Dubai unveils plans for its longest public beach

Dubai on Sunday unveiled its plans to build its longest public beach in an effort to position itself as a leading eco-tourism destination.

According to The National News, the proposed beach, spanning 6.6 kilometres, is slated for development in Jebel Ali, a significant commercial port in the emirate.

The Jebel Ali Beach Development Project was approved by Dubai’s Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed and it aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, targeting a 400% expansion of the emirate’s public beaches.

Visitors will be able to observe turtles in their natural habitat at the new beach once it is completed, enhancing their overall eco-tourism experience in the area.

"Our focus is on creating spaces rich in beaches, open areas, and recreational greens," Sheikh Hamdan said.

"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 beach, to be built in an existing wildlife sanctuary, will be a "distinctive recreational destination that places a high priority on environmental preservation and the protection of local ecosystems and wildlife".

The large-scale project will include a 5km sandy beach and a 1.6km mangrove beach.

Mattar Al Tayer, Dubai's commissioner general for infrastructure, urban planning and well-being, revealed details of the plan.

According to him, the plan includes a "2km open swimmable beach, a 2.5km diving sports area, a walkway with viewing platforms to blend with the surrounding environment, and recreational and service areas for beachgoers of all ages, including kids play zones, sports and marine activity areas."

Additionally, the beach will feature parking for 1,000 vehicles, 80 bicycle racks, a cycling track, a 5km running track, and a floating restaurant as a centrepiece of the development.