When the Burj Al Arab was first built, it was missing one thing: a beach. Its location on a man-made island meant there was no space for pools and sunbathing.
So, they built one.
The Terrace is one of the most incredible feats of engineering in Dubai. It’s a 10,000-square-meter luxury deck that was built in Finland, split into eight pieces, and shipped to Dubai. It now juts out 100 meters over the Arabian Gulf, giving the hotel its own private beach and pool club.
As a Dubai expert, I’ve spent many afternoons here. Let me give you a full guide to this exclusive slice of paradise.
The Pools: Freshwater and Saltwater
The Terrace isn’t just one pool. It’s a massive area with two main pools, and they are very different.
- The Freshwater Pool: This is a huge, family-friendly pool. It’s a “walk-in” pool, meaning it’s sloped like a beach. It has a shaded swim-up bar in the middle and is perfect for a casual dip.
- The Saltwater Infinity Pool: This is the one you’ve seen in photos. It’s an adults-only (21+) infinity pool that blends perfectly with the sea. The water is saltwater and temperature-controlled. Floating in this pool and looking back at the “sail” of the Burj Al Arab is a core Dubai experience.
SAL Restaurant & Bar
SAL is the chic, stylish restaurant located on The Terrace. It’s not just a “pool bar”; it’s a high-end beach club and dining destination.
- The Vibe: Think South of France or Mykonos. It’s very cool, with a white-and-blue decor and a live DJ.
- The Food: The menu is light, modern European, with a focus on fresh seafood, salads, and grilled fish.
- The Price: It is expensive. A light lunch for two with a couple of drinks will easily cost $300 – $400.
The Cabanas: Your Private Oasis
This is where The Terrace becomes truly luxurious. You can rent a private cabana for the day. There are 32 cabanas, but they come in two types.
- Standard Luxury Cabanas (32 Cabanas) These are not simple tents. They are 8-square-meter mini-suites with:
- Air-conditioning
- A plush daybed
- A minibar
- A TV
- A coffee machine
- A private butler
2025 Price: Expect to pay AED 1,500 – 2,500 ($410 – $680 USD) per day.
- The Royal Cabanas (8 Cabanas) These are for VIPs. They are much larger (75 sq. meters) and include:
- A private, air-conditioned indoor lounge
- A separate dining area
- A full bathroom with a shower
- A private veranda
2025 Price: These start around AED 5,000+ ($1,360+ USD) per day. This is the perfect option for a group that wants total privacy, perhaps after a bespoke shopping tour at the mall.
How to Get Access (The Big Question)
So, how do you get onto this incredible deck?
Option 1: Be a Hotel Guest (The Easy Way) Access to The Terrace and both pools is 100% free for all guests staying at the Burj Al Arab. This is a major perk of the high suite price.
If you are thinking about staying, you can see all the room options in our full Burj Al Arab Jumeirah suite price and booking guide.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah suite price and booking guide
Option 2: Book a Cabana (The “Day Pass” Way) This is the “secret” way in for non-guests. You can call the hotel and book a cabana for the day. This gives you:
- Full access to The Terrace and both pools.
- Your private cabana and butler service.
- A “day pass” to the Burj Al Arab, letting you past the security bridge.
This is a very popular option for high-net-worth individuals who may be staying on a private yacht charter nearby but want to use the hotel’s facilities.
Option 3: Book Lunch at SAL You can also get access by making a reservation at SAL restaurant. This will get you onto The Terrace to eat, but it does not give you access to the pools or sun loungers. You are restricted to the restaurant area.
Is The Terrace Worth It?
Absolutely. It solved the hotel’s only problem (no beach) and turned it into one of its greatest strengths. It’s a quiet, ultra-luxury space that never feels crowded.
If you are not a hotel guest, booking a Standard Cabana for $500 is the best “day pass” in Dubai. It lets you experience the full 7-star service for a fraction of the cost of a suite.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Can I use the Burj Al Arab pool with a “day pass”?
Yes, but only if you book a “cabana.” This is the official way to get a pool day pass. A simple restaurant reservation at SAL does not include pool access. - Is The Terrace at Burj Al Arab family-friendly?
Yes. The large freshwater pool is perfect for families. The Saltwater Infinity Pool is adults-only (21+), giving a good balance for all guests. - What is the dress code for The Terrace?
For the pool areas, it’s “resort chic.” High-end swimwear is standard. For SAL restaurant, the dress code is “beach chic.” You can wear stylish shorts or a kaftan, but you must wear a top and shoes (no bare chests).
