The Best Sunrise and Sunset Activities in Dubai
Dubai’s dramatic skyline and breathtaking landscapes make it the perfect backdrop for unforgettable sunrise and sunset activities. If you’re exploring The best sunrise and sunset activities in Dubai, you’ll find plenty of options that cater to various interests. Whether you prefer thrilling outdoor sports, leisurely dining experiences, or calming moments of wellness, there’s something for everyone as the sun rises or sets in this vibrant city. Let’s dive into the top experiences you won’t want to miss.
Stretch out your summer days with these outdoor sunrise and sunset experiences across the city…
Sunrise: Ride the Waves with Wake Dubai
Inject a little adrenaline-fueled fun into your morning with wakeboarding or wakesurfing, enjoying the early morning light from the frothy surf of the Arabian Gulf. Wake Dubai has long offered instructor-led and independent sessions, making it suitable for beginners and seasoned surfers alike. A professional team of captains and instructors ensures a safe and thrilling ride that will have you up on the waves in no time. Each boat accommodates up to six people, with water, towels, and all equipment provided. Boats operate from both Dubai Creek and Dubai Marina, with sessions starting at 6am.
Wake Dubai, Dubai Marina and Dubai Creek, open daily from 6am to 5:30pm, starting at Dhs350. wake-dubai.com
Sunset: Tee Off Under the Lights at Meydan
While Dubai’s golf courses remain open all summer, playing mid-day rounds becomes unappealing in the 40-plus-degree heat. Night golf is a fantastic alternative, available at several of the city’s prestigious courses. At Meydan’s 9-hole championship course, night golf begins at 6pm, with tee times available until 11pm. Open to everyone without the need for a membership, it’s an excellent way for golf enthusiasts to enjoy the sport during cooler evening hours.
The Track, Meydan Golf Course, open for night golf from 6pm to 11pm daily from June to September, with costs of Dhs125 for 9 holes and Dhs250 for 18 holes. meydangolf.com
Sunrise: Start the Day with an Alfresco Breakfast at Common Grounds, Kite Beach
If you’re willing to rise early, you can indulge in an alfresco breakfast in the summer months. Begin your day with a calming beach walk at Kite Beach, a popular spot for witnessing the golden orb lift from behind the Arabian Gulf. After that, enjoy a delightful breakfast at the ever-popular Common Grounds, which opens at 6am. Before the sun heats up, indulge in colorful acai bowls, avocado toast, or five-grain banana porridge.
Common Grounds, Kite Beach, 59 Al Hadd Street, Jumeirah 3, open from 6am to 10pm. @_common.grounds
Sunset: Enjoy Sunset Sips at ZETA Seventy Seven
Set 77 floors above ground, ZETA Seventy Seven offers one of Dubai’s best vantage points for drinks with a view. This contemporary rooftop venue is adjacent to the infinity pool, with tables arranged around a central bar perfectly positioned to take in stretching views of JBR and The Palm. Thanks to its height and seaside location, you can still enjoy alfresco drinks early in summer. On Mondays, indulge in a three-hour package from 6pm to 9pm, featuring a snack platter and unlimited drinks—perfect for kicking off your week on a high note.
ZETA Seventy Seven, Address Beach Resort, JBR, open Mondays from 6pm to 9pm, priced at Dhs377 for ladies and Dhs477 for gents. Tel: (0)4 879 8866. addresshotels.com
Sunrise: Rise for Yoga in the Sky at Aura Skypool
Your self-care routine doesn’t need to be compromised by rising temperatures. Join the wellness sessions at Aura Skypool, located 50 storeys above the ground. This stunning 360-degree pool provides a breathtaking backdrop for morning yoga sessions throughout the summer. Classes start at 6:30am on Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, focusing on awakening vinyasa—a perfect blend of breathwork, mindful movement, and empowering poses. Post-session, enjoy a nourishing healthy breakfast in the lounge.
Aura Skypool, Palm Tower, 6:30am, Mondays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, priced at Dhs280. @auraskypool
Sunset: Take a Dip in the Dark at Twiggy
Bringing a slice of Riviera opulence to the shores of the Park Hyatt, Twiggy is a hotspot for pool days, DJ sets, and high-energy dining experiences through the cooler months. This summer, it transforms into a lively venue for night swimming with Tropezienne Nights every Friday and Saturday at 7pm, allowing you to catch the golden orb dip below the horizon. Enjoy moonlit swims in the lagoon pool, a Riviera-inspired menu, and live DJs spinning tunes under the stars.
Twiggy, Park Hyatt Dubai, open for night swims at 7pm every Friday and Saturday, priced at Dhs250 with Dhs150 redeemable. @twiggydubai
Sunrise: See the City from Above with a Hot Air Balloon
For visitors to Dubai, the city offers countless landmarks to explore. However, for a truly unique perspective, few experiences are as remarkable as a hot air balloon tour above the desert, which operates at sunrise until mid-June. You’ll be whisked away in the early hours for a thrilling ascent just as dawn breaks. Marvel at the stunning view of golden dunes bathed in the delicate morning light as you float above the sands. The experience includes an in-flight falcon show before returning to the city.
Hot Air Balloon UAE, daily at 4am until June 15, priced at Dhs1,100. hotairballoonuae.com
Sunset: Retreat to the Desert for Dinner at Sonara Camp
Elevating the desert dining experience, Sonara Camps operates in both Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah, but the original camp in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve stands out with all the quintessential highlights of a desert trip, enhanced by five-star food and service. Opt for the sunset lounge experience, refreshing with drinks and canapés while partaking in activities like sandboarding and camel rides under the fading sunlight. The evening culminates in a lovely dinner, illuminated by fairy lights, complemented by sharing menus and live entertainment.
Sonara Camp, located in Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, operates Tuesday to Saturday at 5:30pm, with pricing of Dhs890 for adults and Dhs390 for children until June 30. nara.ae