Al Raha Beach is a waterfront community near Abu Dhabi airport — marinas, canals, beaches and family-friendly dining, and a handy base for Yas Island. Modern and low-key, Al Raha Beach pairs an easy holiday setting with quick access to the capital’s biggest attractions.
Its calm waters and marina promenades make it a relaxed stay just minutes from Yas. Here is how to make the most of it, as part of our main Abu Dhabi guide.
Getting your bearings at Al Raha Beach
The community strings along the coast in a series of canal-side precincts and marinas, anchored by Al Raha Mall, right beside the airport and a short drive from Yas Island.
Where to eat at Al Raha Beach
Al Raha Mall and the waterfront bring a solid, family-friendly dining line-up; see the best restaurants in Abu Dhabi.
Things to do at Al Raha Beach
Beaches, marinas and promenades fill an easy day, with the theme parks of Yas Island next door for when you want more.
Where to stay
Waterfront hotels and resorts make Al Raha Beach a convenient, relaxed base near the airport and Yas; see luxury staycations.
Getting to Al Raha Beach
Right by Abu Dhabi airport and Yas Island, it is best reached by taxi or car; about 75 minutes from Dubai.
Best time to visit
The cooler months from October to April are ideal for the beaches and marina promenades.
Where to stay, eat and explore around Al Raha Beach
Al Raha Beach is a calm waterfront community strung along the mainland shore between the city and Yas Island — think marina promenades at Al Bandar, low-key beachfront dining and the landmark Al Raha Beach Hotel. Its relaxed resorts and nearby hotels feature in our roundup of luxury staycations in Abu Dhabi, and the setting makes Al Raha Beach a quieter alternative to staying on Yas itself.
That proximity is the draw: Al Raha Beach sits minutes from the Yas Island theme parks, so it pairs easily with our guides to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi and Yas Waterworld. Back home, waterfront cafés and weekend markets keep things gentle — this is a corner of the capital for slow days by the water more than big nights out.
Explore more of Abu Dhabi
Next door: Yas Island. Or head back to the main Abu Dhabi guide.