Kitesurfing in Dubai
Where Warm Winds Meet Luxury Leisure
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Dubai: Where Luxury, Adventure, and Culture Come Together
"A place where you can enjoy a bit of everything for both relaxation and adventure with its sun-kissed beaches and an abundance of leisure activities."
Dubai is the thriving jewel of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This dynamic city offers a perfect blend of futuristic innovation and timeless Arabian charm. Whether you’re visiting the city for its breathtaking architecture, world-class shopping, or serene beaches, Dubai has something for everyone. In Dubai you can enjoy helicopter flights, skydiving, desert safaris, racetracks and kitesurfing. Water sports are probably the least extreme activities, as it relies on thermal winds and a quiet sea, but with a unique skyline and top-end services that are unique.
Many people stop in Dubai during long-haul flights as part of a layover or stopover. The Dubai International Airport (DXB) is an ideal hub for flying connections, one of the busiest in the world, and many travelers choose to spend time in Dubai before continuing their journey.
Situated on the southern coast of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai is a modern city that rises from the desert, offering both urban excitement and coastal beauty. Famous for its stunning skyline, which includes world-renowned landmarks like The Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Al Arab, it is a place where you can enjoy a bit of everything for both relaxation and adventure with its sun-kissed beaches and an abundance of leisure activities.
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Why Dubai is Great for Kite, Windsurf and Foiling?
- Consistent Winds: Dubai’s light but reliable winds, especially during the cooler months (from November to April), provide good conditions between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m.
- Warm Water: The Arabian Gulf offers warm, clear water year-round, making it a great destination for water sports
- Scenic Views: Kitesurfing in Dubai allows you to experience the stunning views of the city’s iconic skyline, the Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, and more luxury resorts
- Kite Surfing Schools & Rentals: Dubai has numerous kitesurf schools, gear rental shops, and instructors who cater to all skill levels, from beginners to professionals
Top Spots for Kiteboarding, Windsurfing and Wing Foiling
Dubai is also the place of a vibrant watersports scene, with prime spots offering ideal conditions for kitesurfing, windsurfing, foiling and more.
When it’s about the wind speed, Dubai is not comparable with Cape Town’s strong gusts, good for those top pro-riders. But hey, Cape Town is not Dubai either! The city’s consistent winds from 6 to 16 knots during the winter season, the warm weather, and the stunning coastal scenery make it a top destination for kiteboarding enthusiasts from around the world, especially those who are looking for safety and top-end services.
Ready to dive in? Check out the top schools to get started!
Kite Beach
Kite Beach is Dubai’s most famous kite surfing spot, located along the iconic Jumeirah Beach in the heart of the city. The lively beach scene, with stunning views of the Burj Al Arab, adds to the appeal. With wide open spaces, shallow waters, and consistent winds, it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced kiters.
The area is home to a number of kite surf schools, rental shops, and beach cafes and kioskos, making it an excellent spot for both casual riders and those wanting to take lessons. As in many centers around the world also here tourist claiming to be good kiters may be asked to show certifications before they can rent equipment. And if for your friends kite surfing is too extreme, they can opt for a safer paddle-boarding experience or kayaking.
With many events hosted here and because of its picturesque waterfronts, Kite Beach is a hotspot for all types of tourists seeking the perfect beach vibe in Dubai, which is why it’s also one of the busiest beaches around.
Family-Friendly Fun
This public and free-entry beach has got it all also for the whole family, offering a delightful mix of activities that will keep kids entertained (like Splash N Party Water Park, the perfect kids retreat).
Dining and Food Trucks
By the beach you can find also mediterranean and Italian cuisine in restaurants and cafes like Circle Café, Sole Mio Beach Club, Kimbo Espresso Italiano and Lola Beach Cafe. The beachside is also considered the best place for food trucks in Dubai, offering everything from juicy burgers to sushi.
Amenities and Parking
At Kite Beach you can find any amenities for a comfortable beach experience, including shower facilities, restrooms, umbrella rentals, beach lounge chair rentals, towel rentals. Parking in Dubai is generally easy and Kite Beach makes no difference, if you go by car there’s public and private parking all-day.
Kite Beach
Kite Beach is Dubai’s most famous kite surfing spot, located along the iconic Jumeirah Beach in the heart of the city. With wide open spaces, shallow waters, and consistent winds, it’s perfect for both beginners and experienced kiters. The area is also home to a number of kite surf schools, rental shops, and beach cafes, making it an excellent spot for both casual riders and those wanting to take lessons. The lively beach scene, with stunning views of the Burj Al Arab, adds to the appeal.
Nessnass Beach
Located north-east from Kite Beach, Nessnass Beach is another great spot for kiteboarding in Dubai. Also know as Jumeirah Public Beach, it’s a popular spot for families with kite surfers, offering stunning views along with steady winds and crystal-clear waters. You’ll find kiteboarding rentals and lessons here, making it a popular choice for visitors staying at any resorts closed to the beach.
Here you can rent equipment also for paddle-boarding and kayaking. There are some toilets and showers at Nessnass, but it’s not as equipped as other public beaches.
Nessnass Beach
Located north from Kite Beach, Nessnass Beach is another great spot for kiteboarding in Dubai. This beach offers stunning views along with steady winds and crystal-clear waters. It’s more exclusive and quieter than Kite Beach, with fewer crowds. You’ll find kiteboarding rentals and lessons here, making it a popular choice for visitors staying at any resorts closed to the beach.
Weather Conditions, Temperatures And Best Season in Dubai
Chasing the perfect winds in Dubai
The winds in Dubai are usually stronger from late morning until the late afternoon, which is ideal for kiteboarding. Early mornings and evenings tend to have lighter, calmer winds. Wind directions can vary depending on both the location and the time of year. To get the most accurate information, it’s best to check local forecasts or consult with local kite schools and rental shops. For the best kiteboarding experience in Dubai, plan your trip between November and April when the wind conditions are optimal.
Best time to visit for an epic kitesurfing experience!
The ideal season for kiteboarding in Dubai is during the cooler months, typically from November to April.
Perfect kiteboarding season in Dubai: November to April
Consistent Winds:
From November to April, Dubai enjoys reliable, steady winds that are perfect for kiteboarding. The wind speed typically ranges from 6 to 16 knots, which is ideal for both beginners and experienced riders, with some days above 20 knots.
Mild Temperatures:
During these months, the temperature in Dubai is cooler and more pleasant, ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). This makes it far more comfortable to be on the water, as opposed to the scorching heat of the summer months, when temperatures can soar above 40°C (104°F).
Ideal Water Conditions:
The Arabian Gulf remains warm, with water temperatures averaging around 22°C to 26°C (72°F to 79°F), which is very comfortable for kiteboarding. The sea conditions are generally calm, with shallow areas near beaches like Kite Beach and Nassimi Beach being perfect for beginners.
Popular Kiteboarding Events:
Dubai hosts several kiteboarding events during the cooler months, such as the Kite Beach Festival and international competitions, which are excellent opportunities to experience the local kiteboarding community and take part in activities or watch professional events.
Image credit: Eslam Tawakol (source: unsplash.com)
Better skip it: May to September
Extremely Hot Weather:
May to September is Dubai’s summer season, with temperatures frequently exceeding 40°C (104°F). The intense heat can make kiteboarding conditions uncomfortable, both on the beach and on the water.
Unpredictable Winds:
While there are still winds during the summer months, they are often more very light and inconsistent, which makes kiteboarding conditions less ideal.
Sea Conditions:
The water temperature can rise above 30°C (86°F) during the summer months, which is warm but still tolerable. However, the air is so hot and dry that the experience can feel exhausting, and it’s harder to stay hydrated. The humidity can also be very high, which can make outdoor sports less enjoyable.
Kite Schools And Local Hazards in Dubai
Ride the Waves: Top Schools and Rental Shops in Dubai
This is our short list of favorite kite-related services you can find on the main beaches in Dubai
Kite School Dubai
Located in the vibrant Kite Beach, Dubai’s most famous kite surfing spot, KSD (Kite School Dubai) is the most rated kite school of Dubai. Xavier has started the school in 2009. They offer lessons for enthusiasts of all levels. The school is dedicated to providing an unforgettable experience, combining fun-filled days with expert instruction and top-notch equipment rentals. In addition they offer a comprehensive range of activities, including kitesurfing, wingfoil, windsurfing, paddleboarding, and kayaking, catering to the entire family.
To book a class or inquire about rental services, visitors can easily contact the school via phone or direct message.
Website: kitesurf.ae
For more information about this Kite School and Shop visit the dedicated profile on KiteSpot App.
Kite N' Surf
Located in Nessnass beach Kite N’ Surf is one of the leaders when it comes to water sports in Dubai with a crew of passionate watersports enthusiasts. They offer equipment rentals and sales for a comprehensive range of activities, including kitesurfing and a variety of other watersports activities: wingsurfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and other extreme water sports. They are not only a shop, with their certified instructors they can provide also lessons to guide you through your journey until you master the sport you like.
To book a class or inquire about rental services, visitors can easily contact the school via phone or direct message.
Website: kitensurf.ae
For more information about this Kite School and Shop visit the dedicated profile on KiteSpot App.
More Kite Schools in Dubai
Kite Club Dubai
Location: Nessnass Beach
Kitesurf school with certified instructors and a shop and rental service with high-quality kitesurfing materials. The school offers also services around other watersports like Wingsurfing, Stand-Up Paddle and Surfing.
Website: kiteclubdubai.store
For more information about this Kite School and Shop visit the dedicated profile on KiteSpot App.
Dukite
Location: Kite Beach
Dukite is a dynamic kitesurfing hub that offers a variety of school services and products for enthusiasts, beginners and experienced riders. Visitors can explore a wide range of kitesurfing gear and accessories, featuring top brands like Mystic and North.
Website: dukite.com
For more information about this Kite School and Shop visit the dedicated profile on KiteSpot App.
While Kiteboarding in Dubai, Stay Safe with These Tips!
To help you feeling more safe when kiting in Dubai, we’ve put together list of safety tips to ensure a secure and enjoyable kitesurfing experience.
In facts, while kitesurfing there are some potential dangers and risks that riders should be aware of, especially on busy beaches or in more challenging conditions.
Being mindful of these dangers will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Winds and Gusts
Dubai is known for its consistent light winds, which are ideal for kitesurfing with bigger kites. Winds can sometimes pick up over 20 knots, so keep in mind to always enter with the right kite on the water as the gusts may catch inexperienced riders off guard.
Tips:
- Always check wind conditions before going out on the water.
- Be aware of wind shifts, especially if you are near buildings or sand dunes that can create turbulence
Crowded Beaches
Popular kitesurfing spots like Kite Beach and Jumeirah Beach can get crowded, especially during peak seasons, weekends, or public holidays. Riders may be at risk of colliding with other kitesurfers, swimmers, or beachgoers. With multiple kites on the water at once, the risk of tangled lines or accidents increases
Tips:
- Always maintain a safe distance from other kiters, swimmers, and any obstacles.
- Follow local rules and etiquette for kitesurfing, such as right of way and designated zones for kitesurfing
Shallow Waters and Submerged Obstacles
Some of Dubai’s kite beaches, like Kite Beach and Jumeirah Beach, feature shallow waters near the shore, which can present risks such as hidden rocks, reef structures, or sandbars. These obstacles can damage the kite or cause injury if a rider crashes or loses control.
Tips:
- Be cautious when riding near the shore, especially in areas where the water depth changes quickly.
- Learn the layout of the area, including where submerged hazards may be located.
- Avoid jumping too close to the shore where there might be underwater obstacles
Inexperienced Riders
Dubai attracts kite surfers of all skill levels, and beginners may pose a danger to themselves and others if they are not properly trained. Untrained riders are at a higher risk of crashing, losing control, or entangling their kite lines with other surfers’ equipment.
Tips:
- Take lessons from certified kitesurf schools if you’re new to the sport If you’re an experienced rider, always be mindful of beginners on the water and adjust your riding accordingly.
- Never attempt kite surfing without proper training and equipment.
Sun Exposure and Dehydration
Dubai’s intense sun, especially during the warmer months, can lead to dehydration, heat exhaustion, or sunburn. Spending long hours kite surfing without taking precautions can be dangerous for your health.
Tips:
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water before, during, and after your session.
- Use high-SPF sunscreen and wear protective clothing, such as a rash guard or wetsuit, to shield yourself from the sun.
- Avoid surfing during the peak heat hours (12 p.m. to 2 p.m.) when the sun is strongest.
Hotels and Kite Resorts in Dubai
Stay in Style: Dubai's Most Unforgettable Hotels
Dubai’s hospitality is second to none, with luxury hotels and resorts offering exceptional service and breathtaking views of the city’s landmarks.
Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation, Dubai offers a variety of hotels and resorts that cater to kiters, providing easy access to prime kiteboarding beaches, excellent amenities, and a relaxing atmosphere after a day on the water.
Here are some recommended hotels for kiters that combine convenience, comfort, and proximity to top kiteboarding spots:
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Jumeirah Beach Hotel
Proximity to Kite Beach: 10-minute drive
This iconic 5-star hotel offers stunning views of the Burj Al Arab and is located close to Kite Beach, the most popular kitesurfing spot in Dubai. The hotel’s spacious rooms, luxurious amenities, and wide range of dining options make it a perfect base for kite surfers. The resort also has direct beach access and offers various watersports, making it easy to get in and out of the water.
Why it’s great for kiters:
- Close to Kite Beach and Jumeirah Beach (ideal for kiteboarding)
- Private beach access for guests
- On-site watersports center offering rentals and lessons
- Multiple pools and dining options to unwind after a day of kiting
Atlantis The Palm
Proximity to Kite Beach: 20-minute drive
Located on the stunning Palm Jumeirah, the Atlantis The Palm is one of Dubai’s most luxurious and iconic resorts. The hotel’s Nassimi (White) Beach provides direct access to the sea, and the hotel is known for its top-notch facilities, including luxurious rooms, world-class dining, and a private beach.
Why it’s great for kiters:
- Private access the Hotel’s beach
- Iconic location with unparalleled luxury and views
Beach Walk Hotel - Jumeriah
Proximity to Kite Beach: 15-minute walk
If you’re looking for a more practical option, the Beach Walk Hotel – Jumeriah is a perfect choice for kite surfers who want easy access to Kite Beach without the high-end luxury price tag. Still 4 stars hotel but with more affordable prices. Located just a short walk from the main kite spots, the hotel offers spacious rooms and high quality services.
Why it’s great for kiters:
- Located next to Kite Beach
- More affordable option
- Close to kite surf schools and rentals
- Relaxed atmosphere ideal for active travelers
Roda Beach Resort
Proximity to Nessnass Beach: 5-minute walk
If you’re looking for the closest option to Nessnass Beach, the Roda Beach Hotel is your choice. A 4 stars hotel located just a short walk from the main kite spots.
Why it’s great for kiters:
- Located next to Nessnass Beach
- More affordable price
- Close to kite surf schools and rentals
- Relaxed atmosphere ideal for active travelers
Beach Walk Boutique Jumeirah
Proximity to Kite Beach: 10-minute drive
Located right on the waterfront, Beach Walk Boutique Jumeirah offers 3-star accommodations in Dubai, featuring a garden, a terrace, and a restaurant. The accommodation is situated 200 meters from Jumeira Public Beach, 2.8 km from Kite Beach, and 1.3 km from Burj Al Arab. It provides a 24-hour reception, airport transfers, a concierge service, and free WiFi throughout the property.
Why it’s great for kiters:
- Located next to Kite Beach
- More affordable price
- Close to kite surf schools and rentals
- Ideal for active travelers
Tourism Activities, Local Attractions in Dubai
Beyond Kitesurfing: Must-Do Dubai Adventures
"Dubai is an exciting destination for both adventurous travelers and families"
The most common question for water sports enthusiasts visiting a new place is what to do when they’re not on the water. Known for its iconic skyline, world-class shopping, and luxurious resorts, Dubai offers visitors a vibrant, cosmopolitan experience like no other. Explore the opulent malls, indulge in fine dining, and discover the city’s rich history at cultural gems like the Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Historic District.
Dubai is an exciting destination for both adventurous travelers seeking thrill-seeking activities and families looking for fun-filled experiences. Here are the most special attractions in Dubai.
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For Adventurous Travelers
Skydive Dubai (Skydiving Over Palm Jumeirah)
For the ultimate adrenaline rush, Skydive Dubai offers one of the most breathtaking skydiving experiences in the world. Jumping from 13,000 feet above the iconic Palm Jumeirah, you’ll get stunning views of the city’s skyline, desert, and coast as you freefall before opening your parachute.
Best for: Thrill-seekers and experienced skydivers looking for a heart-pounding adventure.
Image credit: Ihjaaz Manarikk (source: unsplash.com)
Desert Safari & Dune Bashing
Dubai’s vast desert is the perfect playground for adventurous activities. Dune bashing in a 4×4, where you race up and down the golden sand dunes, is a must-do. The experience often includes camel rides, sandboarding, and even quad biking through the desert.
Best for: Those who enjoy speed, the thrill of off-roading, and a taste of desert life.
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Flyboarding at Jumeirah Beach
Experience a futuristic water sport with flyboarding. Powered by water jets, flyboarding lets you rise up above the water and perform incredible acrobatic maneuvers, including hovering, diving, and spinning.
Best for: Water sports enthusiasts who love a challenge and want to experience the feeling of flying above the water.
Image credit: Morteza F Shojaei (source: unsplash.com)
Hajar Mountains (Rock Climbing & Hiking)
For those looking to escape the city, the Hajar Mountains offer a more rugged adventure. Rock climbing, trekking, and mountain biking are popular activities, with stunning views of valleys, wadis, and natural landscapes.
Best for: Hikers and climbers looking for a more rugged outdoor experience away from the urban environment.
Check this out at timeoutabudhabi.com
Image credit: Time Out Abu Dhabi (source: timeoutabudhabi.com)
Jet Skiing Around the Burj Al Arab
The Burj Al Arab is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Dubai, and what better way to admire it than from the water? Rent a jet ski and zoom around the coast, getting up close to the iconic sail-shaped hotel while enjoying the thrill of high-speed water sports.
Best for: Water enthusiasts who love fast-paced activities and iconic landmarks.
Image credit: Haris Khan (source: unsplash.com)
For Families
Fair Winds in Dubai!
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