |
| Group of eight friends | Deep sea fishing trip, boat shared | From AED 150 per person |
Sharing a jet ski, a fishing boat or a yacht is the easiest way to reduce the cost per person. Booking in advance online also helps, as walk-in prices at the beach are often higher.
Mistakes to avoid
- Booking from touts on the beach. Unlicensed operators may lack insurance or proper safety equipment.
- Going out in the midday heat in summer. Book morning slots instead.
- Forgetting sun protection. Reflection from the water doubles your sun exposure.
- Bringing valuables. Leave jewellery and unnecessary items at the hotel.
- Ignoring the weather. Check the forecast and trust the operator if they postpone because of wind.
Group bookings and private sessions
Water sports are a fantastic activity for birthdays, bachelor and bachelorette parties, team-building days and family celebrations. For groups, we can arrange private sessions with dedicated guides, multiple jet skis riding together, banana boat races, and packages combining a yacht, jet skis and food on board. Group discounts may be available, depending on the size of your group and the date. Tell us your plans through our contact page, and we will put together a quote.
Respecting the sea and marine life
Dubai’s coastal waters are home to turtles, dolphins, rays and many species of fish, as well as fragile habitats such as mangroves and coral. When enjoying water sports, keep a respectful distance from any wildlife you see, never feed or touch marine animals, and avoid standing on coral or disturbing the seabed. Use reef-safe sunscreen where possible and take all rubbish back to shore. In the mangroves, keep noise down and stay in the channels so that birds and other wildlife are not disturbed.
Capturing the moment
Many operators offer photo and video packages, with a photographer on a boat or a camera mounted on the jet ski. These are especially popular for parasailing and flyboarding, where it is difficult to take your own photos. If you bring your own camera, use a floating strap or waterproof case, and agree with your group who will take photos at each stop. The best shots of jet skis with Burj Al Arab or Atlantis in the background are taken in the morning, when the light is soft and the sea is calm.
Other water experiences in Dubai
- Yacht trips: relax on a private or shared yacht with swimming stops. Read our yacht rental guide.
- Dhow cruises: dinner on a traditional wooden boat. Compare options in our guide to the Dubai Marina vs Creek dhow cruise.
- Water parks: slides and wave pools at Aquaventure, Wild Wadi and Yas Waterworld. See our theme parks guide.
- Scuba diving and snorkelling: possible in Dubai and especially on the east coast in Fujairah. Book our Fujairah east coast day trip.
- Kitesurfing and wakeboarding: available at specialist beaches and centres for experienced riders.
Best time for water sports in Dubai
Time of year
Water sports run all year round. From October to April, the weather is warm and pleasant, and the sea is comfortable. From May to September, the air is very hot and the sea is extremely warm, so book early morning sessions.
| Season | Sea temperature | Air temperature | Advice |
|---|---|---|---|
| October to April | 22°C to 28°C | 23°C to 33°C | Ideal for all water sports |
| May to September | 29°C to 34°C | 35°C to 45°C | Morning sessions only |
Time of day
Mornings usually bring the calmest water and the softest light, which is perfect for jet skiing, paddle boarding and photography. Winds often pick up in the afternoon, making the sea choppier. Sunset sessions are beautiful for jet skiing and parasailing.
Good to know: water sports may be cancelled or rescheduled if the coastguard issues a warning for strong winds or high waves. Safety always comes first, and we will rebook or refund you according to our booking terms.
Where to do water sports in Dubai
Most water sports take place along the coast between Dubai Marina, JBR, Palm Jumeirah and Jumeirah Beach.
- Dubai Marina and JBR: jet skis, parasailing, flyboarding, banana boats and yacht trips.
- Palm Jumeirah: parasailing with views of the Palm and Atlantis, jet skiing and paddle boarding.
- Jumeirah and Umm Suqeim: paddle boarding and kayaking with views of Burj Al Arab.
- Abu Dhabi’s mangroves: kayaking and paddle boarding in sheltered waters.
- Fujairah: snorkelling and diving on the east coast.
What to wear and bring
- Swimwear and a rash guard or swim shirt for sun protection
- Water shoes for rocky areas and paddle boarding
- Waterproof sunscreen, applied before you arrive
- Sunglasses with a strap
- A towel and a change of clothes
- A waterproof phone pouch, if you want to take photos
- ID, as some operators need it for registration
Modest clothing is appropriate when walking away from the beach, as swimwear should be worn only on the beach and in the water.
Safety tips
- Always wear a life jacket when required; it is provided by every licensed operator.
- Listen carefully to the safety briefing and follow your guide or instructor.
- Tell the operator about health conditions, pregnancy or recent surgery before taking part.
- Do not take part after eating a heavy meal or if you feel unwell.
- Stay hydrated, as sun and exercise dehydrate you quickly.
- Book only with licensed operators, who are insured and follow coastguard rules.
- Respect the routes and speed limits for jet skis.
Important: all water sports booked through Horizon Heights Travel are operated by licensed partners who follow Dubai’s maritime safety regulations.
Water sports with children
Many water sports are suitable for children. Banana boats, kayaking, paddle boarding and parasailing with a parent are popular with families. Children usually ride as passengers on jet skis rather than driving. Always check the minimum age and weight requirements, and make sure children wear properly fitted life jackets. For more family ideas, read our guide to things to do in Dubai with family.
Combining water sports with other activities
Water sports make a great morning activity, leaving the afternoon free for rest and the evening for something different. A popular plan is a jet ski ride in the morning, lunch at JBR, an afternoon at the hotel and an evening desert safari. For adventure lovers, combine flyboarding with skydiving over the Palm or the XLine Dubai Marina zipline. See all our water activities.
Book water sports in Dubai
Frequently asked questions
What is the best water sport in Dubai for beginners?
Stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking and banana boats are ideal for beginners. Jet skiing is also easy to learn with a short briefing and a guide.
How much does a jet ski cost in Dubai?
Guided jet ski rides start from about AED 350 for 30 minutes. Longer rides that cover more landmarks cost more.
Do I need a licence to ride a jet ski in Dubai?
No licence is needed for guided jet ski tours. You ride behind a licensed guide after a safety briefing.
Can children do water sports in Dubai?
Yes. Many activities, including banana boats, kayaking and paddle boarding, are suitable for children. Minimum ages and weight limits apply to some activities.
Is parasailing safe in Dubai?
Yes, when booked with a licensed operator. Parasailing uses certified equipment and trained crews, and flights are cancelled in strong winds.
When is the best time for water sports in Dubai?
October to April offers the best conditions. In summer, choose early morning sessions to avoid the heat.
Are water sports open in summer?
Yes. Most water sports run all year. In summer, morning sessions are recommended, as the sea is calmer and the heat is easier to manage before midday.
Can I do water sports if I cannot swim?
Life jackets are worn on all water sports, and some activities such as parasailing and jet skiing as a passenger are possible for non-swimmers. Tell the operator before you start.
