While Dubai has dozens of beaches to choose from, what’s rare to find is a private abode highlighting the beauty of the coastline coupled with a stylish ambiance, top-notch dining and à la carte facilities. RIVA Beach Club, Dubai’s new standalone beach concept, is a place to plan a serene escapade by the beach. Jetting out to the Palm Jumeirah myself, I found this mini-paradise to be charming and refined brief getaway from hectic city life.
Upon arrival I was greeted by friendly staff who showed me around the premises comprises of a stretch of private beach featuring more than 200 luxury sun loungers, a climate-controlled pool and charming al fresco restaurant with a terrace overlooking the waterfront. The surrounding decor boasts of white and blue finishings recalling the colours of the Greek Islands and French Riviera. I met with General Manager Simon Housecroft who explained the club’s concept as offering bespoke services which mirrors leading resorts found throughout the Mediterranean. I soon experienced such treatment myself.
I opted for a lounge chair right next to the beach where I was quickly provided with a gourmet lunch menu. I immediately decided on fresh coconut water which arrived in the coconut itself recalling the manner found on tropical beaches, a warm Goats’ Cheese Salad and a Marinated Mushroom and Zucchini Salad. Simple, healthy and clearly from entirely fresh produce, the meal was a light fix for an afternoon on the beach. Content and satisfied, quite a few hours passed within the serenity of RIVA’s delightful surroundings.
A perfect place for friends and family, if desired guests can come and enjoy the beach without paying the usual access cost. Instead, visitors simply pay a small fee to hire a personal sun lounger for the day and use all the facilities, including the beach, pool, steam rooms and, of course, complimentary underground parking. RIVA is friendly, charming and will prompt you to return many times.
RIVA Beach Club, The Palm Jumeirah, Shoreline Apartments, Building 8, +9714 4309466 www.riva-beach.com
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