

Abu Dhabi Opens a New Family-Friendly Night Beach at the Corniche
Abu Dhabi’s Corniche just got a glowing new addition: a free night beach where families, fitness lovers, and late-night strollers can all come together to enjoy the city’s shoreline after sunset. Imagine dipping your toes in the cool sand, watching the skyline sparkle, and knowing it’s safe and welcoming for everyone. That’s exactly what the capital’s newest beach experience promises. Open every evening until midnight, the night beach is designed with both fun and safety in mind. Lifeguards are on duty, allowing families to relax while kids splash in the water, and sports facilities add an extra layer of energy for those who want more than just a swim. What makes it even more special is its inclusive design, featuring accommodations to support visually impaired visitors, ensuring the beach truly belongs to the entire community. With this initiative, Abu Dhabi is proving that the Corniche isn’t just a daytime hotspot; it’s now a vibrant, family-friendly escape where the city comes alive long after the sun goes down. This guide will help you learn more about the new free night beach before you pack your bag to Abu Dhabi. Snapshot at a Glance Feature Details Location Braille signage, tactile paths, and floating wheelchairs (available at Gate 3) Size 1,000 sqm swimming area Hours 6 AM-10 PM (Mon-Thu) Until midnight (Fri-Sun) Entry Fee Free Facilities Lifeguards, first aid, sports courts, bright lighting, family-friendly zones Accessibility Braille signage, tactile paths, and floating wheelchairs (available at Gate 3) Why Now? Abu Dhabi’s Urban Strategy The launch of the Corniche night beach isn’t just a random addition; it’s part of a bigger vision for the city. Abu Dhabi has been steadily investing in public leisure spaces that make urban life more vibrant, safe, and family-oriented. By opening beaches that come alive after sunset, the capital is adapting to the way residents and visitors actually want to spend their time. Long summer days in the UAE can be intense, and cooler evenings naturally invite people outdoors. A night beach creates the perfect setting for families to relax, play, and connect without worrying about the midday heat. From evening swims to late-night walks, it reflects a shift in lifestyle towards after-dark recreation. This move also ties into a broader national trend. Night beaches have already become popular at Marsana on Hudayriyat Island and other coastal spots across the UAE, proving that there’s a real demand for extended hours. With its Corniche project, Abu Dhabi is taking the lead in positioning itself as not only a cultural and business hub, but also as a global family tourism destination. Facilities & Features of the Night Beach The Corniche night beach is designed with families in mind, with safety being the top priority. Lifeguards are stationed across all swimming zones, giving parents peace of mind while kids enjoy the water. On-site first aid services add an extra layer of reassurance, ensuring that help is always close at hand. The beach is also illuminated with strong, eco-conscious lighting, balancing security with sustainability so visitors feel safe even late into the night. Beyond swimming, the night beach is packed with options for recreation and play. Sports lovers can make use of volleyball, basketball, and football courts, perfect for evening matches under the stars. Families will find designated spaces where children can play freely and groups can gather for picnics or celebrations, turning the beach into a true community hub. The experience is not just about activity, it’s also about atmosphere. Visitors can take in stunning views of Abu Dhabi’s skyline glowing against the night sky, creating a picture-perfect backdrop. With easy access to the Corniche promenade, the beach seamlessly blends into the city’s iconic waterfront, making it ideal for a casual evening stroll or a romantic walk by the sea. Inclusivity: Accessible Beach at Gate 3 One of the most standout features of Abu Dhabi’s Corniche night beach is its commitment to accessibility. At Gate 3, a specially designed zone has been created for visitors with visual impairments and mobility challenges, making sure the joy of the beach is truly for everyone. This inclusive area is equipped with Braille signage, tactile ground surfaces, and guiding ropes that provide safe navigation from the promenade to the water. Visitors can also make use of floating wheelchairs, enabling a comfortable and secure swimming experience. To ensure complete safety, the zone has a dedicated lifeguard along with staff trained to support people of determination. Entry is not only free but also extended to one companion, reinforcing the city’s commitment to inclusivity. By integrating these thoughtful features, Abu Dhabi is aligning with its broader vision of becoming a leader in inclusive tourism and universal design, setting an example for other global destinations to follow. Visitor Experience Guide Category Details Getting There Easily accessible from downtown Abu Dhabi via Corniche Road. Public transport, taxis, and ride-hailing apps are available. Parking near Gates 4-6. Best Times to Visit Open all day, but best enjoyed after sunset. Summer evenings: cooler, breezy swims. Weekends: lively family vibe until midnight. Weekdays: quieter atmosphere. What to Bring Swimwear, towels, hydration, and beach games. Follow modesty dress codes for public beaches. Picnic snacks and mats are recommended for family zones. Nearby Attractions Cafes & eateries on the Corniche promenade. Cycling tracks & children’s playgrounds. Saadiyat Cultural District (short drive). Corniche as a Landmark Stretching over 8 kilometers along Abu Dhabi’s coastline, the Corniche is one of the city’s most beloved landmarks. Known for its pristine, Blue Flag-certified beaches, landscaped walkways, and family-friendly spaces, it has long been the capital’s go-to destination for relaxation and outdoor activities. For both residents and tourists, the Corniche represents the perfect balance of urban living and natural beauty. The addition of the night beach brings a fresh vibrancy to this iconic stretch. By extending beach life beyond daylight hours, Abu Dhabi has reimagined how the Corniche can be experienced through late-night swims, starlit sports matches, or simple evening strolls with the skyline as a backdrop. In many ways,