Al Khan Beach, Sharjah, UAE — The Complete Guide to Sharjah’s Coastal Gem
If you think the best beaches in the UAE are only in Dubai, you might be overlooking one of Sharjah’s most beautiful coastal escapes — Al Khan Beach. Stretching along a pristine 600-meter shoreline, this destination blends family-friendly leisure, marine adventure, and cultural proximity like nowhere else in the emirate.
Just minutes from the Sharjah Aquarium and Maritime Museum, Al Khan Beach offers everything from thrilling water sports and beach volleyball to peaceful reading corners and golden sunsets over the Arabian Gulf. It’s not just a beach — it’s an experience that mirrors Sharjah’s evolving coastal identity.
Overview of Al Khan Beach
Al Khan Beach is Sharjah’s first public beach development, located in the Al Khan district, about 25 km from Downtown Dubai and a 10-minute drive from central Sharjah.
Its soft white sand, clean water, and community-oriented design make it a local favorite for families, solo travelers, and adventure seekers.
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Emirate | Sharjah |
| Location | Al Khan District, near Sharjah Aquarium |
| Coordinates | 25.3280° N, 55.3670° E |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Opening Hours | 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Parking | Free and paid options available |
Why Visit Al Khan Beach?
Unlike the bustling beaches of Dubai, Al Khan Beach offers a calmer, cleaner, and more culturally rooted experience. It’s designed to balance modern recreation with Sharjah’s family-first ethos — featuring lifeguards, shaded picnic areas, and a dedicated children’s playground.
The shoreline gently slopes into shallow waters, making it safe for swimming, while the nearby G20 Beach Sports Center provides equipment rentals for sports like surfing, kayaking, and parasailing.
Whether you’re seeking a quiet sunrise walk, a jet-ski thrill, or a family picnic, Al Khan Beach delivers the best of both adventure and serenity.
Best Things to Do at Al Khan Beach
1. Dive into Water Adventures
Adrenaline-seekers will find no shortage of aquatic fun here.
Available activities include:
- Jet skiing and flyboarding
- Banana boat rides
- Kayaking and paddleboarding
- Kite surfing and parasailing
A professional surf school operates along the coast, providing lessons for beginners and intermediate surfers looking to ride Sharjah’s gentle waves. For those preferring a calm paddle, the lagoon side is ideal for kayaking.
💡 Safety Tip: Lifeguards are stationed throughout the day, and a rescue center ensures swimmer safety during all operating hours.
2. Play Beach Sports
Sports enthusiasts can join casual games of volleyball or beach football, while families can bring their kids for some friendly competition in the sand.
The atmosphere is social yet relaxed — perfect for visitors who enjoy connecting with locals and fellow travelers.
3. Unwind with a Good Book
What makes Al Khan Beach truly unique is its UNESCO-backed mobile library, introduced as part of Sharjah Global Book Capital 2019.
Here, visitors can borrow books in multiple languages — from novels to children’s stories — and enjoy reading under shaded canopies by the sea.
It’s one of the few beaches in the world where literature meets leisure.
4. Family-Friendly Fun
For families, Al Khan Beach feels like an outdoor playground.
Children can enjoy:
- Play slides
- Sandcastle building
- Games like sand Pictionary
The beach’s clean environment, calm waves, and patrolled zones make it a top pick for families looking for a worry-free day out.
5. Picnic and Dining Options
Pack your own picnic or visit the onsite café for light snacks and refreshments.
For a full meal, Sammach Seafood Restaurant, just a five-minute walk away, offers coastal delicacies like lobster thermidor, calamari, and hammour sayadieh.
Nearby, you’ll also find international dining spots and Arabic grills along Al Khan Corniche Street, offering a taste of Sharjah’s culinary diversity.
6. Visit Nearby Attractions
Al Khan Beach sits in a prime cultural corridor of Sharjah.
Within minutes, you can explore:
- Sharjah Aquarium – 450 m away
- Maritime Museum – 400 m away
- Al Qasba – 2.4 km (canals, restaurants, Ferris wheel)
- Al Noor Island – 4.8 km (art, nature, and light installations)
This mix of marine, cultural, and nature attractions makes Al Khan Beach an easy addition to any Sharjah itinerary.
7. Relax and Watch the Sunset
As the day ends, the beach transforms into a peaceful vantage point overlooking the glowing Persian Gulf horizon.
Locals often gather for evening walks or sunset photography, with the Sharjah skyline forming a stunning backdrop.
Hotels Near Al Khan Beach
There’s a wide range of accommodations nearby, from affordable apartments to beachfront resorts.
| Hotel | Distance | Rating | Avg. Price (AED) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emirates Stars Hotel Apartments | 1.6 km | 4.0 | 280–350 |
| Pullman Sharjah | 1.8 km | 4.5 | 350–450 |
| Sharjah Carlton Hotel | 2.0 km | 4.2 | 300–400 |
| Sheraton Sharjah Beach Resort | 2.2 km | 4.3 | 400–500 |
Most hotels offer free Wi-Fi, beach access, and family facilities such as pools and kids’ play zones.
Getting There and Parking
- By Car: The easiest way to reach Al Khan Beach is via Al Khan Street, directly connected to Al Taawun Road.
- Parking:
- Free street parking (limited availability)
- Paid parking lots near the main entrance (AED 5–10/hour)
- Dedicated disabled parking available
Public transportation options are limited, so private cars or taxis are recommended.
Best Time to Visit & Weather
The best months to visit are November to March, when temperatures range between 18°C and 26°C.
Avoid midday visits in summer (June–September), as humidity and heat peak above 40°C.
Best Hours:
🕖 7:00–10:00 AM and 4:00–6:30 PM — ideal for swimming, photography, and sunset views.
Facilities at Al Khan Beach
- Clean showers, changing rooms, and toilets
- Sun loungers and umbrella rentals
- Lifeguards on duty
- Shaded rest zones and family seating
- Two nearby mosques: Al Khan Mosque and Suhail Ibn Dabbas Mosque
Al Khan Beach vs Other UAE Beaches
| Beach | Location | Entry Fee | Crowd Level | Family-Friendly |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Al Khan Beach | Sharjah | Free | Moderate | ✅ Yes |
| Al Mamzar Beach | Dubai | AED 5 | High | ✅ Yes |
| Jumeirah Beach | Dubai | Free | Very High | ✅ Yes |
| Khor Fakkan Beach | Sharjah | Free | Moderate | ✅ Yes |
| White Beach | Dubai | AED 150+ | Exclusive | 🚫 Adults Only |
FAQs About Al Khan Beach
1. Is Al Khan Beach free to enter?
Yes, entry is completely free. Only paid services like water sports or equipment rentals incur charges.
2. What are the opening hours?
The beach is open daily from 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM. Hours may extend during festivals or public holidays.
3. Is it safe for families?
Absolutely. The shallow waters, lifeguards, and children’s play zones make it ideal for family outings.
4. Are there lifeguards on duty?
Yes, trained lifeguards patrol the beach throughout the day for visitor safety.
5. What’s the best time to visit?
Early morning or late afternoon is ideal for comfortable weather and lighter crowds.
6. Are there restaurants nearby?
Yes, you’ll find cafés on-site and restaurants like Sammach Seafood and Al Qasba eateries within walking distance.
7. Which attractions are nearby?
Top attractions include Sharjah Aquarium, Maritime Museum, Al Qasba, and Al Noor Island — all within 10 minutes.
8. How can I get to Al Khan Beach from Dubai?
Drive via E11 (Sheikh Zayed Road) towards Al Taawun Road, then follow signs to Al Khan District. The drive takes about 30 minutes.
Final Thoughts
Al Khan Beach embodies the spirit of modern Sharjah — a place where tradition, community, and coastal leisure intersect.
Whether you’re a resident looking for a weekend retreat or a traveler exploring the emirate’s quieter side, this beach promises tranquility, beauty, and adventure in one seamless experience.
For more travel insights, hotel guides, and local attractions across the UAE, visit TheDubaiWeb.com — your trusted source for authentic, experience-based travel content in the Emirates.
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