It pays to be an early riser, as proven by these memorable dawn activities in Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts across the globe.

Watch the whole city wake

Dubai’s sunrises are rose-tinted spectacles of the highest order and, as expected, the city offers myriad ways to experience them. Your in-resort concierge or private butler at any of our Dubai hotels can arrange a 4X4 trip to the Emirates’ empty dunes to see the orange sun rise above the seemingly endless sand – or make it even more memorable by sailing above the vast expanse by hot air balloon. If you prefer your views with added skyscrapers, there are more urban ways to experience a Dubai dawn too. Top of the list is The View at The Palm: 240 metres above ground level on the 52nd floor, this attraction opened in 2021 and gives visitors unparalleled glimpses of the island’s skyline.

Set your intentions for the day

A dramatic sweep of white sand backed by limestone cliffs, Dreamland Beach is the atmospheric setting for sunrise meditation at Jumeirah Bali, with the gentle rise and fall of the waves providing a blissfully relaxing soundtrack. This scenic opportunity to centre yourself and let your thoughts float away on the balmy Bali breeze is the best introduction to the island’s spiritual side. However, those seeking more adrenaline-fuelled adventures might prefer to head to Benoa or Nusa Dua for a sunrise surf in waters that glow orange with the day’s first rays.

Make a salutation to the sun

It’s an early start for sunrise yoga at Jumeirah Maldives Olhahali Island, with the first session of the day led by the resort’s inhouse yogi beginning at 6am. Still, there’s no better way to wake up weary limbs than a gentle stretch in one of the world’s most beautiful locations – and the class takes place on a roof terrace with panoramic views over the Indian Ocean that looks almost neon in the new dawn. The Maldives is famed for its incredible early mornings so for another unforgettable experience, go snorkelling as the sun comes up. Not only are the fish at their busiest but visibility is better too.

Start swimmingly

There’s something thrilling about being the first person in the hotel pool – especially one bordered by the kind of vast floor-to-ceiling windows that make you feel as though you could be floating in the clouds. At 6am, when the Carlton Tower Jumeirah’s pool opens for London guests, those clouds should be shot through with pink and purple promises of the day ahead. Swim a few lengths or maybe just soak up the atmosphere. Then, complete your wake-up with a stimulating Performance massage in the hotel’s acclaimed Talise Spa.

Book a room with a view

One for the laziest sunrise lovers: What could be more relaxing than throwing open the curtains and watching as dawn bursts out from behind the mountains in the comfort of your cloud-like, king-size bed? At Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa, the Deluxe Tramuntana rooms make the perfect place to see this early morning spectacular. Interest aroused, the hotel can recommend driving, cycling and walking trails through the UNESCO-protected Serra de Tramuntana region, which comes scattered with olive groves, vineyards and the island’s most beautiful villages.

Wake up in some of the world’s most inspiring locations with Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts.