Dubai Water Canal

The basics

Extending 1.9 miles (3.2 kilometers)and flanked by pedestrian and cycle lanes on both sides, the Dubai Water Canal is ideal if you want to swap the city’s commotion and road traffic for the soothing sight and sound of the water.

Visit the canal independently or book a tour to experience it from land or water. Sail its length by private yacht, enjoy dinner and Dubai’s floodlit cityscapes on an evening dhow boat cruise, or celebrate a special occasion with a boat trip. Alternatively, discover the canal on a Dubai city tour, a self-guided walking foray, or a combo tour teaming a canal cruise with further sightseeing opportunities.

Things to know before you go

• The Dubai Water Canal will appeal to anyone seeking a quiet oasis in the city.

• The canal is free to visit and flanked by cafés, restaurants, shops, and other attractions.

• The canal is accessible for wheelchairs.

• You can cross the canal using footbridges, ferries, or water taxis.

• Restrooms, phone charging stations, and car parks dot the canalsides.

How to get there

The canal is accessible from numerous city-center locations. The Sheikh Zayed Road Bridge is a good starting point for exploring, as it features an elevator down to the canal and is easily reached by buses and taxis. The nearest metro station is Business Bay, which is served by the red line—the bridge is a 10-minute walk from the station. If driving, there’s ample visitor parking beneath the bridge.

When to get there

The canal is open 24/7, but is especially beautiful in the evening. Arrive late afternoon to skip the city’s worst heat and enjoy fantastic views of the sunset. As darkness falls, Dubai’s illuminated skyline lights up and you can catch the Canal Waterfall at the Sheikh Zayed Bridge—its rainbow-lit cascades operate from 8pm till 10pm daily.

Attractions around the Dubai Water Canal

While the Canal Waterfall usually steals the limelight, there’s plenty else to enjoy along the canal. Be sure to visit the five footbridges after dark as all command stunning views of glittering Downtown Dubai and the floodlit Burj Khalifa. Some of the best panoramas are from the Tolerance Bridge, instantly recognizable for its purple illuminated arch.