As the sun shines brightly over Dubai, the city continues to evolve, presenting new and exciting experiences for both residents and visitors alike. One of the most anticipated transformations is the emergence of J1 Beach, a luxurious new beach resort that promises to be a vibrant hub for leisure and gastronomy. Located along the picturesque coastline, J1 Beach is set to provide a unique blend of high-end dining, exclusive beachside experiences, and family-friendly entertainment.
This new destination is the long-awaited transformation of the beloved La Mer South, transitioning into a hub that embodies elegance and sophistication. The first venues have already opened their doors, inviting guests to indulge in a world of culinary delights and social gatherings.
The grand unveiling of J1 Beach will occur in phases, with the initial wave of venues welcoming guests from October 2024. As anticipation builds, here’s a closer look at the 13 exciting new concepts set to redefine Dubai’s beach scene.
Now Open
Gigi Rigolatto
As part of the lifestyle group Ennismore, Gigi Rigolatto is a collaboration with Paris Society, bringing a slice of St Tropez to Dubai. Set amidst a lush, landscaped garden, this beach club features a delightful pool area, a stylish Bellini bar, and a boutique. Gigi Rigolatto promises a chic, French Riviera-inspired environment perfect for leisurely days spent soaking up the sun. Families will also appreciate the famous Gigi Circus kids club, making it a prime destination for all ages.
Gigi Rigolatto, J1 Beach, pool open from 10am to sunset; restaurant from 12pm to 6pm and 8pm to 1am. @gigi_beach_dubai
Opening October
Almayass by the Sea
Transporting guests to 1966 Beirut, this family-run Armenian-Lebanese restaurant offers a seafood menu brimming with mezze-style dishes, all crafted from fresh ingredients that celebrate a fusion of flavours. Following its successful launch in Abu Dhabi, where it was awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand, Almayass by the Sea will be the brand’s second location in the UAE.
Almayass by the Sea, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, opening this month. @almayass_dubai
Bâoli
Hailing from the stylish shores of Cannes, Bâoli is set to make its Dubai debut this month. Known for its exquisite cuisine and an A-list clientele, this venue will bring a taste of the French Riviera to the emirate. By day, guests can unwind in a serene atmosphere ideal for relaxation, while the evenings will transform into a vibrant social scene complete with sundowners at one of the multiple bars or VIP lounges. Dining options include an indoor restaurant adorned with lush tropical décor or an airy outdoor terrace overlooking the Arabian Gulf, with a menu that fuses French and Mediterranean flavours with East Asian culinary techniques.
Bâoli, J1 Beach, La Mer, opening this month. @baoli.dubai
Chouchou
A chic French beach house from the newly established With Love hospitality group, Chouchou aims to infuse the Jumeirah 1 beachfront with St Tropez glamour. Spanning two floors, this luxurious venue will feature a pool and beach area, a salon, restaurant, and multiple bars. As the only private members’ club at J1 Beach, most areas will be reserved for members; however, the restaurant will accept reservations from the public.
Chouchou, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, daily from 9am to 2am, opening this month. chouchoudxb.com
La Baia by the Beach
Inspired by the Amalfi Coast, La Baia promises to offer a charming taste of Italy right on the shores of Jumeirah. With an array of Southern Italian flavours, colourful décor, and live performances that evoke the essence of summer by the Italian coast, this beach club will be a sensory delight. Guests can enjoy dining at the restaurant or lounging by the pool, ensuring it becomes a glamorous social hub when it opens.
La Baia by the Beach, J1 Beach, La Mer, opening this month. @labaia.dubai
Ninive Beach
Ninive Beach is a seaside extension of RIKAS’s opulent Middle Eastern concept, previously found at Jumeirah Emirates Towers and Bab Al Shams Desert Resort. This new location will be the first festive Middle Eastern beach club in Dubai, featuring a restaurant, bar, and pool, as well as beach loungers for ultimate relaxation.
Ninive Beach, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, opening this month. @ninivebeach
Opening November Onwards
African Queen
The renowned African Queen restaurant is set to open its first location outside Europe at J1 Beach. Inspired by a blend of French culture and African flavours, guests can look forward to Chef Paludetto’s signature Mediterranean dishes, including wood-fired truffle pizza and classic niçoise with tuna, accompanied by exotic cocktails in a relaxed atmosphere.
African Queen, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, opening November. @africanqueen_dubai
Gitano
Originating in Tulum, Gitano embodies a bohemian spirit, designed for the free-spirited at heart. With rustic-luxe aesthetics, the Dubai outpost will feature a tropical setting adorned with verdant plants and twinkling disco balls. The menu will showcase signature mezcal cocktails and a modern Mexican dining experience, adding a touch of whimsy to J1 Beach.
Gitano, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, opening November. @gitano.dubai
INÁ
Fundamental Hospitality will introduce INÁ, their first West African cuisine restaurant, at J1 Beach. Meaning ‘fire’ in Nigerian Yoruba, INÁ will offer an immersive dining experience exclusively for dinner, focusing on African-inspired, open-fire cooking in a warm and inviting space.
INÁ, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, opening November.
Kaimana Beach
For top-notch food and cocktails by the sea, Kaimana Beach will serve a menu inspired by tropical Asian and Polynesian flavours, alongside inventive cocktails. Guests can look forward to a fully immersive beachfront experience that encapsulates the spirit of the ocean.
Kaimana Beach, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, opening November. @kaimanabeachdubai
LÚNICO
Bringing a dash of Spanish flair, Lúnico will open in November as a fine dining restaurant and late-night bar, inspired by the four phases of the moon. Guests can expect haute cuisine paired with masterfully crafted cocktails in a sleek, sophisticated setting.
LUNICO, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, opening November. @lunico_ae
Sakhalin
Sakhalin will establish its third outpost at J1 Beach, having gained acclaim as a Michelin-starred restaurant from Moscow. Known for its unique blend of Mediterranean and Asian recipes, the Dubai location will serve as both an upscale restaurant and a stylish beach club, inviting guests to enjoy the culinary creations of star chef Vladimir Mukhin.
Sakhalin, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, opening November. @sakhalin.dubai
Sirene Beach by Gaia
Renowned for bringing upscale Greek cuisine to Dubai, Gaia is expanding its horizons with the launch of Sirene Beach by Gaia in November. Covering an expansive 9,000 square metres, the venue will feature two restaurants, approximately 400 sun loungers distributed across the pool and beach, and a stunning seaside lounge, creating an ideal setting for sun-soaked gatherings, stunning sundowners, and exquisite dinners.
Sirene Beach, J1 Beach, Jumeirah 1, opening November. @sirenebygaia
A New Chapter in Dubai’s Beach Club Scene
With J1 Beach transforming the former La Mer site into a world-class destination, Dubai’s beach club scene is set for an exciting evolution. These new venues bring international flavours, stunning views, and varied entertainment, creating a hub where visitors can indulge in Dubai’s renowned luxury lifestyle along its pristine coastline.
Whether you’re drawn by African Queen’s culinary artistry, the Italian charm of La Baia, or the exclusive vibe of Chouchou, J1 Beach is shaping up to be Dubai’s most vibrant new beach attraction. Be sure to visit and experience Dubai’s beach club renaissance as each of these incredible venues opens its doors.
