Dubai Marina offers plenty of entertainment for families, friends and couples – here are some highlights to tick off on your next visit


As far as locations go, there's no denying the pull of Dubai Marina. Skyscraper residential addresses are poised alongside the snaking canal and marina, where multimillion-dollar yachts patiently wait for their next outing. The area, which extends from Al Sufouh Road near Dubai Media City and comprises both Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and The Beach development, has forged itself as one of the city's busiest neighbourhoods. Naturally, there's plenty to do. Here are the highlights just begging for your time.


Eat breakfast at Dubai Marina Yacht Club


Settle in for a full English breakfast and a view like no other at 25°55° Cafe Bistro inside the marina's official clubhouse. With magical views overlooking the marina waterways, shiny yachts and outdoor seating on the shaded terrace, it's a quintessential Dubai Marina experience and the best way to get your bearings. Served on an iron skillet, the ‘Marina Breakfast’ is offered all day and features all the bells and whistles, including hash browns, mushrooms, baked beans, fried eggs and sausage.

 

Go for a cruise on a traditional dhow


While the majority of Dubai's cruise trips are long dinner affairs, the great value offering from Captain Jack takes only an hour long and can be joined at any time of the day. Departing every hour from Dubai Marina, the surprisingly spacious vessel allows for voyagers to sprawl out on bean bags with cool beverages as it meanders its way through waterways of the marina, showing off the incredible architecture and scenery of the area, before making its way to the outskirts of Palm Jumeirah island.

 

Shop, eat and explore at The Beach JBR


This impressive outdoor entertainment development launched in 2014 directly opposite JBR'sThe Walk and it's been a hive of activity ever since. Its modern, low-rise design elevates the enviable beachside location and there are now more than 70 shopping and dining options, including Italian designer Roberto Cavalli's cafe concept, Cavalli Caffè. Buy some souvenirs at I Love Dubai, then head to the well-facilitated change rooms before going for a quick swim in the sea. Afterwards, refuel on grilled squid at Mediterranean find Eat Greek or mega burgers at US import, The Counter.

 

Go for a camel ride on JBR Beach


You’ll find vendors on JBR Beach just beyond The Beach development who offer camel rides from AED 50 along the shoreline. Adorned in all manner of Arabic blankets and colourful tassels, the camels may bat their lashes nonchalantly, but don't be fooled: getting on and off is quite the thrill (tip: hold on tight). Once the camel has risen to four feet and steadied itself you can enjoy the leisurely ride and snap some shots of the skyline and sea.

 

Watch the sunset at Pure Sky Lounge


Make your way to the nearby Hilton Dubai Jumeirah, before dusk descends to catch a world-famous Dubai sunset. Perched on the 35th floor, the open-air terrace is lined with glass walls that allow the sweeping views of the Gulf and Palm Jumeirah to do all the talking.

 

Have dinner at Fume


Pier 7 in Dubai Marina has carved out a name for itself as one of the city's most exclusive eating and drinking hubs. Seven dining concepts occupy each floor of the all-glass cylindrical structure adjacent to Dubai Marina Mall. Top of the list is Latin-inspired southern American restaurant and bar Fume, where comfort food is king. Always buzzing, the lounge is edgy with wooden benches and low ceilings, while the dining room is unfussy and welcoming. Like most success stories, it's cool without trying to be. Order the baby lamb ribs, and banana and bread pudding and keep the party going at Pier 7’s Cargo or Asia Asia afterwards.