Dubai, with its luxurious beaches, is a perfect location for water sports. Kitesurfing and windsurfing are getting more and more popular, and the resident population of riders is continually growing. In winter, Dubai is lucky to have pleasant temperatures, warm sea, and occasional strong winds at about 20 knots. The best time of the day to surf with a kite or a sail is between 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. In summer, the wind is rather light in Dubai. For that reason, the island of Al Masirah off the coast of Oman, which is about 10 hours away from Dubai and receives a share of the strong Indian monsoon winds, becomes the only destination suitable for windsurfers or kitesurfers.
Kitesurfing spots in Dubai
Due to the lack of strong winds, it's better to have a big kite (11-17 m/36-56 ft) when kitesurfing in Dubai in winter. Water sports are prohibited on some of the beaches. However, there are two designated beaches for kitesurfers. Dubai Kite Beach or Fazza beach is located just a few kilometers from the famous Burj Al Arab, the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, and Wollongong University. Kitesurfing is allowed everywhere at this beach. It is also suitable for windsurfing. Dubai Kite N Surf Beach or Nessnass beach is located close to Sunset Mall. It offers a quiet bay, kitesurfing lessons and is suitable for beginners. Kite rental in Dubai is possible only if you buy a license.
Windsurfing in Dubai
Windsurfers in Dubai take advantage of northwesterly winds in the late afternoon, blowing the strongest at around 4-5 p.m. In addition to Kite Beach and Kite N Surf Beach, popular spots include Jebel Ali Beach near Jebel Ali Hotel, Sheraton Hotel Beach, Meridien Hotel Beach, Black Palace Beach near Jumeriah Beach, and Sunset Beach. Waters off Palm Jumeirah are suitable for beginners as it's safe and sheltered here—an ideal place for children.
Across Dubai, you can find plenty of water sports schools and various operators that offer windsurfing packages from the beginner to advanced level. Windsurfing lessons be an experienced professional can be purchased individually or in groups of five or ten. You can rent various boards on an hourly basis.
Practical info
When is the best time to visit Dubai for kitesurfing or windsurfing?
December to April is the best time to visit Dubai for kitesurfing or windsurfing. In these months, water sports enthusiasts can enjoy pleasant weather, a warm sea, and occasional strong winds averaging at 20 knots. Show more
Where are the best beaches to practice kitesurfing and windsurfing in Dubai?
Dubai Kite Beach, also called Fazza Beach, and Dubai Kite N Surf Beach, also known as Nessnass Beach, are top locations for kitesurfing or windsurfing in Dubai. Additionally, Sheraton Hotel Beach, Jebel Ali Beach, Black Palace Beach, Sunset Beach, and Meridien Hotel Beach are popular for these activities. Beginners can go to Waters off Palm Jumeirah to practice windsurfing. Show more
How strong are the winds in Dubai suitable for kitesurfing and windsurfing?
Ideal winds for kitesurfing and windsurfing in Dubai are occasionally strong during winter, with an average of 20 knots. Whereas, late afternoon, especially around 4-5 p.m., is best suited for windsurfing. Wind conditions in summer are generally light in Dubai, with Al Masirah, about 10 hours away from Dubai, being the only suitable destination for wind or kitesurfing enthusiasts. Show more
Are there any restrictions for practicing kitesurfing or windsurfing in Dubai?
Not all Dubai beaches allow water sports, including kitesurfing or windsurfing. Dubai Kite Beach and Dubai Kite N Surf Beach allow these water sports and usually have designated areas for them. In Dubai, you will require a license to rent a kite, and there are regulations you must observe when practising kitesurfing or windsurfing. Show more
Are there any windsurfing packages for beginners in Dubai?
Beginners to advanced levels can find numerous water sports schools and operators all over Dubai offering windsurfing packages. These packages come in both individual and group options, and some of them include 1 to 1 windsurfing sessions or classes in groups that can be purchased either individually or in packages of five or ten. Dubai also has hourly board rental opportunities for its visitors. Show more
