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Insider guide to Abu Dhabi Kayaking 2024

Abu Dhabi has many kayaking options, and you can enjoy the activity in multiple locations. Arabiers has prepared a kayaking Abu Dhabi insider guide to help you identify the best kayaking venues in Abu Dhabi and also some useful tips to help you select a memorable kayak experience.

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Best Kayaking Locations in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is full of ever-green mangrove forests, that grow along the beautiful beaches. You can go for a kayak tour among these mangrove forests when you are in Abu Dhabi city. There are many authorized tour companies that provide kayaking adventures to visitors in Dubai.

Below are some of the top venues where you can go for a kayak adventure in Abu Dhabi :

Eastern mangroves Abu Dhabi Kayaking

Eastern mangroves Abu Dhabi Kayaking
Eastern mangrove promenade
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The Eastern mangroves, located in the Abu Dhabi metropolis. Kayaking through this route offers you unique views of Abu Dhabi, that is different from the normal modern views of the city. You get to discover the raw side of the city as you paddle through the meandering canals of the eastern mangroves.

You can opt for a 7am, 9am, 11am, 2pm or a 4pm kayak tour depending on your availability. We have a guide who will lead you through this natural wonder.

In fortunate enough, you may spot rare species of birds, various marine life, mamals, turtles, foxes and at times even flamingoes.

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Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park
Eastern mangroves Abu Dhabi Kayaking

Best for : Those who visiting Sir Bani Yas island

Eastern mangroves Abu Dhabi Kayaking

Top tip : Book a stay in Sir Bani Yas island

Eastern mangroves Abu Dhabi Kayaking

Approximate Cost : 160 AED per adult & 130 AED per child

Louvre Abu Dhabi Kayaking

Louvre Abu Dhabi Kayaking
Eastern mangrove promenade
Click here for Location

Go for a kayak tour through the eastern mangrove promenade offers you beautiful views of the Louvre Abu Dubai. The tour takes you around the Louvre and you get to view the majestic structure from all angles.

The tour lasts for 60 minutes and an experienced guide will accompany you throughout the trip. Before the trip starts, we usually give our visitors a brief introduction about kayaking and the safety procedures to follow.

You can go for kayaking around the Louvre Abu Dhabi even if you have no prior experience of kayaking. We have a guide to teach you how to kayak until you get it. Those experienced in kayaking are also welcomed to try this tour to enjoy views of the Louvre.

If the individual going for the tour is aged between 6 to 12 years, they must be accompanied by their parents or guardian.

We advise you to dress appropriately when going for a kayak tour. In fact, we provide changing rooms near the departure point to give you room to change and dress in more comfortable clothing that is suitable for kayaking.

The kayak experience may be postponed or cancelled if there are sudden changes in the weather. If by any chance your session is cancelled, we will notify you by phone.

Available dates and timings: Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10:00AM, 2:00PM, 4:00PM and 7:00PM.

Available dates and timings :

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 10:00AM, 2:00PM, 4:00PM and 7:00PM

Louvre Abu Dhabi Kayaking
Louvre Abu Dhabi Kayaking

Best for : Getting close to Louvre Museum

Louvre Abu Dhabi Kayaking

Top tip : Special Full Moon Kayaking Tour

Louvre Abu Dhabi Kayaking

Contact details : +971555334238

Louvre Abu Dhabi Kayaking

Approximate Cost : AED120 per person

Jubail Island kayaking

Jubail Island kayaking
Jubail Island South launch point
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Jubail Island kayaking
Information
Noukhada Kayak Tours

Jubail island is located between Saadiyat and Yas Islands and in only a 12 minutes’ drive from downtown Abu Dhabi. the island extends for around 400 hectares and is full of luxury and middle class residential areas, retail outlets, offices and several restaurants.

Despite the modernization of the island, it is also home to native mangrove forests that beautify the seashore sceneries even more. Kayaking along the shores of Jubail Island exposes you to the beauty and uniqueness of the mangrove ecosystem of the island.

Jubail Island kayaking
Jubail Island kayaking

Best for : Get to know more about Jubail Island

Jubail Island kayaking

Top tip : Book in advance for high tide

Jubail Island kayaking

Contact details : +9712 558 1889

Jubail Island kayaking

Approximate Cost : AED 200 per person

Al Bahia Beach kayaking

Al Bahia Beach kayaking
Al Bahia Beach, Abu Dhabi
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Al Bahia Beach kayaking
Information
Noukhada Kayak Tours

Going for a kayak tour along the shores of Al Bahia beach in Abu Dhabi to explre the stunning views. Also, the location offers a serene ambience that is great if you are looking to relax and unwind while sightseeing.

This kayak location is perfect for both beginners and experienced kayak lovers. If you are a first timer, our guide will arrange for a 30 minutes’ lesson before the experience starts to brief you about the experience and the safety precautions to take.

Al Bahia Beach kayaking
Al Bahia Beach kayaking

Best for : Exploring shore of Abu Dhabi

Al Bahia Beach kayaking

Top tip : Book in advance

Al Bahia Beach kayaking

Contact details : +971 55 8855055

Al Bahia Beach kayaking

Approximate Cost : Single Kayak 2 hours at 250 AED

Zaya Nurai Island kayaking

Zaya Nurai Island kayaking
Zaya Nurai Island welcome center 10 minutes away from Yas Mall
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Zaya Nurai Island kayaking
Information
Zaya Nurai Play

Zara Nurai in Abu Dhabi is often regarded as the Maldives of the UAE. This is mostly attributed to the beauty of the island, lush greenery, and the azure blue waters that surround the island.

You can go for a kayak tour or a stand up paddle boarding to enjoy the stunning views of the surroundings.

The island is only 12 minutes away from Saadiyat island by boat and 60 minutes from downtown Abu Dhabi driving by road.

Zaya Nurai Island kayaking
Zaya Nurai Island kayaking

Best for : Weekend gateway

Zaya Nurai Island kayaking

Top tip : Look out for day pass

Zaya Nurai Island kayaking

Contact details : +971 2 506 6222

Zaya Nurai Island kayaking

Approximate Cost : Day passes at the cost of AED 480, AED420 can be redeemable on F&B, spa and activities.

Wadi Adventure kayaking – Al Ain

Wadi Adventure kayaking – Al Ain
Al Ain (1 hour away from Abu Dhabi)
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Wadi, in Abu Dhabi, has the longest whitewater channels in the world, which extend for over 1,100 meters. The location is good for both beginners and experienced kayak adventurers.

We usually brief our guests about the safety measures before starting the experience. In addition to that there are more safety checks along the route and all the rapids have access to a conveyor belt.

For more safety, we provide you with safety gear and also, offer lessons to those who want to learn the ropes before starting a kayak tour.

Wadi Adventure kayaking – Al Ain
Wadi Adventure kayaking – Al Ain

Best for : Adventurous kayakers

Wadi Adventure kayaking – Al Ain

Top tip : Wear sports & Park 11am-7pm, Open Beach 3pm-7pm

Wadi Adventure kayaking – Al Ain

Contact details : +971 3 781 8422

Wadi Adventure kayaking – Al Ain

Approximate Cost : 175 AED + Entry 65 AED for adults

Saadiyat island kayaking

Saadiyat island kayaking
Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort Abu Dhabi
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The Jumeirah beach at Saadiyat Island is 400 meters long, and a perfect location for eco-friendly water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding.

The island has warm waters that also attract dolphins, which if you are lucky enough, you will spot them when kayaking.

Saadiyat island kayaking
Saadiyat island kayaking

Best for : Who is staying Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort or near by

Saadiyat island kayaking

Top tip : Book in advance

Saadiyat island kayaking

Contact details : +971 2 811 4444

Abu Dhabi Corniche Kayaking

Abu Dhabi Corniche Kayaking
Hiltonia, Corniche
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Abu Dhabi Corniche Kayaking
Information
Watercool UAE

The Abu Dhabi Corniche is probably the most populated kayak location in Abu Dhabi, but, despite that, it offers one of the best experiences in the emirate.

This kayak experience lasts for 75 minutes and follows the route through Hilton beach club to the UAE flagpole and back.

When you kayak close to the coast, you will be able to spot attractions like the Marina Mall, Heritage Village and the Abu Dhabi Theatre, among others. You also get to enjoy beautiful views of the Abu Dhabi skyline.

If you are experienced in kayaking, you can go for a trip from Hiltonia Corniche to Lulu island and back. This trip will last for 4 hours, and is a great adventure for experienced kayakers.

Abu Dhabi Corniche Kayaking
Abu Dhabi Corniche Kayaking

Best for : Who is staying Abu Dhabi corniche area

Abu Dhabi Corniche Kayaking

Top tip : Kayak towards UAE biggest flag

Abu Dhabi Corniche Kayaking

Contact details : +971 2 681 1900

Abu Dhabi Corniche Kayaking

Approximate Cost : AED 60 for 30 mins, AED 90 for an hour, AED 180 for two hours

Sir Bani Yas island Kayaking

Sir Bani Yas island Kayaking
Anantara Al Yamm Resort
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Sir Bani Yas island Kayaking
Information
Kayaking Anantara

Sir Bani Yas island is a famous destination for nature safaris, adventure tours and spa retreats among other many things. The island is regarded as a leading tourism destination in the world due to the many tourism opportunities found there.

One of the major tourist attractions in Sir Bani Yas is a kayak tour along the mangroves. This tour is usually guided by an experienced instructor and is available throughout the year.

When you go for this tour, our guides will also educate you about the plant species found in the mangroves and their role in the coastal environment.

When you go kayaking when there are high tides, you have the opportunity to explore deep into the mangroves and the low tides are great because you get to spot many birds, crabs and fish.

We usually put first the security of our guests by ensuring you have a life jacket and equipping the kayak with a first aid kit for emergencies.

You are advised to put on clothes and shoes that are suitable for water sports since you have high chances of getting wet. You should also carry a towel and extra clothes so that you can change after the experience.

Other things to carry include a hat and sunscreen if it is sunny and a waterproof camera to capture the memories.

Sir Bani Yas Island Kayaking
Sir Bani Yas island Kayaking

Best for : Those who visiting Sir Bani Yas island

Sir Bani Yas island Kayaking

Top tip : Book a stay in Sir Bani Yas island

Sir Bani Yas island Kayaking

Contact details : +971 2 681 1900

Kayaking Rates list

Location Per adult – AED Per child - AED Remarks
Eastern mangroves 160 130 Single, double, family kayak boats available
Louvre Abu Dhabi 120 120 full moon tour around the museum available
Jubail Island 200 120 Needs to be booked in advance
Al Bahia Beach 250 120 2 hours tour
Zaya Nurai island 250 120 Day passes at the cost of AED 480, AED 420 can be redeemable on F&B, spa and activities.
Wadi Adventure 175 AED + Entry 65 AED for adults 120 Guests must be higher then 1.2m
Saadiyat island 175 AED + Entry 65 AED for adults 120 Guests must be higher then 1.2m
Abu Dhabi corniche 175 AED + Entry 65 AED for adults 120 Guests must be higher then 1.2m
Sir bani yas island 175 AED + Entry 65 AED for adults 120 Guests must be higher then 1.2m

Safety Tips for Kayaking in Abu Dhabi

  • Always put on a life jacket when kayaking.
  • Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat.
  • Carry enough drinking water for hydration and wear a hat and sunscreen for sun protection.
  • Pay attention to the surroundings and watch out for other boats and watercraft.
  • Do not go kayaking in rough or choppy waters especially when the wind is strong.
  • Learn the basic kayaking techniques like using the paddle.
  • Tell someone your Kayaking plans and estimated return time so they can keep track for safety purposes.
  • Do not go too far into the open water especially if you are a beginner, but instead kayak close to the shores.
kayaking image

Best Time to Kayak in Abu Dhabi - Sunrise Or Sunset

You should compare kayaking during sunrise or sunset and then decide the most ideal time for you.

Aspect Sunrise Sunset
Weather Conditions Generally calm and tranquil waters Calm conditions with decreasing winds
Temperature Cooler temperatures, ideal for paddling Gradual decrease in temperature
Lighting Soft, golden hues create stunning scenery Vibrant colors and dramatic sky
Wildlife Viewing Increased chances of spotting wildlife Potential to see marine life and birds
Crowds Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere Possibility of more kayakers, but still enjoyable
Photography Excellent for capturing sunrise reflections Beautiful sunset silhouettes and colors
Duration Longer duration as it starts early in the morning Shorter duration as it ends early in the evening
Safety Adequate visibility, but be cautious of glare Ensure visibility with proper lighting

Photography Opportunity while Kayaking in Abu Dhabi

Kayaking in Abu Dhabi gives you an opportunity to capture stunning photos of yourself and the surroundings. Take out your camera and capture photos of the stunning Abu Dhabi skyline and iconic landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

You also get the opportunity to capture the natural coastline beauty from a different perspective. Additionally, you get to spot wildlife like dolphins, sea turtles and colorful fish.

Ensure the camera you carry is waterproof, or if using a smartphone, ensure it has a case to protect it on the water.

Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park
Things to do at Eastern
Mangrove Lagoon National Park
  • Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National park kayaking guided tour
  • Eastern Mangrove stand up paddling
  • Eastern Mangrove Eco boat tour
  • Eastern Mangrove dhow boat sightseeing tour
  • Dine at BOA steak house restaurant
  • Mangrove promenade restaurants and walking

Environment Impact of Kayaking in Abu Dhabi

As we are enjoying a kayaking tour, we should always remember to be careful about its effects to the environment. We have to follow rules that aim to conserve the environment even as we enjoy the experience.

Respect Wildlife

Please stay away from places where animals live and try not to disturb them or their habitats.

Keep it Clean

Do not leave any trash behind when kayaking in Abu Dhabi. you should ensure to pick up after yourself and dispose trash properly to avoid littering.

Protect Nature

The mangrove is home to marine life so you should paddle gently to avoid harming the plants and animals living there.

Use Safe Products

Ensure that any products you use such as sunscreen is safe for the environment, that is the plants and animals in the water.

Follow the Rules

When kayaking ensure you follow the set rules and regulation. Also, follow the paths that you are instructed to and adhere to the speed limits put in place.

Spread the Word

Tell your friends and people you are kayaking with to kayak responsibly so that we can all join together to take care of the environment.

Local Kayaking Events in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi hosts fun and exciting kayaking events throughout the year. There are a wide variety of events and everybody can find something that will interest them.

Abu Dhabi Kayak Races
Abu Dhabi Kayak Races

Abu Dhabi hosts many kayak races that are usually hosted by local clubs and sports groups. You may join in the races and compete in sprints or long distance races to challenge your kayak skills, and also have fun.

Sunset Kayaking Tours
Sunset Kayaking Tours

Go for a kayak tour during sunset and paddle along the Abu Dhabi coastline to relax and explore. You will discover some hidden gems along the kayak routes, explore the mangrove forests, the scenic waterways and get unique views of the Abu Dhabi skyline.

Kayak Clean-up Events
Kayak Clean-up Events

You can help clean the Abu Dhabi waterways by participating in the kayak clean-up activities. During these events, you paddle around the kayak routes and pick up trash to conserve the environment and keep the water clean.

Family-Friendly Kayak Festivals
Family-Friendly Kayak Festivals

You can come with your whole family to the kayak festivals hosted at the waterfronts in Abu Dhabi. When there, everyone can participate in the variety of activities like kayaking lessons, games and sampling the food stalls.

A kayak festival with family is a great way to bond with your loved ones and spend quality time while outdoors.

Kayak Fishing Tournaments
Kayak Fishing Tournaments

If you love fishing adventures, you can go for a kayak fishing tournament where you compete with other participants to catch the biggest fish.

Moonlight Kayaking Expeditions
Abu Dhabi Kayak Races

Go for a moonlight kayak tour discover the charm of the Abu Dhabi waters and also enjoy the peaceful environment. The night is usually quiet and the waters very calm, offering you a beautiful and relaxing experience.

Companies offering kayaking in Abu Dhabi

  • Join the Sea Hawk’s Kayak tours along the Abu Dhabi mangrove forests, if you are looking for a fun family-friendly adventure. The charges for children between 3 to 12 years is 130 AED (USD 30) and adults are charged 160 AED (USD 41).
  • Noukhada is the pioneer of kayaking tours in Abu Dhabi, and offers you takes you around into the natural mangroves of Abu Dhabi and the numerous islands.
Type of Kayaking Tour Price per person Duration
Low or High Tide 150 AED (USD 41) 2 hours
Monthly Full moon tour 200 AED (USD 54)
Half-day island tour 250 AED (USD 67) +350 AED(USD 95) for BBQ + 450 AED (USD 123) for overnight camping Half Day
  • Noukhada also have rental kayaks, windsurfing boards, SUPs and sailing boats, and also offer lessons for beginners.
  • Wadi adventures offers kayaking tours and also other thrilling tours, which when combined, result to a very exciting experience. Here, you will find the first artificial white water rafting in Abu Dhabi and the longest kayaking channel in the world, which is 1.7 kilometers long.
  • You can also try surfing at the foot of the Jebel Hafeet Mountain. More so, the trainers there offer lessons for all levels of adventurers. You can choose to bring your own kayaking gear or just rent from the on-site shop.
  • The Western Marine Sports Club (WMSC), is the first watersport provider in Al Dhafra, and hosts many marine sports and activities.
  • The Desert Islands Watersports Centre offers kayaking tours to visitors in Sir Bani Yas Island. The Kayak trail is 8 kilometers long and fishing is not allowed in the region.

List of parks in Abu Dhabi

01Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park
Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park
Things to do at Eastern
Mangrove Lagoon National Park
  • Guided kayaking tour
  • Stand up paddling
  • Eco boat tour
  • Dhow boat sightseeing tour
  • Dining at BOA steakhouse restaurant
  • Walk around and Eat at the Mangrove promenade restaurants

The Mangrove National Park is located in the outskirts of Abu Dhabi city and is managed by the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi. the park makes up 75% of the mangrove forests in the UAE, making it the largest mangrove ecosystem in the country.

The park is also made up of salt marshes, algae and mud flats. Both humans and animals safely coexist in this park. The mangroves are home to aquatic animals, mammals, reptiles and several bird’s species.

The mangroves also protect the region from tidal surges, since the trees act as windbreakers and also purify the water and reduces carbon dioxide in the air.

The most common animals that you will spot at the park include herons, flamingos, turtles, foxes, dolphins and crabs.

02Jubail Mangrove Park
Eastern Mangrove Lagoon National Park
Things to do at
Jubail Mangrove Park
  • Jubail Island Kayak tour
  • Walking tour along the mangroves and touring the floating platform
  • Meet the rangers and ask any questions
  • Take Group tours
  • Watch birds

The Jubail mangrove park is the first self-sustained park in Abu Dhabi that offer educational, natural and leisure tours. The park is home to many birds and aquatic species. You can use the boardwalks to acess different parts of the park.

03Abu Dhabi corniche
Abu Dhabi corniche
Things to do at Abu Dhabi corniche
  • Go for a Corniche kayak tour
  • Cycle around the Corniche
  • Take a e-scooter ride
  • Kayak from Hiltonia Beach Club
  • Visit the Founder’s Memorial
  • Visit the Marina Mall
  • Take a ride on the Marina Eye
  • Visit the Heritage Village

The Corniche road is 8 kilometers long and has a beautiful waterfront filled with kids play area, cafes, restaurants and separate pathways for cycling and walking. The beach park has many umbrellas where people hangout during the weekends.

There are lifeguards to ensure safety at the beach and to ensure that swimmers do not go past 40 meters from the shores. The Corniche in Abu Dhabi has the Blue Flag Status, which is an eco-friendly guarantee that the beach and the marinas around have clean waters.

The Abu Dhabi Corniche can host up to 50,00 visitors and is divided into families, singles and general area sections.

Kayak shop Abu Dhabi

You can buy your own kayaking gear and other necessities if you want to go for a solo kayak tour or just want to own a kayak. Here are the shops that sell the necessities in Abu Dhabi :

Kayak shop Abu Dhabi
Adventure HQ
Address:
Adventure HQ, Dalma Mall- Abu Dhabi -
United Arab Emirates

Phone:
+971 2 445 6995

Checkout the available boat and paddles

Shop Now
GO Sport
GO Sport
Address:
3rd Floor, Abu Dhabi Mall - Abu Dhabi -
United Arab Emirates

Phone:
+971 2 445 6995

Checkout the available boat and paddles

Shop Now
Tactical-Trading (Abu Dhabi Branch)
Phone:
+971 2 445 6995

Checkout the available boat and paddles

Shop Now
Gulf Marine Sports
Phone:
+971 2 445 6995

Checkout the available boat and paddles

Shop Now

Kayaking events

Kayaking events

Not many kayaking events are held in Abu Dhabi, however you could join for a kayaking group at meet up

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Paddle boarding (SUP) in Abu Dhabi

Captain Tony’s offers guided tours and Stand-Up Paddle Boarding tours along the Abu Dhabi mangroves. In the past hydro marine were the providers of SUP, but now, Captain Tony has taken over.
Eywoa is the one who provides paddle boarding to visitors in Yas Island canal. You can choose to pass through any of the three paths depending on the time you are available.
The green path runs for 30 minutes, the blue 60 minutes, and the yellow path 120 minutes. When you book for the tour, you get a board paddle and a small dry bag.
To Book : www.eywoa.com

Kayaking events
Kayaking events
The Western Marine Sports Club (WMSC) is located in Dhafra and offers watersports like kayaking, water skiing, wakeboarding, jet skiing, sailing, paddle boarding, parasailing and many others.
Watercooled Watersports offers visitors courses in powerboating, wind surfing, sailing, kayaking and waterskiing. They also have activities like zap cat thrill rides, towed inflatables and fishing.

Jalboot watersports center has a stunning waterfront that offers both motorized and non-motorized activities including SUP yoga, wakeboarding and many others.
To Book : www.jalboot.ae

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