Dreaming of a Dubai beach holiday?

In Dubai, you can climb the world's tallest building one minute and sip fresh juices on the beach the next. Luxury daybeds and blissful beats are in abundance at Dubai's paid-entry beach clubs, where cityscapes and coastal views compete for attention. One such exclusive urban beach escape is the all-white Miami import Nikki Beach on Pearl Jumeira, that features 14,000sqm of luxury amenities. Meanwhile the glass-fronted infinity pool at Summersalt Beach Club, which sits on a private beach by Jumeirah Al Naseem, is the perfect spot to size up the skyline. Or, check out the private cabanas at Cove Beach Club at Bluewaters Island, which come equipped with a Jacuzzi.

Home to an array of five-star hotels and coastal resorts, Dubai definitely knows a thing or two about beachside luxury. Indulge in jaw-dropping views of the skyscrapers dotting the Dubai Marina skyline at the One&Only The Palm, located at Palm Jumeirah. Plan a stay at Jumeirah's Al Qasr for fine Arabian hospitality by the sea, or spend time at the luxury resort Jumeirah Al Naseem, which offers views of the Burj Al Arab from your hotel room. Both are just a dhow-ride away from Madinat Jumeirah's restaurants and shops too. Meanwhile, DoubleTree by Hilton in Jumeirah Beach Residences is an affordable choice, within walking distance to entertainment and shopping precincts like The Beach and The Walk at JBR.

In a city that thrives on retail, you are in for a real treat when shopping and beach life come together. Explore the outdoor shopping and entertainment district The Beach, opposite Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), then stroll along The Walk at JBR, or take the short walk over the bridge to Bluewaters Island – between all three you'll be spoilt for choice, with big brands such as Adventure HQ and Victoria's Secret and more, plus entertainment and dining options. Meanwhile in Jumeirah, Sunset Mall behind Sunset Beach has become the stomping ground for the city's most stylish shoppers.

For active travellers and watersports fans, Dubai is the ultimate holiday paradise. Ever wondered what Palm Jumeirah looks like from hundreds of metres in the air? Jump out of a plane over Skydive Dubai's Palm dropzone to get an aerial view of the city's golden coastline, manmade islands and turquoise seas. Alternatively, try a more leisurely stride at Kite Beach for more unique perspectives of the city. There are a host of outdoor adventures to try out in the city of all-year-round sunshine, including high-octane watersports like flyboarding and wakeboarding.