On Sunday, Dubai revealed plans for constructing its longest public beach in Jebel Ali, aimed at becoming a major eco-tourism destination.
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, approved the 6.6km Jebel Ali Beach Development Project, which will let visitors watch turtles in their natural habitat.
This project is part of a broader strategy to expand Dubai's public beaches by 400 percent under the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
“Our focus is on creating spaces rich in beaches, open areas, and recreational greens,” Sheikh Hamdan stated. “The ultimate goal is to enhance the well-being of the city’s people, create a healthy environment for all, and make Dubai the world’s best place to live in.”
The Dubai Media Office announced that the beach, located in an existing wildlife sanctuary, will prioritize environmental preservation and protection of local ecosystems and wildlife.
Mattar Al Tayer, Dubai's commissioner general for infrastructure, urban planning, and well-being, described the project as a significant ecological initiative.
“An open beach for the public and a site of global environmental importance, the Jebel Ali Beach Development Project is the first of its kind in the UAE,” he said. “Located within the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary, listed under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, the development will enhance ecosystems and wildlife at the site, including turtle habitats and mangrove trees. This will contribute to the blue carbon footprint and provide an open beach with minimal ecological impact.”
The project, led by Nakheel and Dubai Municipality, will feature a 5km sandy beach and a 1.6km mangrove beach, along with a 2km swimmable beach, a 2.5km diving sports area, walkways with viewing platforms, and various recreational zones.
The beach will have a two-lane road, parking for 1,000 vehicles, 80 bicycle racks, a cycling track, and a 5km running track. Divided into three areas, the beach will include:
- The Pearl: A hub for beach and recreational activities, including a beach club, children's play zones, restaurants, cafes, shops, and a floating restaurant.
- The Sanctuary: A haven for turtles and other wildlife.
- The Nest: Located within the mangroves, featuring an environmental center for biodiversity studies, turtle rehabilitation, and coastal ecosystem preservation.
The architectural design draws inspiration from natural marine shapes and the Boho Style, using locally available elements and materials.
