Things to do at Bluewaters Island, Dubai (2026 guide)

Updated October 2026. Venues and access checked against the official Bluewaters website, RTA project information and 2026 news reports. Ain Dubai has had long closures in recent years.

Bluewaters is a man-made island just off JBR beach, developed by Meraas and opened in 2018. It packs waterfront restaurants, a resort hotel, homes and the giant Ain Dubai wheel into a walkable space. Here are the best things to do at Bluewaters Island in 2026, plus what you need to know before you go.

How do I get to Bluewaters Island?

• On foot: a pedestrian bridge links the island to JBR, so you can walk over from The Beach and The Walk.
• By car or taxi: a road bridge connects Bluewaters to Sheikh Zayed Road near the JBR interchange. The island has visitor parking.
• By public transport: take the Dubai Metro or Tram to the JBR and Dubai Marina area, then walk or take a short taxi ride.

1. Walk the waterfront promenade

The simplest thing to do on Bluewaters is also one of the best. The promenade circles the island and looks back across the water at the JBR towers and the Dubai Marina skyline. It is flat, pedestrian-friendly and pleasant from October to April, especially in the late afternoon and early evening. Start at the JBR bridge and loop around the island at your own pace.

2. Eat at a waterfront restaurant

Dining is the main draw on Bluewaters. Restaurants currently promoted by the island include:

• Alici: Italian seafood inspired by the Amalfi Coast.
• Besar: Spanish and Arabic dishes, with live flamenco and Latin nights.
• MIYA Dubai: a Greek restaurant inspired by Mykonos.
• The Pods: pan-Asian dining in private, air-conditioned pods.
• Grand ZOR: Uzbek cooking with Mediterranean and Eastern European influences, plus a lounge and karaoke room.
• SHI: Chinese cuisine with Japanese sushi and a shisha lounge.

Most venues have terraces facing the water. Restaurants change often, so check the official Bluewaters website for the current line-up and book ahead for weekend evenings.

3. See Ain Dubai

Ain Dubai is the world’s tallest observation wheel, with a ride that reaches about 250 metres and capsules that carry up to 1,400 passengers in total. It reopened in December 2024 after a two-year closure, but it has been temporarily closed since March 2026, and no reopening date had been announced when this guide was updated.

Even when the wheel is not turning, the structure is the island’s landmark and makes a striking backdrop, particularly when it is lit up at night. Check Ain Dubai’s official channels before planning a ride.

4. Stay at Banyan Tree Dubai

Banyan Tree Dubai at Bluewaters occupies part of the former Caesars Palace complex, which was rebranded after Caesars left Bluewaters at the end of 2023. It has a private beach, pools and a Banyan Tree spa, and it suits couples and families who want a beach resort within walking distance of JBR and Dubai Marina.

5. Watch the sunset over the Gulf

Bluewaters faces west across open water, so it is one of the best spots in the area for sunset. Grab a terrace table early, or walk to the island’s seaward side. On cooler evenings the promenade gets busy with families and photographers.

6. Combine it with JBR and Dubai Marina

Bluewaters works best as part of a longer outing. Walk back across the bridge to JBR beach, The Beach and The Walk for shopping and more restaurants, then continue to the Dubai Marina promenade. On a full day you can cover all three on foot.

Tips for visiting Bluewaters

• Best time to visit: late afternoon to evening between October and April.
• Weekends: the island gets busy on Friday and Saturday nights, so book restaurants ahead.
• Dress: smart casual for most restaurants. Swimwear belongs on the beach and at pools only.

Can you live on Bluewaters Island?

Yes. Bluewaters has a residential district of low-rise apartment buildings and townhouses. It is a freehold area, so expats can buy as well as rent. To see what is available nearby, browse homes for rent or properties for sale.

Frequently asked questions

Is Ain Dubai open?

Ain Dubai has had long closures in recent years, so check its official website or social channels to confirm it is operating before you plan a visit. Check its official channels before you visit.

Can you walk to Bluewaters from JBR?

Yes. A pedestrian bridge connects JBR to Bluewaters Island.

Is Bluewaters Island free to visit?

Yes. There is no charge to enter the island or walk the promenade. You only pay for food, attractions and any parking charges.

Which hotel is on Bluewaters Island?

Banyan Tree Dubai at Bluewaters is the island’s best-known resort hotel. It occupies part of the former Caesars Palace complex.

What is the best time to visit Bluewaters?

Late afternoon to evening between October and April, when you can walk the promenade in comfort and watch the sunset.