Dubai: Jet Ski Ride to Burj Khalifa & Burj Al Arab, Juice Stop

Summary

Jet ski from Jumeirah Harbour past Dubai’s icons with a local guide

You’ll feel Dubai’s wild energy as you skim past skyscrapers on a jet ski with a local guide, pausing for photos near Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab. Afterward, relax with cold juice back at Jumeirah Harbour. It’s salty air, quick laughter, and that odd moment where city meets sea—definitely something that stays with you.

What’s the experience like?

First thing I noticed was the salty air sticking to my skin as we waited at the Fishing Harbour in Jumeirah 2. There were a couple of fishermen hauling nets nearby — one of them gave us a nod as our guide, Kareem, handed over life jackets and ran through the basics. The jet ski felt heavier than I expected, but once we pushed off, everything just sort of clicked. Water slapped against my legs and the skyline opened up — Burj Khalifa looked almost unreal from out there, like it was floating above the city haze.

Kareem kept close on his own jet ski, sometimes calling out little facts about Dubai’s towers (I only caught half — wind in my ears). At one point he pointed toward Burj Al Arab and grinned, “Best angle for photos here!” He snapped a few pictures for us while we bobbed around, trying not to look too awkward. Honestly, I was more focused on not dropping my sunglasses into the Gulf. The ride itself is fast but there’s this weird calm when you stop for a second — just engine ticking down and seagulls somewhere behind you.

I picked the 30-minute option (you can go longer if you want), which felt just right for me. By the time we got back to shore my hands were buzzing from gripping the handles so tight. They had bottled water ready and poured us fresh juice — cold and sweet after all that saltwater spray. It wasn’t fancy but tasted perfect right then. If you’re thinking about a jet ski ride to Burj Khalifa or Burj Al Arab from Dubai’s coast, don’t overthink it; just bring your ID and maybe goggles if you’ve got sensitive eyes. Still laugh remembering how Kareem tried to teach me some Arabic words for “waves” — failed miserably.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jet ski ride and juice refreshment

• Meet guide at Fishing Harbour
• Escort to Jet Ski station
• Enjoy 10-minute free jet ski ride
• Choose 30 or 60-minute ride option
• Ride to see Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab
• Relax with fresh juice
• Return to starting point

Top questions

Where does the Dubai jet ski tour start?

The tour starts at Fishing Harbour in Jumeirah 2, Dubai.

How long is the jet ski ride?

You can choose between a 30-minute or 60-minute ride option.

Is there a guide during the jet ski tour?

Yes, an escort accompanies your ride for safety and to take photos.

What do I need to bring for the tour?

Bring your Emirates ID if you live in UAE or your passport if visiting. Goggles are also recommended.

Are lockers provided for personal belongings?

Yes, free lockers are available at the starting point for your belongings.

Is hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is included; you need to arrive at the harbor yourself.

Is there an age limit for driving the jet ski?

You must be at least 16 years old to drive; minimum age to join is 6 years old.

What happens after the ride?

You’ll get bottled water and fresh juice before returning your life jacket and collecting your ID.

What’s included

Your day includes use of a Yamaha FX WaveRunner jet ski with safety life jacket, an escort who takes photos during your ride along Dubai’s coastline past landmarks like Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab, free locker storage for your things while out on the water, bottled water throughout, plus a glass of fresh juice when you return to shore before heading back out into Dubai’s buzz.