Dubai Jet Ski Tour: Burj Al Arab, Atlantis & Skyline Ride

Summary

Jet ski past Dubai’s icons with skyline views and salty spray

You’ll ride a jet ski along Dubai’s shoreline with a local guide leading you past landmarks like Burj Al Arab and Atlantis. Expect salty spray, skyline views, photo stops (they’ll use your phone), plus time to laugh at yourself or just soak up that open-water feeling.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is the slap of saltwater on my lips as we skimmed out from the marina — not in a bad way, just sharp and real, like a wake-up. Our guide (I think his name was Kareem?) grinned at us over his shoulder, one hand loose on the handlebars, totally at home. There was this mix of engine growl and seagulls overhead. The air smelled like sunscreen and warm concrete, but mostly ocean. I’d seen Dubai’s skyline from taxis before but never from this low down — skyscrapers all glassy and weirdly close, Burj Al Arab looking almost fake against the sky.

I fumbled with my phone when we stopped for photos near Palm Jumeirah — hands still shaking from the speed, honestly. Kareem offered to take a shot (“Don’t worry, I won’t drop it!”), and somehow managed to catch us with Atlantis behind, water dripping off my chin. The jet ski itself was newer than anything I’ve driven; throttle felt twitchy at first but you get used to it fast. There were other groups out there too, but it didn’t feel crowded — just this big blue space with everyone laughing at their own wobbles.

We looped around Burj Al Arab again before heading back. My arms were tired by then (no one tells you it’s a workout), but I didn’t really want to stop. The sun was starting to glare off the water so hard you had to squint. Someone else in our group tried shouting something over the engines — no idea what she said but we all laughed anyway. Back at the dock, I realized my cheeks hurt from grinning so much. Still think about that view sometimes, honestly.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jet ski tour of Dubai landmarks

• Start jet ski at Dubai Marina
• Cruise along Dubai Marina shoreline
• View Burj Al Arab from water
• See Palm Jumeirah from jet ski
• Visit Atlantis Hotel area
• Enjoy 360-degree city skyline views
• Return to starting point

Top questions

How long does the Dubai jet ski tour last?

The jet ski tour lasts 1 hour along Dubai’s shoreline.

Is there a guide during the jet ski tour?

Yes, a local guide leads the group throughout the tour.

What landmarks do you see on the Dubai jet ski tour?

You’ll pass Burj Al Arab, Atlantis Hotel on Palm Jumeirah, and see Dubai Marina’s skyline.

Are photos included in the tour?

Your guide will take photos using your phone camera at no extra cost.

Is safety equipment provided for the jet ski tour?

A life jacket is included for every participant.

Are there facilities for changing clothes after the tour?

You have access to showers and changing rooms after your ride.

Can infants or small children join this jet ski tour?

Infants can join if they sit on an adult’s lap; strollers are allowed nearby.

Is this Dubai jet ski experience suitable for all fitness levels?

The activity is suitable for all fitness levels except those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your hour-long ride includes a life jacket for safety, free photos taken by your guide using your own phone if you want them, plus access to showers and changing rooms when you’re done — there’s even a locker box for your stuff at no extra cost before you head back into town.