It’s the only beach in the UAE to make the cut
Saadiyat Beach in Abu Dhabi has officially been named one of the world’s 50 best beaches for 2026, landing an impressive 19th place and standing out as the only beach in the UAE to make the global list.
It’s a big moment for the capital, and another reminder that some of the world’s most breathtaking coastlines are right on our doorstep, according to The World’s 50 Best Beaches.
The ranking actually covers the wider Saadiyat Beach area, which includes a mix of public and private spots like Kai Beach, Saadiyat Beach Club, and long stretches of shoreline connected to luxury resorts, all flowing along the island’s natural coastline.
Stretching across Saadiyat Island, the beach is loved for its soft white sand, clear turquoise water, and that rare calm, untouched feel, even though it’s just minutes away from Abu Dhabi’s cultural and lifestyle hotspots.
And that’s part of its charm. Despite being so close to the city, it still feels like a proper escape; peaceful, open, and ideal for anyone wanting a slower, more relaxed beach day.
Beyond the postcard views, Saadiyat Beach also stands out for its strong focus on the environment.
It’s an important nesting ground for endangered hawksbill turtles, with ongoing conservation work helping protect them along the shoreline.
The surrounding waters are part of the Saadiyat Marine National Park, a protected area filled with dolphins, turtles, and rich marine life, giving the beach an extra layer of natural depth beyond just sand and sea.
The list itself is put together from votes by more than 1,000 travel professionals, including journalists, creators, and industry experts.
Beaches are judged on everything from natural beauty and water quality to wildlife, remoteness, and the overall experience.
This year’s lineup features some seriously iconic destinations across the Maldives, Greece, Australia, and the Caribbean, but Saadiyat more than holds its own in the mix.
For Abu Dhabi, the recognition only adds to Saadiyat Island’s growing reputation as a must-visit destination.
Already home to luxury resorts and cultural landmarks like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the wider Saadiyat Cultural District, it’s one of those rare places that blends beach life and culture so effortlessly.
Saadiyat Beach’s spot in the global top 20 highlights not just how beautiful it is, but how well it balances nature, development, and preservation, making it one of those destinations that feels both world-class and surprisingly close to home.
For further information, visit worlds50beaches.com
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