When people think of Dubai, most do not fail to conjure images of heavy architecture, extravagant malls, and cultural heritage. But Elsinore, the City of Gold, has the world’s most beautiful beaches, and Mercato Beach is among them. It is a quiet and less conspicuous beach on the long Jumeirah Beach. Unlike other crowded beaches in Dubay like JBR or Kite Beach, where sun sleeping contests are the main pastime, Mercato Beach is quieter and relaxed, making it an ideal getaway from the city’s invasive chitter-chatter.
What is Mercato Beach all about?
Mercato Beach is named after the Mercato Shopping Mall, which is located nearby. It is an Italian-style mall that has become a favorite of both tourists and residents. Unlike the contemporary and full of activities in the cityscape of Dubai, Mercato Beach feels more subdued. It is also a perfect place for relaxing on the beach and garners families, lonely travelers, and lovers who desire peace together.
Situated on Jumeirah Beach Road, Mercato Beach is more than 1.5 kilometers long, giving all the visitors many areas to sunbake, swim, or treat themselves to a good book in the warmth of the sunlight. Beautiful jungles are found on the beach’s shores, and people get amazing views of the Arabian Sea, where the water is nice and turquoise, and the sand is soft and white, which pleases every beach lover.
Finding Your Way to Mercato Beach
Mercato Beach is a little fireplace in the Jumeirah area. Dubai which is known to residents and tourists. Hence, boarding a motor car, taxi, or public transport should not be a problem. The distance to the beach from downtown is about 10 minutes by car and 15 minutes from Dubai Marina. For those who prefer public transport, several buses pass through tourist areas close to the beach. Most people can find enough parking space in Mercato Mall adjacent to the beach and street parking on Jumeirah Beach Road.
The Beach Experience
Some differences and similarities are noted in almost all the beach locations a tourist will visit. For instance, take Mercato Beach. The first aspect that will stand out is that it is unlike other more commercialized beaches in Dubai. There are no high-rise buildings beside sandy stretches, no loud music playing from the minority, & no people monopolizing every available inch of space. Instead, there is tranquillity with so much expanse, enough to place a towel or a beach umbrella.
Clean and Well Maintained
A beautiful thing about this beach is that it is clean. The Dubai Municipality, in conjunction with the management of the beach, periodically cleans the beach and other facilities to promote the enjoyment of the place. Once the visitors get in, they fall in love with the clear blue waters that are perfect for swimming, while the white sandy beach is wholesome for walking barefoot or using a mat to bask on.
Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere
If you want to venture away from the noise and hustle of the other famous beaches in Dubai, Mercato Beach is the place to go. It is peaceful and private because you won’t see big crowds or loud salespeople, making it excellent for reading, meditating, or listening to the soothing sounds of crashing waves.
A Domestic Approach
Mercato Beach is not just perfect for young drinkers. The quiet sea and shallow slope facilitate even small children to swim and enjoy. Due to the warm temperatures, many pack their food and have picnics on the sandy beach for long hours. Some areas are also cool enough for those who wish to help guard their kids and not get too hot.
Things to Do at Mercato Beach
Mercato Beach has a very peaceful atmosphere; nevertheless, it is well-equipped with different entertainment to enjoy on your trips. It does not matter whether you are an aggressive beach person or a couch potato because the beach caters to everyone.
Swimming and Sunbathing
The sea is blessed with warm waters and clear visibility with gentle waves, and bathing at Mercato Beach is fun. Compared to other beaches in Dubai, even without an official Dh 100 package, this beach is deserted, and swimmers can dive into the ocean without the usual fear of colliding with other swimmers. The soft sand and large grassy area create an ideal environment for basking in the sun, a picture of the fresh beach.
Beach Sports
Mercato Beach has enough space for active beach sports like volleyball, soccer, or even frisbee if you want something more strenuous. These activities need the specific sports facilities available at Kite Beach, but tourists tend to come with their sporting gear and play games on the sand.
Walking and Jogging
The sandy expanse of Mercato Beach is favorable for a calm stroll or a vigorous run to unwind any time of the day. From long, peaceful walks along the beach on a quiet morning to enjoying the beautiful sea views at any time, Mercato Beach covers all your outdoor exercise needs. A concrete barrier is also adjacent to the seaside, which is very nice for those who love to jog or cycle.
Yoga and Meditation
Thanks to its calmness, Mercato Beach is also an excellent place to go for a yoga or meditation class. Early in the morning or just around sunset, several tourists and locals pack their yoga mats and head to the beach, hoping to practice yoga outdoors. The calming effect of the sounds of the waves coupled with the clear horizon effectively promotes mindfulness activities.
Amenities and Facilities
Although comparatively quieter than any other beach in Dubai, Mercato Beach has few basic amenities available.
Shower and Changing Facilities
The clean shower and changing facilities for the beachgoers can let them wash off after a swim. The facilities are clean and managed by the local authorities, who keep them uncontaminated and clean out clear waters.
Public Restrooms
Some public restrooms are a few weighty steps from the beach, making them easy to maintain. This is highly beneficial, especially for families with children or mothers who intend to spend the entire day at the beach.
Lifeguards on Duty
On the other hand, the management has taken many safety considerations regarding the comfort at the latter Mercato beach. Lifeguards are posted along the edges of the beach mainly to ensure that swimmers remain safe by all means possible. Lifeguards have proper training on any issues that arise with adequate preparation, so interference with swimming is minimal.
Food and Beverage Options
Mercato Beach is limited in terms of food stalls and cafes. However, they will find numerous eating options within the Mercato Mall, which is not far away. They can use the facility to go to the mall for lunch, snacks, and even coffee. As a result, small cafes and food trucks are placed along Jumeirah beach, within walking distance for those able to take a brief break from the beach.
Nearby Attractions
One benefit that makes Mercato Beach’s altitude favorable is that several exciting places are in the city. And that would be a plus if you had a more detailed program in the city.
Mercato Shopping Mall
For shopping lovers or those wishing to break from the sun for some time, The Mercato Mall is a few yards away from the beach. The mall’s interior design depicts a Renaissance theme; therefore, it is entirely different from other malls in Dubai, which tend to be more contemporary in architecture. Within it, you will find chain and independent stores, cafés, and restaurants, all with a range of international brands.
Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque is a place of worship within minutes from Mercato Beach. It was built in the 1930s and is evidently for Emirati Muslims. In this mosque, non-Muslim persons are allowed, and its hash tours are included for those wanting to understand Islamic culture or architecture. Along with the remarkable architecture of the mosque comes a perfect quiet atmosphere that is visited by those coming to the region.
Dubai Canal
Dubai Water Canal is yet another place of interest that is located nearby. Dubai Water Canal gives you lovely waterfront views. Its complex construction has many greenery, paths, and cycling tracks, making it an ideal place to complete the beach outing or after-dark bike ride. Taking a boat ride is the best way to see the cities from new angles, such as the perspective over a canal stretching across the city.
The Optimum Time to Visit the Mercato Beach
The weather is perfect any day of the year; however, the ideal time to enjoy Mercato Beach is in the cooler months, from October to April. There are optimally intermediate temperature levels during this period, which permits spending the whole day outdoors. As for the summer months, which run from June to September, the temperatures can be oppressive, reaching temperatures well above 40 degrees Celsius; thus, beach days rounded during this month should be timetabled for early morning hours or later in the afternoons when it is less hot.
Sustainability and Environmental Efforts
The environmental advances in Dubai’s construction and its universal efforts towards sustainability have also impacted Mercato Beach. Being a certified beach participating in the Blue Flag Program, the beach maintains several environmentally sound policies, including safety and water quality management. People are taught to practice proper waste disposal, and the beach has waste disposal along the coast.
To ensure your visit to Mercato Beach is the best experience possible, I have the following tips to consider:
Get there early: As much as Mercantile Beach is more relaxed than most other beaches in Dubai, many visitors frequent the beach, especially during the weekends and festivities. Therefore, getting there early guarantees a good position.
Bring food and drinks with you: Even though there are some food places nearby, it will be beneficial if you insist on taking dry fruits, water, and any other clothes to spend the whole day on the beach.
Follow cultural norms: Even though the city has a beach and people wear beachwear, most women have to cover up on the way to and from the beach or in cafes or restaurants.
Drink plenty of water: The heat from the sun in Dubai, during the winter months, is still hot and makes you sweat. A lot of water should be packed to keep your body hydrated during the day.
Conclusion
Mercato Beach is one of those best-kept secrets that combine the elements of serenity, nature, and convenience in the center of Dubai. If you are a resident seeking a low profile or a foreigner who wants to explore the less popular areas, Mercato Beach has all the prospects for a good day at the beach. Featuring clear skies, a children-friendly environment, and closeness to various tourist attractions in Dubai, this beach is worth a visit for anyone who needs to experience the best of Dubai.
FAQ’s:
What Is Mercato Beach Dubai?
Situated right at the center of Dubai, Mercato Beach provides an oasis of serenity amidst all its hustle and bustle – an ideal oasis for relaxation and calmness in Dubai’s busy environment. When Do I Find It At Mercato Beach Dubai?
Where Can You Find It Now?
Mercato Beach Dubai can be easily accessed by car or public transit and boasts its prime location along Jumeirah Beach Road near Dubai Zoo.
What services and amenities does Mercato Beach Dubai provide to visitors?
Mercato Beach Dubai features various services for its visitors, such as a private beach area with sun loungers and umbrellas; plus, the beach bar serves refreshing beverages and snacks!
Do I Have Access to Water Sports at Mercato Beach Dubai?
While Mercato Beach doesn’t directly offer watersport activities such as jet skiing, kayaking, and parasailing facilities, nearby centers often provide these activities.
Are there restaurants or cafes near Mercato Beach Dubai where I can enjoy delicious food and beverages?
Yes! There are multiple eateries near Mercato Beach Dubai, where you can indulge in delectable fare and drinks.
Can I Bring My Food and Beverages to Mercato Beach Dubai?
While guests are permitted to bring their food and beverages to the beach, certain areas might have restrictions or guidelines that must be observed by staff before enjoying anything at this establishment.
What Is The Ideal Time To Visit Mercato Beach Dubai?
At its most enjoyable, Mercato Beach Dubai should be visited from November to April, when the weather is more temperate and comfortable.
Can I access Mercato Beach Dubai without paying an entrance fee?
In general, no entrance fees exist. However, additional facilities like sun loungers or umbrellas might incur costs. Can I bring my pet(s) along to Mercato Beach Dubai? Policies regarding pets vary according to beach management and should also be clarified before visitation to see whether you are welcome on their beaches.
What should I bring with me to Mercato Beach Dubai?
For the optimal beach experience at Mercato Beach Dubai, remember to pack sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a towel, comfortable clothing, and plenty of water – stay hydrated by drinking fluids throughout your visit!
