Fantasizing about a leisurely day at the beach with blue waters, pristine sand, style-infused sunbeds, and breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf?
Your dream comes true with Soul Beach in Abu Dhabi — a sophisticated beach haven that’s as peaceful as it is photogenic.
Whether you’re a UAE resident seeking a weekend getaway or a visitor who’s here to see the capital, this beach is guaranteed to provide a laid-back and luxurious atmosphere that will appeal to all types of visitors. So grab your flip-flops — read on for everything you need to know about Soul Beach, simply and in Q&A style.
What Exactly Is Soul Beach?
Soul Beach is a stunning, well-organized public beach located on Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi’s iconic luxury destination.
The beach spans over 1 km of white sand with clear turquoise waters and is part of the Mamsha Al Saadiyat beachfront community — a lively promenade filled with boutique shops, cafes, art installations, and cycling paths.
It’s not your average beach — Soul Beach provides a serene, isolated, and quasi-resort atmosphere, without the exorbitant cost of a hotel day pass. It gets just the right blend of coastal sleek architecture and friendlier tech-enabled services.
Where Is Soul Beach Located?
Soul Beach is situated on Mamsha Al Saadiyat, a seaside promenade along the west coast of Saadiyat Island, off Abu Dhabi city.
How far from Major Points?
- Abu Dhabi city center: 15–20 minutes by car
- Abu Dhabi Airport: 30 minutes
- Dubai Marina: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yas Island (Ferrari World, Warner Bros): 20 minutes
If you have GPS or are using an app like Uber or Careem, simply enter:
- Soul Beach, Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi
There’s lots of paid parking and convenient drop-off spots.
What Are the Opening Hours of Soul Beach?
Soul Beach is everyday open from 7:00 AM until sunset. Its closing time changes depending on the season — generally 6:30 PM during winter and 7:00–7:30 PM during summer.
Insider tips:
- Early mornings (prior to 10 AM) are ideal for quiet walks and serene swims.
- Golden hour in late afternoon is ideal for photography.
- Weekdays are less crowded than weekends or public holidays.
What Amenities Can I Expect at Soul Beach?
Soul Beach is not just sun and sand — it’s also about style, comfort, and convenience. Here’s what’s included with beach access:
Key amenities are:
- Sunbeds and umbrellas reserved
- Showers and changing rooms
- Well-maintained, clean toilets
- Lifeguards on duty
- QR-code food & drink ordering
- Wi-Fi availability (near some lounging areas)
- Security patrols
- Access amenities for people of determination
Food and drink:
You can order a selection menu of beach snacks, soft drinks, mocktails, and bites via a QR code on your sunbed. Service is quick and contactless.
Note: Food from outside, alcohol, and shisha are prohibited on the beach.
How Much Does Soul Beach Cost?
In comparison to some of the more expensive hotel beaches, Soul Beach is great value for money.
Current prices (as of 2025):
- Weekdays (Mon–Thu):
- AED 50 per adult
- AED 25 per child (6–12 years)
- Weekends & Public Holidays (Fri–Sun):
- AED 75 per adult
- AED 35 per child
- Children under 6: FRE
Prices are inclusive of a sunbed and umbrella, but cabanas (if provided) will be extra.
You can book online or pay upon arrival at the kiosk, but reserving on weekends in advance is strongly recommended.
What Seating Options Are Available?
Soul Beach offers a neat, organized beach session where every guest gets to use a numbered sunbed — no fighting over elbow space!
Seating types:
- Standard Single Sunbed
- Double Sunbed for groups of two friends/couples
- Cabanas (limited availability, ideal for groups)
Loungers are nicely spaced apart for personal space and sanitation. There is an umbrella and side table for every sunbed — ideal for your beverage or sunscreen.
What Is Soul Beach Famous For?
Soul Beach is just loved for its vibe and appearance. This is what differentiates it:
- Pristine beach with regular maintenance
- Relaxed environment — no party sounds or raucous crowds
- Nearby are art and culture attractions (Louvre Abu Dhabi, Manarat Al Saadiyat)
- Close proximity to high-end hotels and dining establishments
- Smoke-free and pet-free area
- Family- and solo-traveler-friendly atmosphere
Best for:
- A quiet beach day for two
- Family outings to the beach
- Quiet reading alone
- Wellness and mindfulness activities
How Is Soul Beach Unique Compared to Other Abu Dhabi Beaches?
| Feature | Soul Beach | Corniche Beach | Yas Beach | Saadiyat Public Beach |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vibe | Chic, peaceful, bare | Busy, family-friendly | Up-to-date, energetic | Green, nature-based |
| Entry | Paid, with sunbed | Free/public | Paid (with F&B options) | Paid |
| Crowd | Low to medium | High | High | Medium |
| Food | App-order only | Nearby kiosks | Restaurants & bars | Limited |
| Water | Quiet and clear | Quiet but more busy | Ideal for water sports | istine |
Are There Other Attractions Nearby?
Yes! You can turn a visit to Soul Beach into a Saadiyat full-day adventure.
Cultural Sites:
- Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Manarat Al Saadiyat
- Abrahamic Family House
Food & Coffee:
- Black Tap Craft Burgers
- Ten 11 Café
- Society Saadiyat
- Alkalime (healthy food on the beach)
Hotels:
- Jumeirah at Saadiyat Island Resort
- Park Hyatt Abu Dhabi
- St. Regis Saadiyat Island
How to Book Tickets to Soul Beach?
You can book through:
- The official Soul Beach app
- Website of Aldar Properties
- Preferred in-pool credit/debit card kiosk
Tip: Weekends and holidays sell out quickly. Book in advance, especially if you’re with a group or require a cabana.
What Should I Pack?
Following is a quick summary of basics:
- Valid ID or Emirates ID
- Beachwear
- Flip-flops or sandals
- Towel (or check if it’s complimentary)
- Sunscreen
- Power bank
- Reusable water bottle
No need to bring umbrellas or snacks along — it’s all included in what you pay or order.
FAQ
Here are a few queries that others have asked on the topic that you might find helpful at the same time.
The cost of a weekdays entrance in Soul Beach is AED50 per person and about AED75 on the weekends.
The Soul Beach Music Festival 2025 is at MAHO, St. Maarten. It will feature global superstars such as Cedric the Entertainer, Charlie Wilson, and Muni Long.
The Soul Beach Dubai is a private beach, with soft sand and clear blue water. The beach is located very close to Jebel Ali Beach, and at the foot of the Palm Ali Island.
Is Soul Beach Worth A Visit?
Absolutely — YES. If you’re seeking affordable, but high-end beach action in Abu Dhabi, Soul Beach nails it on all fronts: outlook, ambiance, tidiness, and accessibility.
It’s not the frenetic, thronged, or commercialized type of beach — it’s your serene ocean paradise with an injection of luxury and plenty of soul.
So whether you’re lounging in the sun, unwinding, or socializing with friends on the beach, Soul Beach is a place that should be on your Abu Dhabi bucket list.
