UAE's Saadiyat Beach Joins World's 50 Best Beaches for 2025
Looking for your next summer beach getaway? A fresh international ranking has revealed the world's top 50 beaches for 2025—and beaches from both the UAE and the Philippines have landed well-deserved spots.
The list, compiled by The World's 50 Best Beaches, was based on input from over 1,000 global travel experts. Rankings were determined by criteria like natural beauty, water clarity, unique features, wildlife, ease of access, and how often the beach offers ideal weather conditions.
No. 1 Goes to Italy's Cala Goloritzé
Taking the top spot this year is Cala Goloritzé in Sardinia, Italy. Known for its steep limestone cliffs and crystal-clear waters, the beach was praised not just for its appearance, but for the emotional impact it leaves on visitors.
Judges noted that what makes Cala Goloritzé stand out isn't just one feature—it's the overall harmony of nature, seclusion, and sustainability. As a protected natural site, it represents a strong example of eco-tourism done right.
Saadiyat Beach, Abu Dhabi: A Win for UAE's Eco-Tourism
The UAE's Saadiyat Beach in Abu Dhabi earned a place on the list thanks to its 8-kilometer stretch of white sand and dedication to preserving marine life. Just minutes away from the capital's top resorts and cultural landmarks, the beach is part of the Saadiyat Marine National Park, a 59 km² eco-reserve.
This protected area is home to endangered Hawksbill sea turtles, bottlenose dolphins, and other native species, helping the beach stand out not only for its views but also for its environmental commitment.
The Philippines Also Makes a Splash
Though not detailed in the original report summary, one beach from the Philippines also made it to the top 50—highlighting the country's continued presence on the global beach tourism map. With hundreds of islands and world-famous coastlines, the Philippines continues to be a favorite for travelers seeking scenic shorelines and rich marine biodiversity.
Read More: 10 Beach Destinations in the Philippines for Digital Nomads
Global Travel Experts Weigh In
According to the editors behind the ranking, these beaches weren't just chosen for Instagram-worthy looks. Each spot was reviewed for how consistently it delivers great experiences, its conservation efforts, and how it reflects the spirit of the destination.
So whether you're planning a luxury escape in the UAE or a tropical adventure in Southeast Asia, this year's beach list offers plenty of reasons to pack a swimsuit and go.
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Khaleej Times
35 minutes ago
- Khaleej Times
‘I feel lighter': UAE pilgrims on Hajj say shaving head is about 'shedding arrogance'
In Mina, surrounded by thousands of pilgrims and resting after a long day of spiritual rituals, Jassim Al Khatib from Dubai sat on a barber's chair shaving his head, speaking to his younger brother over a video call. 'I did it,' Jassim told his brother, running his hand over his completely shaved head. 'It's all gone. I feel lighter, like something heavy has been lifted from within.' Jassim is among the thousands of UAE residents who are currently performing Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam. With the major rites completed, including standing at Arafat and the symbolic stoning of the devil at Jamarat, Jassim had just fulfilled one of the final acts of the pilgrimage — shaving his head, which is called Halq in Arabic. 'More than just hair' Speaking to Khaleej Times over the phone, Jassim remembered the moment he completed the shaving ritual. 'When the barber passed the blade over my head, I closed my eyes and just thought about everything I wanted to leave behind — my sins, my ego, my past mistakes. This isn't just about removing hair. It's about shedding arrogance and walking into a new life.' According to Islamic tradition, shaving the head after Hajj is a powerful symbol of humility, purification, and renewal. Pilgrims believe it marks the end of a transformative journey — a reset of both body and soul. 'I feel reborn' Sohail Siddiqui, a 40-year-old Indian expat from Ajman, also underwent Halq shortly after completing the stoning ritual in Mina. Texting his wife, through a voice note, due to poor network coverage, he broke the news. 'I sent her a voice note saying I just got my head shaved and I am leaving the state of Ihram,' said Siddiqui. His wife replied with a duaa, along with a voice message from their two daughters praying for his safe return. Sohail's group is expected to return to the UAE on June 11, after performing Tawaf al-Wada, the farewell circumambulation around the Holy Kaaba. 'Even though I haven't stepped into my home yet, I feel like I am returning as a better human, a better husband, and hopefully a better Muslim,' he said. For pilgrims, the act of shaving the head is a deeply personal and emotional moment. 'Millions of people surround you, yet you feel very close to God,' said Jassim. 'And in that moment, when you let go of your hair, your pride, your appearance, you are just a servant of Allah.' Significance of shaving the head Shaving the head during Hajj is a deeply spiritual act rooted in obedience and humility, said Sheikh Ayaz Housee, imam at the Next Generation School and khateeb at Al Manar Islamic Centre in Dubai. 'It is a command from Allah performed purely out of submission,' he said. The ritual symbolises purification, as pilgrims shed their hair, they symbolically shed sins, starting afresh. It also serves as a powerful expression of humility, with hair often seen as a symbol of pride and beauty. 'By removing it, the pilgrim humbles himself before Allah, abandoning vanity,' added Sheikh Ayaz. He further said that this ritual is emulating Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who also shaved his head during Hajj. Joining millions of others in this act, pilgrims reinforce unity, equality, and the brotherhood of Islam.
Cosmopolitan ME
42 minutes ago
- Cosmopolitan ME
Eid Al-Adha staycations worth packing a cute bag for
Eid Al-Adha is almost here, and if you're not in the mood to hop on a plane, you're not missing out. The UAE's got all the vibes – from luxe resorts to hidden desert gems and they're all just a car ride away. Whether you're tryna live your best soft life by the pool, book a spa day and vanish, or plan something cute with your people, there's a staycay that'll match your energy. So cancel the packing stress and keep it local, here's your guide to the coolest spots to chill, celebrate, and reset this Eid. Palazzo Versace Dubai The deal: Book your Eid staycation and unlock a luxe escape at Palazzo Versace Dubai complete with daily breakfast at Giardino, curated welcome treats, and elevated extras to make your stay unforgettable. Enjoy 20% off dining, an AED 150 spa voucher to unwind in style, and much more. The best part? Guests who stay a minimum of two nights will receive a return flight ticket, gifted at checkout, your ticket to wherever's next. 🌍✨ Price: From Dhs1,180. For reservations, click here Banyan Tree Dubai The deal: Book your Eid escape and get 20% off best available rates, early check-in and late check-out for added flexibility. It doesn't stop there enjoy daily breakfast and 20% savings on dining (excluding in-room dining) and spa treatments, perfect for quiet moments of relaxation amidst joyful celebrations. Price: From Dhs1,800. For reservations, click here Bab Al Shams Desert Resort The deal: Unwind in desert luxury with 25% off rooms and suites or 20% off if you're going all-in with a villa stay at Bab Al Shams. You'll get daily breakfast, AED 250 resort credit to spend on spa or leisure, and 30% off food and drinks across the resort. Total chill with a side of sand dune magic. Price: From Dhs1,200. For reservations, click here Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi The deal: Book your Eid escape and get 20% off a luxe half-board stay at Rixos Marina Abu Dhabi – complete with Yas Park access, a festive Eid brunch at Terra Mare, and non-stop fun for the little ones with a full kids' entertainment schedule. Beachside chills meet Yas Island thrills all wrapped up in five-star style. Valid stay dates: June 6th – 10th 2025. Price: From Dhs2,335. For reservations, click here W Dubai – The Palm The deal: Book your stay and get a free upgrade to a Fabulous Room with sea views, daily brekkie at LIV, and Dhs100 credit per night to spend on iconic spots like Akira Back, SoBe, and Aether. Valid stay dates: June 1st – 10th 2025. Price: From Dhs765. For reservations, click here Address Beach Resort – Dubai The deal: Address Beach Resort is dropping a 72-hour flash sale from May 29th to 31st – think up to 40% off stays. Travel anytime from late May through September, and lock in that Eid stay at one of Dubai's most iconic beachside spots.. Price: From Dhs1,107. For reservations, click here Four Seasons Resorts – Dubai The deal: UAE nationals and residents get access to exclusive perks with the Resident's Key – think special rates on rooms and suites, daily breakfast, and more hidden privileges along the way. Price: From Dhs1,332. For reservations, at the Jumeirah location click here or DIFC click here. JA Resorts & Hotels The deal: Book a two-night stay between June 4th – June 14th and score a third night free, plus 20% off dining, spa treatments, and curated experiences. It's the upgrade your long weekend deserves Price: JA Palm Tree Court from Dhs822, JA Beach Hotel from Dhs440. For reservations, at JA Palm Tree Court click here or JA Beach Hotel click here. The H Dubai The deal: Celebrate Eid with 25% off room rates, a brunch for two at Eat & Meat on Saturday, June 7th, a Dhs100 spa voucher, and free dining for kids under 12. Luxe perks, sorted. Price: From Dhs405. For reservations, click here. In need of gift ideas for Eid? This jewellery brand Basliq should deffo be on your radar.
The National
2 hours ago
- The National
Eid greeting stamp issued to visitors arriving in Dubai
Visitors arriving in Dubai during the Eid Al Adha holiday are being greeted by a special welcome stamp bearing the phrase "Eid in Dubai". The motif features a unique design created by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Dubai Media Office. For public and private sector workers in the UAE, Eid Al Adha this year is marked by a long weekend. Employees have been granted leave from Thursday June 5 to Sunday June 8, with work resuming on Monday June 9. Public and private sector staff in the Emirates are typically allocated the same number of public holidays each year. What is Eid Al Adha? Eid Al Adha – which means 'festival of the sacrifice' – is the latter of the two Eid holidays celebrated across the Arab world, coming after Eid Al Fitr. Eid Al Adha commemorates how the Prophet Ibrahim was asked by God in a dream to sacrifice his son, Ismail, as a test of his faith. As with other religious holidays in the Emirates, it is a time for friends and family to gather, often over meals, and reflect on their lives and faith. Eid around the world in pictures
