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Swimming in Abu Dhabi is an experience that cannot be passed up. An archipelago made up of hundreds of islands, no matter whether you’re staying in one of the city’s many world-class hotels with their own beachfront facilities, visiting one of the capital’s amazing public or club beaches, or joining a popular boat tour that includes a swimming stop off one of the emirate’s islands, you’ll relish in the freedom of Abu Dhabi’s warm, safe waters. If you're looking where to swim in Abu Dhabi, look no further.

One of the top spots to make a splash is just off Abu Dhabi’s landmark Corniche. You can’t swim out very far; floating fences keep you within 40 metres of the beach, and there are plenty of lifeguards around. Yas Island’s hotels and hotel apartments can enjoy complimentary access to the island’s crystal clear waters and natural mangrove surrounds. The private Saadiyat Beach Club is the perfect place to get away with family and friends and just relax for the day. Explore more places to go below including more information about snorkelling, diving and beach clubs in Abu Dhabi.

Beaches

A swim in the glittering waters of the Arabian Gulf is a unique experience. The waters are the perfect temperature all year round and the scenery is stunning. Many beaches in Abu Dhabi hold the 'Blue Flag' which signifies that they are eco-friendly. The Corniche Beach is an 8km stretch of shoreline in the heart of the city, Saadiyat Island is where you'll see uninterrupted ocean views and wildlife, meanwhile over on Nurai Island, you can experience the most luxurious of beaches!

Sports Clubs

If lane swimming is more your thing, keep fit at one of many sports clubs in Abu Dhabi. Even while you're enjoying your holiday in Abu Dhabi, there are many locations where you can stick to your fitness regime and stay fit in the water.

Snorkelling & Diving

As you can imagine, Abu Dhabi has many great diving sites and they are easily accessible. Find them all around the emirate, including wreck dives, deep-water dives and reef dives. It is possible to dive year-round in the warm seas, and there’s an abundance of marine life, including barracuda, spotted eagle rays, stingrays and much more.

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Frequently asked questions about swimming in Abu Dhabi

Yes, there are many places to swim in Abu Dhabi. There are public beaches on the Corniche, Saadiyat Island and located around the city. You can also pay to enter private hotel beaches or enjoy an array of pool clubs all around the Emirate.

Yes, the 8km stretch of shoreline is partly open to the public. You can swim 40m away from the shore and lifeguards are on duty to keep you safe.

Abu Dhabi has some of the best beaches in the world. They are known for their outstanding beauty, sustainability and safety.

The average water temperature in the seas of Abu Dhabi is around 28°C/82°F. In winter it drops to 20°C/68°F and rises to a maximum of around 34°C/94°F in August.