Abu Dhabi’s surfing experience just got a luxury upgrade, and the price tag is making waves. A recent $5,450 surfing headline has caught global attention, sparking curiosity among adventurers and skeptics alike.
Following the buzz led us to Hudayriyat Island in Abu Dhabi, where the world’s longest artificial wave pool meets Kelly Slater Wave Company’s groundbreaking technology. From flawless barrels to a luxury price tag, Abu Dhabi’s latest attraction is redefining what it means to chase the perfect wave.
| Feature | Details |
| Pool Length | Reported at 690 m, it is the world’s longest artificial surf pool. Some sources list it as 560 m. |
| Water Volume | Holds 80 million litres of seawater, filtered for safe surfing. |
| Wave Technology | Powered by Kelly Slater Wave Company (KSWC), it offers world-class artificial waves. |
| Developer | Built by Modon Properties, it has shaped Abu Dhabi as a global surf hub. |
| Opening Year & Events | Opened to the public in October 2024, and hosted the 2024 WSL Longboard Tour (Abu Dhabi Longboard Classic – September 27–29, 2024); later became the second stop on the 2025 WSL Championship Tour (Feb 14–16, 2025). |
| Session Types | Includes Open Surf (public access), Surf Trip Plus, Surf Trip, and Discovery/learn-to-surf coaching, all catering to beginners to pros. |
| Pricing | Packages are available at premium rates, with VIP luxury surf sessions up to $5,450. |
The Story Behind Surf Abu Dhabi
Building a world-class surf destination in the middle of the desert might sound improbable, but that’s exactly what Abu Dhabi has done. When the headline of a $5,450 luxury surf session went viral, it wasn’t just the price that grabbed attention, it was the idea that surfing in Abu Dhabi could rival legendary spots like Hawaii or Australia. This bold project proves that the UAE isn’t afraid to create big waves.
At the heart of this vision is Hudayriyat Island, Abu Dhabi’s buzzing sports and leisure destination. The wave pool is the jewel in the crown, making the island a must-visit stop for both tourists and locals looking for world-class adventure. Whether you’re here for a weekend getaway or a once-in-a-lifetime surf trip, this is your chance to have the perfect vacation.
Want to know the secret behind those perfect waves? The answer is a partnership between Modon Properties and the Kelly Slater Wave Company (KSWC). Blending their ambitious development plans and cutting-edge surf technology, Abu Dhabi now boasts the largest saltwater surf park in the world. This collaboration brought surf culture to the desert in style.
Of course, no luxury surf destination would be complete without world-class design. That’s where BDP (Building Design Partnership Ltd), the architecture and design firm behind Surf Abu Dhabi, came in. From the Surf & VIP Club to the waterfront terraces, everything has been crafted to give visitors the feeling of being at an exclusive surf resort. Think blackened steel, natural stone, timber finishes, and chill-out lounges where you can watch waves roll in all day.
The final result? The UAE has now become a major player on the world surf map thanks to Surf Abu Dhabi. The venue hosted the World Surf League Longboard Tour in 2024 and has secured its place as a stop on the 2025 WSL Championship Tour. This is Abu Dhabi’s way of saying, “The desert’s got waves too.”
The Technology Behind the Waves of Surf Abu Dhabi
The answer to Surf Abu Dhabi’s picture-perfect waves lies beneath its surface–it’s smart engineering by Kelly Slater Wave Company (KSWC). Picture a giant underwater wing gliding smoothly along a track, pulled by a powerful pulley system. As it moves, it pushes water in just the right way to form perfect, surfable waves.
The coolest part? The speed and angle can be adjusted, which means every wave can be customized. Whether you want a soft, beginner-friendly roller or a fast, barreling ride, Surf Abu Dhabi has it all. It’s like having an ocean on demand, right in the middle of Hudayriyat Island.
Are you a beginner? Then start with the “Beach Break” or “Cocoa Beach” settings, which are perfect for learning the basics. Intermediates can step it up with the “Point Break” wave, ideal for practicing carves and trims. And for advanced surfers, the legendary “Kelly’s Wave” creates powerful, barreling rides that feel straight out of Hawaii or Indonesia.
While the majority of surf parks around the world opted for freshwater, Abu Dhabi made the bold choice and went for saltwater. Pumping in 80 million litres of slightly desalinated Arabian Gulf seawater, the pool gives riders the same buoyancy and board feel they’d get in the open ocean. This means less adjustment, more comfort, and an instant connection to the waves.
Perhaps what sets this surfing experience apart is its record-breaking ride length. The pool stretches up to 690 meters, allowing surfers to enjoy waves that last nearly a full minute. It’s no wonder Surf Abu Dhabi is now hailed as the world’s longest surfable wave pool.
Surf Abu Dhabi Experiences & Pricing: What You Can Expect
If you’ve been wondering how much it costs to surf at the world’s longest artificial wave pool, here’s the scoop. From total beginners to pro surfers chasing barrels, Surf Abu Dhabi offers a range of sessions for every level. That viral $5,450 price tag isn’t the whole story.
Already know the basics? Then, the Open Surf Beginner session is a great starting point for you. You’ll spend 60 minutes on the mellow Cocoa Beach wave, catching around 6–8 rides for about AED 1,800 (US$490). If you want a bigger challenge, the Intermediate and Advanced Open Surf slots give you 90 minutes of wave time with 20–24 rides, priced at AED 3,500 (US$950).
Never touched a surfboard? No problem! The Learn to Surf group lesson gives you 45 minutes of wave action on the gentle “Beach Break” wave for just AED 600 (US$160). This is a perfect first step into the sport. If you need more personal guidance, upgrade to the 1-on-1 Learn to Surf option, a 90-minute personalized lesson priced at AED 2,000 (US$545).
The Surf Trip is where that luxury surf experience headline comes in. It is a 90-minute private pool takeover for your crew. Up to six surfers can ride the main wave, while four friends enjoy the beginner section. With coaching, video playback, and Surf Club access included, the package costs AED 15,000 (around US$4,080). This is a great bucket list activity to try out with your friends.
Want to go all out? The Surf Trip Plus package turns Surf Abu Dhabi into your personal surf playground for a whole day. This is a popular package for corporate groups, special occasions, and anyone looking for an over-the-top surf retreat. Prices vary for these packages and are available on request.
If you would rather prefer to chill than surf, you can still soak up the vibe with sunbed rentals (AED 200) or private cabanas (AED 1,000). Sounds like a fun chillout, right?
Are you one of those people confused about the viral number floating around the internet? The $5,450 price tag comes from converting the rates to USD. The actual price is AED 15,000, which is closer to US$4,080, not $5,450. The number likely got inflated through exchange rates and rough reporting, but the takeaway is clear: this is a premium surf destination.
You don’t need deep pockets to experience surfing in Abu Dhabi. As a beginner, you can either check out the AED 600 beginner lesson or the AED 1,800 open session. The high-end surf trip packages make headlines, but you can still enjoy the waves without breaking the bank.
Visitor Experience Guide: What to Expect at Surf Abu Dhabi
- Arrival & Check-In at Hudayriyat Island
Your adventure at Surf Abu Dhabi begins as soon as you cross the bridge to Hudayriyat Island. Parking is easy, and check-in is quick and hassle-free. Need help? Even first-time guests feel at ease because of the staff’s constant availability to assist with registration, surfboard rentals, and locker access.
- World-Class Facilities
The Surf Club is a central hub, complete with lounges, shaded terraces, and even co-working areas for those mixing business with play. Just steps away from the place is the Nalu Beach Club. This beach club is a chic beach escape, featuring cabanas, a pool, and wellness facilities.
Not sure where to get surfing gear? These locations have retail and rental stores stocked with boards, wetsuits, and gear for all levels. Dining options range from quick smoothies and healthy bites to relaxed waterfront meals, so you can spend your entire day on-site.
- A Day in the Wave Pool
Every surf session begins with a safety briefing and orientation, so don’t worry if you don’t know how to handle the waves. As a beginner, you can join instructor-led lessons that start with smaller, easy-to-ride waves, while intermediate and advanced surfers can book performance sessions with longer rides, barrels, and challenging conditions.
These sessions are designed to maximize wave time and keep the stoke high. Want to relax after your surf session? Guests often head to the recovery lounge, enjoy a post-surf smoothie, or review their rides with coaches before relaxing in the sun.
- Options for Non-Surfers & Families
Are you a non-surfer who enjoys watching the sport? Then go ahead to the spectator decks. These decks offer shaded seating with prime views of the wave pool, making it easy to cheer on friends or simply watch the action.
You can also spend the day at Nalu Beach Club, complete with poolside service and a laid-back atmosphere. Dining spots and cafés around Hudayriyat Island add even more variety, ensuring everyone in the family has a great day out. Whether you’re surfing or not, there’s always something to enjoy.
How to Reach Surf Abu Dhabi & Where to Stay
Planning a surf trip to Abu Dhabi? Getting to Surf Abu Dhabi is simple, with plenty of nearby hotels and the perfect time of year to make the most of your visit. Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
- Getting to Hudayriyat Island from Abu Dhabi city & AUH airport
Surf Abu Dhabi is located on Hudayriyat Island, just a short drive from downtown Abu Dhabi. From the city center, the trip takes about 15–20 minutes by car, while the journey from Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) takes around 30 minutes.
Careem and Uber are widely available ride-hailing services, and for those renting a car, the drive is straightforward with clear signs leading to the island.
- Where to Stay
When it comes to accommodation, visitors have a wide variety of options available. Hudayriyat Island itself is developing with new resorts, boutique hotels, and waterfront stays.
Need something luxurious? Yas Island is just 25 minutes away and offers world-class resorts alongside theme parks like Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld.
If you’re looking for something at a central base, you can stay along Corniche, where beachfront hotels combine city access with stunning Arabian Gulf views.
- Best Time to Visit
While Surf Abu Dhabi’s wave pool delivers perfect surf year-round, the best time to visit Abu Dhabi is between October and April. The weather is pleasantly warm and ideal for outdoor activities.
If you decide to visit around this time, you can be part of major events, festivals, and sporting competitions in the city, making it a vibrant time to plan your trip.
Don’t mind the heat? The summer months of May to September can be extremely hot, but the pool’s climate-controlled setup ensures you can still enjoy world-class waves.
Events & Competitions at Surf Abu Dhabi
If you thought Surf Abu Dhabi was just about casual sessions, think again.
This wave pool served as the WSL Abu Dhabi Pro stop from February 14 to 16, 2025. It marked a historic milestone, being the very first Championship Tour event ever held in the Middle East, right in the heart of the desert. Surfers like Caitlin Simmers and Ítalo Ferreira claimed victory on those perfect, engineered waves.
In addition to that high-profile pro event, Surf Abu Dhabi continues to nurture the local surf ecosystem through grassroots competitions that welcome UAE-based surfers, juniors, and surfing enthusiasts.
These events aren’t just about winning trophies, they’re about inspiring the next generation of Middle East surf talent.
Surf Abu Dhabi is setting the stage for lasting cultural impact through inclusive surf community programs. Think surf academies, training camps, and outreach sessions where beginners, families, and surfers from all walks of life are welcomed with open arms.
Together these events and communities reshape the future of professional surfing in the Middle East. They have proven that deserts can and do have waves worth watching.
Sustainability & Controversies
Did you know that Surf Abu Dhabi runs on 80 million litres of desalinated Gulf seawater? This is what sets the pool apart from other pools across the globe that use freshwater. Yet, with this distinction comes its own controversies.
The process is quite energy-heavy. It raises concerns about carbon emissions, marine salinity, and ecological impact in the Arabian Gulf.
On one side, supporters claim that the pool recycles its water, while on the other hand, critics point out that the desalination process is far from eco-friendly.
Hosting the World Surf League was historic for the Middle East, but it came with accusations of sportswashing. Many claimed that these big events were distractions from major issues.
So far, Surf Abu Dhabi has been accepted positively. It is seen as a bold addition to Abu Dhabi’s sports tourism scene.
How Does Surf Abu Dhabi Compare Globally
When it comes to cutting-edge wave technology, Surf Abu Dhabi and Kelly Slater’s Surf Ranch in California share the same DNA. Both of them have Kelly Slater Wave Company’s hydrofoil-driven system for faultless, high-performance waves. But Abu Dhabi’s take is bigger, bolder, and built for spectacle.
Surf Abu Dhabi’s wave pool stretches nearly 690 meters, making it longer than the Ranch’s, and the ride can last close to a minute.
Over in Europe and Australia, Wavegarden has taken a different approach. Their modular Wavegarden Cove technology that is found in parks like The Wave (UK), Urbnsurf (Australia), uses electro-mechanical paddles instead of hydrofoils. This lets them generate up to 1,000 waves per hour, with adjustable wave shapes and sizes.
Surf Abu Dhabi’s 80 million liters of desalinated Gulf water, record-breaking length, and luxury facilities set it apart from the rest of the globally known surfing hubs.
When it comes to pricing, Surf Abu Dhabi is at the top of the list. A 90-minute private session with 20–24 waves comes in at around US $170 per wave, which fares better than the Surf Ranch’s high-season per-wave cost of $500+. Wavegarden parks in Europe and Australia typically charge between €50 and €90 per session, making them budget-friendlier alternatives.
Safety & Beginner Tips
- Wave Priority: Only one surfer is allowed at a time, so wait for your turn to avoid collisions.
- Always Wear a Leash: Keeps your board close and prevents it from hitting others in the pool.
- Listen to Instructors: Certified surf coaches give you step by step guidance, from stance to balance.
- Choose the Right Package: “Learn to Surf” sessions are beginner-friendly, with gentler waves and extra coaching.
- Warm-Up Before Surfing: Reduce the risk of injuries by doing light stretches and balance drills before you enter the wave.
- Respect the Flow: Exit the wave lane quickly after your ride so the next surfer has space.
- Lifeguards & Rescue Ready: Trained staff with jet skis are always on standby for emergencies.
- Protect Yourself: Rash guards or wetsuits prevent board rash and add buoyancy in the saltwater.
- Stay Hydrated & Rested: The desert climate means you’ll tire faster, so take breaks and drink water.
Longer, smoother, and more luxurious– Surf Abu Dhabi delivers waves you won’t find anywhere else. It is a true bucket list ride. Want to make the best out of your trip? Then surf Abu Dhabi in style with Thrillark.
FAQs About Surf Abu Dhabi
1. How long is the Surf Abu Dhabi wave?
You can ride a wave for almost one minute, peeling across approximately 100 meters in the 690-meter-long surf lagoon.
2. How much does a session cost?
Pricing varies by session type:
- Open Surf Beginner (Cocoa Beach): AED 1,800 (~US$490) for ~6–8 waves
- Open Surf Intermediate/Advanced: AED 3,500 (~US$950) for ~20–24 waves
- Private 90-minute Surf Trip: AED 15,000 (~US$4,080) for up to 24 waves
3. Is it beginner-friendly?
Absolutely! Surf Abu Dhabi offers Discovery/Beginner Sessions, including guided lessons on the gentle Beach Break and Cocoa Beach waves, perfect for first-timers.
4. Can you book private surf trips?
Yes! You can hire the entire pool for a 90-minute Surf Trip, accommodating up to 6 surfers on the main wave plus 4 on the beginner wave, with full coaching and club access.
5. Does it really use seawater?
Yes, it’s the world’s first saltwater-based wave pool, using Arabian Gulf desalinated seawater for an authentic surf feel.
6. What’s included in the VIP package?
VIP packages like Surf Trip Plus offer tailored, exclusive surf experiences, additional surf basin hours, full access to the Surf Club, customized wave time, and hospitality extras.
