Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Beach ranked among world’s best

Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Beach has been named among the world’s best beaches, placing 19th in the 2026 World’s 50 Best Beaches ranking. It was one of only two Middle East destinations to feature on the list, alongside Detwah Lagoon on Yemen’s Socotra Island.

The annual ranking was compiled from votes cast by more than 1,000 travel professionals, including journalists, content creators and industry experts. Beaches were assessed on factors including natural surroundings, wildlife, water quality and overall visitor experience.

The 2026 ranking was topped by Entalula Beach in the Philippines, followed by Fteri Beach in Greece and Wharton Beach in Australia.

RELATED:

Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi named top global theme park

Abu Dhabi landmark joins World’s Most Beautiful Museums list

Dubai’s Burj Khalifa ranked world’s most Instagrammable landmark

Located on Saadiyat Island, the beach forms part of a protected coastal environment home to hawksbill turtles and bottlenose dolphins. The destination combines public beaches, beach clubs and luxury resorts alongside attractions such as Louvre Abu Dhabi, Zayed National Museum and the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.

The recognition adds to a growing list of international accolades for Abu Dhabi’s tourism and cultural attractions. Zayed National Museum was recently featured in the 2026 Prix Versailles selection of the World’s Most Beautiful Museums, becoming the only institution from the Gulf to feature on the annual list unveiled at Unesco headquarters in Paris.

Abu Dhabi’s leisure offering has also attracted international recognition. In May 2026, Warner Bros World Yas Island received the 2026 Liseberg Applause Award, becoming the first theme park in the Middle East to win the industry honour.

For more information, visit www.worlds50beaches.com