J1 Beach is Dubai's most upscale beachfront destination, a 500-metre stretch in Jumeirah 1 that replaced the former La Mer South in late 2024. Developed by Merex Investment, it features 13 premium licensed beach clubs and restaurants along a single strip – including Gigi Rigolatto, Sirene Beach by Gaia, Baoli, Chouchou, Gitano, African Queen and La Baia – all with direct beach access, pools, cabanas and unobstructed Burj Al Arab views.
Quick facts:
Opened 2024 · 13 venues · Licensed dining · Premium beachfront
Did you know?
J1 Beach is not a public beach – the entire 500-metre stretch of sand is private and accessible only through one of the 13 venues, each with its own day pass or minimum spend.
Best time to visit:
Afternoon into sunset for the best beach club experience; evenings for dinner at the upscale restaurants under twinkling lights.
Where to eat nearby:
The experience includes 13 beach clubs and restaurants on-site – from Greek-Mediterranean Sirene Beach by Gaia to French Chouchou and Mexican Gitano, all accessible by golf cart shuttle.
Tip:
Beach access requires booking a sunbed or table at one of the venues – day passes typically range from AED 200–500 with most amounts redeemable on food and drinks. Prices may vary – check official website.
J1 Beach
Opened late 2024, J1 Beach is quickly establishing itself as Dubai's premier upscale beach destination. Reviewers praise the 13 beach clubs, the Burj Al Arab views and the curated riviera atmosphere. Gigi Rigolatto, Sirene Beach by Gaia and Baoli are the standout venues.
Is J1 Beach a public beach?
No – the beach is private and accessible only through one of the 13 restaurants or beach clubs. Each venue charges a sunbed fee or minimum spend, with most amounts redeemable on food and drinks.
How is it different from La Mer?
J1 Beach replaced La Mer South in 2024 with 13 premium licensed beach clubs and restaurants – it's significantly more upscale than the previous family-casual La Mer complex.
What are the typical hours?
Most venues open 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM daily; individual venue hours vary slightly.
Is there a dress code?
Yes, smart casual to upscale depending on the venue. No beach attire inside the restaurants.
How do I get there?
By car with valet parking (free for 4 hours via venue voucher), taxi drop-off at the main gate, or RTA bus routes 8, 9 and F55A stop near Jumeirah 1.