Abu Dhabi’s geography is truly distinct. As an archipelago comprising approximately 200 islands – many open to visitors – the city offers a unique network of rivers, canals, and waterways, all just waiting to be explored. These natural features mean Abu Dhabi is home to some of the finest kayaking spots in the UAE – destinations that every watersports enthusiast should experience. Continue reading to uncover the best places to kayak in Abu Dhabi.
Mangrove Marine National Park
Arguably the most iconic kayaking destination in the entire UAE, Mangrove Marine National Park offers a veritable treasure trove for nature lovers.
Set across more than 19 sq.km, the park itself is a labyrinth of watery expanse, and as such, is only really navigable by kayak. This means there are a multitude of channels and tidal creeks for the inquisitive explorer in you.
The park is protected by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi (EAD) thanks to the hundreds of plant and animal species it houses, and provides one of the most concentrated areas of natural beauty in the city. Mangroves are trees and shrubs which grow in water, creating a habitat for biodiversity. Each year, the park becomes home to a huge colony of Greater Flamingoes, attracted to the area for its breeding and feeding potential. There are also countless other bird species, as well as an abundance of marine life.
If you wish to see this magnificent park by water, kayaks are available for rent from the nearby Eastern Mangroves Abu Dhabi Hotel.
Louvre Museum, Saadiyat Island
The idea of kayaking in the grounds of one of the world’s most respected institutions has a certain, somewhat unusual, allure to it. This iconic museum has been named by France as its “largest cultural project abroad”, but it also doubles as one of Abu Dhabi’s best kayaking sites.
The museum is set on the Arabian Gulf coast and is surrounded by water, making it an ideal, if somewhat surprising location for a spot of kayaking. The museum itself is a stunning piece of architecture, and the kayak tours were initiated as a way for guests to learn more about how the building came into existence, from an ultra-unique perspective.
With professional coaches on hand to guide you through the journey, no prior kayaking experience is necessary, which makes this mini-adventure ideal for the whole family.
Sir Bani Yas Island
While not in the city itself, any list of Abu Dhabi’s best kayaking spots would not be complete without this hidden gem.
The island is only accessible by air or sea, and despite its location, it stands as a must-visit for kayaking enthusiasts. The Sir Bani Yas ferry is the easiest way to get there, located a couple of hours' drive west of Downtown Abu Dhabi.
Once you have arrived, you will be astounded by the natural beauty on offer. The island is home to more than 17,000 free-roaming animals, luxury villas, five-star hotels and historical sites. But for adventurists, it is the thick mangrove forest that arguably stands as the main attraction. Serene and scenic in equal measure, the island offers the perfect environment for kayaking, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace, all while keeping an eye on the wildlife.
Sir Bani Yas is still relatively unspoilt, so if it is a kayaking trip in a secluded destination you are seeking, this is probably the spot for you.
Jubail Mangrove Park
Thanks to Abu Dhabi’s wealth of mangroves, there are plenty of spots to enjoy a morning of kayaking. Chief among them is Jubail Mangrove Park, an exceptional addition to the city’s kayaking scene.
Located on Al Jubail Island – directly adjacent to Saadiyat Island and easily accessible via Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Street (E12) – the mangrove park offers a 1.5-hour guided kayak tour, allowing the whole family to explore this stunning expanse.
Sunset and sunrise present the best options, allowing you to learn all about the mangroves – and the species that call them home – while still cool enough for all to enjoy. The park also offers a 2-hour glow night kayaking experience, which gives visitors a better look at what lurks beneath the surface after dark.
Abu Dhabi Corniche
While not the most picturesque kayaking spot in the city, Abu Dhabi’s popular Corniche Beach ticks many other boxes. The shoreline is one of the most popular for tourists and residents alike, serving as the ideal base for numerous sea-based activities.
Thanks to Al Lulu Island and the peninsula housing Marina Mall Abu Dhabi – which both act as natural barriers – the body of water which Corniche Beach is served by is relatively calm, which provides the ideal conditions for kayaking.
Kayaks can be rented from a number of outlets along the beach, which cater to young children via double boats. Kayaking at Corniche Beach is more of an impromptu affair – a spontaneous activity enjoyed by those who have chosen to visit the beach to relax for the day, yet no less exciting than the other options on today’s list.
Abu Dhabi is one of the most modern cities on earth and offers an endless abundance of things to do and see. While these options – which include world-class restaurants and high-end beach clubs – are great, there are an extensive range of options for those who wish to discover a slightly slower pace of life, surrounded by the natural environment. These kayak options allow residents and visitors alike the chance to reconnect with nature, while also being ideally situated so as not to inconvenience those with a busy schedule.
