Welcome to Dubai Marina, one of the city’s most iconic waterfront destinations and a favorite spot for both visitors and residents. Here, picture glittering skyscrapers, the most luxurious yachts, and a vibrant promenade lined with restaurants and quick stops.
In a nutshell, Dubai Marina is a neighborhood that combines modern living with seaside leisure. It’s often called the Venice of Dubai due to the beautiful man-made marina that has captivated residents and visitors alike.
If you’re visiting, then be sure to tune in to our guide. Here, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about Dubai Marina, from what it is to what it offers.
Overview and History of Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is one of the largest man-made marinas in the world, a landmark of modern Dubai. But before this, it was an unbelievable project envisioned by Emaar Properties. Their vision was to create a center within Dubai that mixes work, play, and comfortable living.
The vision was thrust into reality in 2003. It was completed and opened to the public in 2008, all while continuing to develop the area and its beautiful landscape. This hoped to create an iconic landmark that signified what Dubai was capable of.
Today, that’s exactly what happened. With over 50 million square feet and over 200 high-rise buildings, Dubai Marina has become home and a must-visit for millions of people. In the middle of it is a 3.5 km canal, along the Persian Gulf shoreline.
Location and Accessibility
One of the reasons Dubai Marina is so popular is its unbeatable location. It’s strategically located near Jumeirah Beach Residence and Sheikh Zayed Road. This makes it well-connected to other key areas and Dubai as a whole.
So, while Dubai Marina has access to several amenities and features, its prime positioning is also an advantage. People within the vicinity can easily get access to outside beaches, business hubs, and entertainment districts.
For reference, here’s a general view on how fast you can get to other areas within the city:
Destination | Travel Time by Car |
|---|---|
Dubai International Airport | 25 minutes |
Downtown Dubai | 20 minutes |
Mall of the Emirates | 10 to 15 minutes |
Palm Jumeirah | 15 minutes |
Jumeirah Beach Residence | 5 minutes |
Dubai Mall | 20 minutes |
How to Get to Dubai Marina?
Getting to Dubai Marina is quick and easy. Since it’s located in a convenient spot, you’ll have plenty of options.
By Car
If you’re driving, you can head down to Sheikh Zayed Road to reach Dubai Marina. Once you reach the exit for Dubai Marina, you’ve reached your destination.
By Metro
Take the Red Line that runs directly through the Marina area. Take the Sobha Realty Station if you want to head to the promenade. If you need to go to the Dubai Marina Mall and JBR, use the DMCC station.
By Tram
The Dubai Tram circles and loops around the Marina, connecting to several key areas around the waterfront neighborhood.
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Apps
Taxis are plentiful in Dubai and will take you directly to your hotel or destination within the Marina. You can also use services such as Uber and Careem for your destination.
Water Taxis and Ferry
You can also ride water taxis and the Dubai Ferry to reach the Dubai Marina. While trips can take about an hour, it’s a scenic option if you have the time.
What’s It Like in Dubai Marina?
Being a hotspot for Dubai Marina, this waterfront neighborhood is lively and luxurious. It’s home to several professionals, families, and business owners who enjoy being at the heart of Dubai.
The Marina also features more than 200 residential towers, including iconic developments like the Cayan Tower. Many of these buildings come with gyms, pools, and direct access to the promenade. These are also close to supermarkets, boutique shops, and retail outlets.
The community is highly social and diverse. Since it’s close to key areas around the city, it’s often flocked by several visitors. Because of its popularity, it’s often packed on weekends and holidays. Tourists immediately flock to the attractions and dining spots unique to the area.
Dubai Marina Walk and Promenade
Before we get to the usual amenities of several beautiful districts within the city, let’s explore the walk first. One of the highlights of Dubai Marina is its stunning waterfront walkway. This 7-kilometer stretch is one of the most popular spots within the district.
The Dubai Marina Walk, also known as the Dubai Marina Promenade, helps connect the entire compound. With its palm-lined paths, it hosts waterfront cafes, boutique shops, retail outlets, and an endless number of sights.
The promenade is open 24/7, completely free to access, and designed for everyone. It’s the perfect spot for jogging and cycling in the morning. Even so, the promenade also allows friends and families to enjoy the open spaces, fountains, shaded seating, and the beautiful canal.
Aside from connecting people with land-based activities and events, it also helps bring people to sea. From here, you can hop on a yacht cruise, try water sports like paddleboarding or jet skiing, or simply stroll with an ice cream in hand.
Dubai Marina Mall
Now that we’ve explored the Dubai Marina Walk, it’s time to go further into the center. Here, you can find the Dubai Marina Mall. Like plenty of malls across Dubai, it’s a luxurious and stylish shopping center.
Dubai Marina Mall is also massive, boasting over 390,000 square feet with over four levels. Even so, it’s easy to navigate, relaxed, and offers everything you need without the overwhelming crowds of the city’s mega-malls.
Inside, you’ll discover more than 140 stores that range from international brands to local favorites. There’s also a supermarket, pharmacy, and convenience stores for everyday essentials. But there’s more.
The mall is home to a multi-screen cinema, a kids’ play area, and a wide selection of cafes and restaurants. These often have outdoor seating that portrays the beauty of the Dubai Marina and all its glamor.
Another standout of the Dubai Marina Mall is its connection to Pier 7, a tower with seven floors. These floors are home to themed restaurants that also offer spectacular views of the Marina promenade and skylines.
Plus, the mall is directly linked to the luxurious JW Marriott Hotel Marina. It’s the perfect spot for visitors.
Amenities and Things to Do at the Dubai Marina
Aside from the Dubai Marina Mall and Walk, there are plenty of other amenities to enjoy here at the compound. This guide is an understatement to the number of things you can enjoy at Dubai Marina, but we’ll be sure to keep it close.
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Dining and Restaurants
Food is at the heart of the Dubai Marina experience, and the dining scene here is as diverse as the city itself. One of the most famous dining spots is Pier 7, an iconic tower dedicated entirely to restaurants.
Beyond Pier 7, Dubai Marina restaurants are lining up. The area is filled with dozens of casual and family-friendly restaurants. You’ll find everything from Carluccio’s to Five Guys, plus plenty of international chains and local gems. Many offer outdoor seating to enjoy the breeze and view.
Inside Dubai Marina Mall, you can easily come across quick bites and sips. Starbucks and Costa Coffee are popular stops, with sit-down restaurants such as Lamoroso and Zafran Indian Bistro. Other popular spots include:
Asia Asia. Asia Asia is a glamorous Asian fusion restaurant inspired by the Silk Road, offering a mix of sushi, dim sum, and bold flavors. It also features a terrace that provides the best views of the Dubai Marina and its skyline.
Abd El Wahab. This Lebanese favorite is known for its authentic mezze, grilled meats, and fresh seafood. The indoor seating is cozy and comforting, with an outdoor terrace to complement the experience.
Atelier M. This restaurant in Pier 7 blends Mediterranean cuisine with a stylish rooftop lounge that comes alive in the late evenings, weekend brunches, and romantic dinners.
For some nightlight options, Dubai Marina comes prepared. The moment the sun goes down, the waterfront neighborhood transforms into a vibrant party district. Pier 7 is a notable example, the centerpiece of Marina nightlife. Many of the restaurants here are perfect spots for a night in the city.
Aside from the masterpiece that is Pier 7, here are some top spots to visit:
Zero Gravity Dubai. Zero Gravity Dubai is located right by Skydive Dubai. It’s one of the most popular beach clubs and nightlife spots in the area. By day, it’s a chill beach spot. But by night, it transforms into a space for high-energy events and music.
Wane by SoMiya. Wane by SoMiya combines a laid-back loung-style vibe with good music and drinks. Guests can enjoy a light nightlife by the pool while enjoying cocktails with beautiful views.
Boom Battle Bar Dubai. Adding a playful twist to the Dubai nightlife, Boom Battle Bar brings together a unique experience. With a dark, neon-style design, the place provides good games, awesome food, and explosive drinks to the mix.
Bla Bla Dubai. Bla Bla is a massive beachfront venue with over 20 bars, restaurants, and lounges under one roof. It’s famous for being an expansive nightlife experience with a chill daytime vibe.
Shopping and Retail
Shopping in Dubai Marina combines convenience with style. While it lacks the mega-malls like Dubai Mall or the Mall of the Emirates, it offers a more relaxed and community-focused experience. The centerpiece is the Dubai Marina Mall, a masterpiece we talked about earlier.
Alongside the mall itself, there are also other shopping and retail outlets along the Dubai Marina Walk. This makes it easy to head right on the walkway and browse the shops available along the way.
Here are some of the popular destinations along the Dubai Marina:
Fashion and Lifestyle
H&M. Affordable fashion options for men, women, and children.
Tommy Hilfiger. American-style fashion and classic accessories.
Guess. Seasonal offerings, trendy apparel, handbags, and denim.
Levi’s. Iconic denim wear and casual clothing.
Sephora. Global beauty retailer with cosmetics, skincare, and fragrances.
MAC Cosmetics. Professional makeup and beauty products.
Pandora. Offers stunning and customizable jewelry and accessories.
There are also several boutique shops along the Dubai Marina promenade. This includes Blush Petals Flower Shop, Li Li Fashion Trading LLC, My Tailor & Little Things, and many more shops to choose from.
Everyday Essentials
Waitrose. Features a quality and upscale supermarket experience with fresh groceries and imported items. Located within Dubai Marina Mall.
Al Maya Supermarket. A popular and trusted supermarket in Dubai Marina with over 50 locations in Dubai. Offers everyday essentials and goods.
F Mart Swift Supermarket. A modern supermarket chain in Dubai that offers fresh and high-quality products. They also provide deli items, gourmet food, beverages, and quick bites.
Beach City Supermarket. A 24/7 supermarket that offers everyday essentials, goods, and groceries.
Water Activities
Being a waterfront district, Dubai Marina is all about life on and above the water. Visitors and residents can enjoy various activities, from luxury yacht cruises to adventurous jet skiing. The area is a prime spot for activities that beat the heat.
Plus, these activities won’t break your bank. They’re perfect for some short spikes of adrenaline and relaxation. Here are some of the activities we recommend:
Yacht Cruises. One of the most popular activities in the Dubai Marin is yacht cruises. The area is filled with plenty of different options, often rented by private parties, corporate events, and families. Many come with full catering, entertainment, and even onboard jacuzzis.
Dhow Dinner Cruises. Dhow Dinner Cruises are perfect for romantic dinners and celebrating memorable events. It’s an evening cruise filled with live entertainment and a buffet dinner. Dinner by the sea never felt so good.
Jet Skiing. For the adventurers and thrill seekers, jet skiing is probably one of their favorites. It’s a popular activity that allows people to experience the beauty of the city and the Arabian Gulf.
Flyboarding. If you want to fly around the pristine waters of the Dubai Marina and the Arabian Gulf, flyboarding is perfect for you. It uses a water-powered flyboard to literally hover above the sea.
Parasailing. For panoramic aerial views, parasailing gives you a new perspective of Dubai Marina, JBR, and Palm Jumeirah. It’s both safe and exhilarating, perfect for couples and groups of friends.
Paddleboarding and Kayaking. The calm waters of the Marina make it ideal for some relaxing paddleboarding and kayaking. These quieter activities are perfect if you want to enjoy the scenery and calm within.
Fishing Charters. Now, for the fishing lovers, there’s also something for you. Private fishing trips can be scheduled. Charters often include gear, refreshments, and a guide to help maximize your catch.
Extreme Adventures
If you thought Dubai Marina was only about laid-back strolls and luxury yachts, then you’ve got it all wrong.
XLine Dubai Marina. This is the world’s longest urban zipline, starting from a 170-meter-high tower at Dubai Marina Mall. The zipline itself is over 1 km long. Riders fly across the Marina at insane speeds, sometimes reaching over 80 km/h.
Skydive Dubai. Located right next to the Marina, Skydive Dubai offers tandem skydives over Palm Jumeirah. The freefall is accompanied by a professional who makes sure you’re safe and having tons of fun. Here, you can get breathtaking views of the city.
Spas and Wellness Centers
After you’ve done all the eating, shopping, and adventuring, it’s time to relax and recharge. With its mix of luxury spas, gyms, rooftop pools, and wellness centers, Dubai Marina provides that balance that makes self-care a little bit more exciting.
For the spas, Dubai Marina offers numerous spots for rejuvenation. They combine world-class hospitality with serene services so you feel relaxed the moment you step in. Here are some of the highlights we found:
Stella Spa & Massage. Stella Spa & Massage is a welcoming spot in the Marina that’s known for its attentive service and variety of treatments. They have Deep Tissue, Thai, and Swedish Massage, as well as a sauna, Jacuzzi, and steam room.
B/Attitude Spa. B/Attitude Spa offers a variety of relaxing services in their Eastern-inspired interior. They have several types of massages, treatments, enhancements, and experiences that all provide a unique service.
Dreamworks Spa. Dreamworks Spa is one of Dubai’s most trusted spa chains, and its location in the Dubai Marina continues to impress. They have specialized services such as the DREAM – Foot Retreat and DREAM – Pregnancy.
Midori Spa & Wellness. This spa in Dubai Marina offers a wide variety of services for relaxation. They have several Midori Treatments, foot and hand therapies, body treatments, waxing, and spa packages.
Gyms and Fitness Centers
Once you’ve gotten the hang of your life in Dubai Marina, it’s time to step up your physical health. Luckily, this waterfront neighborhood offers plenty of choices for your fitness needs. Take your pick from high-end gyms with the best views or straightforward fitness studios.
Wellfit Marina. Wellfit Marina is one of Dubai’s most advanced fitness clubs and is popular for several reasons. It has over 35,000 sq. ft. of space with over a hundred fitness equipment. It’s the perfect place for some cardio and strength conditioning.
KO8 Fitness DXB. KO8 Fitness is known for its unique training system, designed to build strength, stability, and endurance. They have a neon-inspired interior with an outdoor terrace that gives you full views of the Dubai Marina.
Fitness First Marina Gate. Another specialized fitness center in the Marina that features state-of-the-art equipment to elevate your fitness goals. Members can enjoy several facilities that help them warm up, exercise, and cool down.
Prime Fitness Dubai Marina. Prime Fitness is a fitness chain that also follows that neon-inspired look. The dark interior gives an intense workout feel that makes you want to give your all.
Hotels
If you’re a visitor, you’d want to stay right in the middle of the action. Located in key areas around the promenade are several hotels. Some are also extending to Jumeirah Beach Residence, which is often considered a key part of the Dubai Marina.
So, if you’re looking to extend your stay to explore more of the clubs, adventures, and amenities, check out these hotels:
JW Marriott Hotel Marina. This hotel is often the best choice for visitors who frequent the Dubai Marina Mall. It offers stylish rooms, a resort-style pool, and multiple dining areas. It’s perfect for those who want to stay close to the Marina’s main offerings.
Address Dubai Marina. This iconic hotel is instantly recognizable thanks to its two-tower design connected by the world’s tallest infinity pool. The hotel also features several options for pools, dining options, wellness centers, and many more.
Grosvenor House. Grosvenor House, a Luxury Collection Hotel in Dubai, is known for its stunning accommodations, luxury views, and outstanding service. It has two 45-storey towers, private beach access, and access to multiple dining options.
Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina. The Crowne Plaza Marina combines business-friendly facilities with stylish leisure amenities. It’s a great choice for guests on business looking for some fun to break the ice.
Family-Friendly Areas
While Dubai Marina has several options for nightlife, shopping, and extreme activities, it’s also a hub for family time. Here, the areas are safe and kid-friendly, with plenty of activities for the little ones.
AquaFun Water Park is the highlight of the entire Dubai Marina and JBR Beach experience. It’s the world’s largest inflatable water park, spanning over 42,400 sq. meters. Also, the water park has over 110 games and attractions that are sure to keep kids occupied and families satisfied.
Aside from the water park, the Dubai Marina itself has areas where kids can play and have fun. Jump N Fun is a prime example. Located within the Dubai Marina Mall, it’s a place where kids can run, jump, and climb safely without limits.
If you prefer to catch a movie with the family, Dubai Marina also has Reel Cinemas at the Dubai Marina Mall. The cinema offers comfortable seating and a wide snack selection that keeps the movie experience exciting.
Along the Dubai Marina Walk, there are small playgrounds and open areas that are safe for kids.
Properties in Dubai Marina
If you’re thinking about starting fresh in this upscale, waterfront neighborhood, we’ll give you a brief rundown. The costs might be high, but the standards are at the same level. The popular options include:
Marina Towers
Princess Tower
Vida Residences
Elite Residence
Damac Heights
Here’s an overview of the properties in Dubai Marina:
Apartments
Layout | Size (sq. ft.) | Rental Price Per Year (AED) | Sale Price (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|
Studio | 300 - 600 | 54,000 - 196,000 | 440,000 - 4,100,000 |
1-Bedroom | 750 - 1300 | 60,000 - 265,000 | 500,000 - 4,646,000 |
2-Bedroom | 1,350 - 2,000 | 99,000 - 380,000 | 1,190,000 - 11,700,000 |
3-Bedroom | 1,600 - 3,500 | 120,000 - 850,000 | 1,600,000 - 20,000,000 |
4-Bedroom | 2,000 - 4,000 | 200,000 - 900,000 | 3,100,000 - 72,840,000 |
5-Bedroom | 2,700 - 14,000 | 300,000 - 900,000 | 7,500,000 - 119,988,000 |
Penthouses
Layout | Size (sq. ft.) | Rental Price Per Year (AED) | Sale Price (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|
3-Bedroom | 2,500 - 7,000 | 195,000 - 1,300,000 | 3,850,000 - 20,000,000 |
4-Bedroom | 5,477 - 10,000 | 330,000 - 1,825,000 | 5,700,000 - 87,000,000 |
5-Bedroom | 7,659 - 14,000 | 400,000 - 1,080,000 | 7,500,000 - 125,987,400 |
Villas / Townhouses
While Dubai Marina is more known for its high-rise residential areas, there are also some villas and townhouses available. These options range from 3 to 5-bedroom layouts, ranging from AED 5,950,000 to AED 40,000,000.
Pros and Cons of the Dubai Marina Experience
Before you visit the Dubai Marina, there are a few things to keep in mind. While the pros are obvious, it’s good to know the cons of this extravagant neighborhood.
Pros
Bright and Stunning Views
Dubai Marina features the best views, including its towering skyscrapers, man-made canals, and paved walkways. The addition of yachts along the beautiful Arabian Gulf makes the view just like a postcard.
Tons of Activities
From the Dubai Marina Mall right up to JBR Beach, there are several activities to do here. This can range from water sports, spas, food trips, and shopping sprees.
World-Class Amenities
From local stops to international offerings, the Marina is an outlet to the most explosive dining options, shopping centers, and amenities everyone can enjoy.
Walkability and Accessibility
Dubai Marina is fully walkable, enabling visitors and residents to reach key areas of the district even without setting foot in a car.
Excellent Location
Because of its prime spot within the city, it’s close to key areas and destinations. This makes travel to other attractions in Dubai easier.
Cons
Traffic Congestion
Similarly, the popular neighborhood can be congested with traffic. The main roads can also get busy, especially during the weekends and evenings. Parking can be challenging.
Higher Costs
As one of Dubai’s prime districts, hotels, rentals, and dining can be more expensive compared to other neighborhoods.
Crowded on Weekends and Holidays
Since it’s popular with visitors, residents, and tourists, the Dubai Marina can get pretty crowded on weekends and holidays.
Final Thoughts
Dubai Marina is an iconic lifestyle destination that sports a waterfront design filled with towering skyscrapers. For residents, it’s a dream for accessibility and ease of access. For visitors, it’s a whole district of attractions that never seems to end.
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