Go kiting in the UAE's capital
While kitesurfing in Abu Dhabi might not always make the top of the list, it’s worth considering. And if you've just moved there, don't worry you'll get plenty of great sessions in! Compared to Dubai, Abu Dhabi’s kitesurfing spots are generally less busy, thanks to a smaller kitesurfing community. This means you can enjoy a more relaxed and uncrowded experience.
The top kite spot in Abu Dhabi is Yas Island. However, there are some incredible hidden gems further afield. Spots like Al Mirfa and Ruwais, located about 2 hours away by car towards the Saudi border, are virtually untouched and offer some of the best kitesurfing conditions in the country.
One of Abu Dhabi’s biggest advantages is its temperature. You’ll hardly need a wetsuit throughout the year, except maybe a shorty during the winter on particularly windy days.
Abu Dhabi's kite season
Abu Dhabi’s primary wind is a thermal wind, generated by the temperature difference between the desert and the sea. Winds blow onshore during the day and turn offshore at night until early morning.
The best time to kitesurf in Abu Dhabi is from November to March. During this period, temperatures range from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), with water temperatures between 22°C to 25°C (72°F to 77°F). Expect winds of 8 to 12 knots on most days (so bring your foil if you have one and you’re guaranteed to kite a lot), with around 30 days per year offering stronger winds, particularly when the Shamal blows. Wind conditions in Abu Dhabi are similar to those in Dubai but generally 1 to 3 knots stronger.
While kitesurfing is possible in summer, temperatures often exceed 40°C (104°F) with very warm water. Thermal winds can still provide good conditions, but you’ve got to face the heat!
Kite spots in Abu Dhabi
5 Spots
© Wake Up Adventures
Al Ruwais, Shipwreck Beach
Just two and a half hours from Abu Dhabi, this secluded kitesurfing paradise offers constant winds, flat water, and plenty of space—perfect for learning and practicing. It's worth the drive, so pack your tents and BBQ, camp on the beach for the weekend, and enjoy the ride!
Beginner to Advanced
Sea
Freeride, Freestyle
© Ruler Representative Court
Al Mirfa, Al Mughira Beach
Located 150 km from Abu Dhabi, Al Mughira Beach is perfect for kitesurfing with its flat, shallow waters and spacious beach. Known for the annual Al Dhafra Watersports Festival, it remains a hidden gem that's seldom crowded. We highly recommend a weekend trip with camping on the beach.
Beginner to Advanced
Sea
Freeride, Freestyle
Map of Abu Dhabi's kite spots
Other kitesurf spots in United Arab Emirates
3 Spots
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
November to March
2 Spots
Umm Al Quwain, United Arab Emirates
November to March