Dubai to Develop Emirate’s Longest Public Beach to Boost Eco-Tourism

Dubai has unveiled ambitious plans to construct the emirate’s longest public beach in Jebel Ali, setting a new benchmark for eco-tourism and sustainable urban development. This landmark project is a major step forward under the wider Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, aiming to transform the city’s coastline while prioritizing environmental conservation.

Approved by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed, Crown Prince of Dubai, the Jebel Ali Beach Development Project will stretch over 6.6 kilometers and offer visitors a unique opportunity to observe turtles and other wildlife in their natural habitat.


A Vision for Dubai’s Coastal Future

The Jebel Ali Beach project is an integral part of Dubai’s commitment to expanding its public beaches by 400 percent. It aligns with Sheikh Hamdan’s vision of making Dubai “the world’s best place to live,” by enhancing recreational spaces and promoting a healthier, greener environment.

“Our focus is on creating spaces rich in beaches, open areas, and recreational greens,” Sheikh Hamdan said while unveiling the project. “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.”


Eco-Tourism at the Heart of Development

The Dubai Media Office emphasized that the new beach will prioritize environmental preservation. Built within an existing wildlife sanctuary, the beach will serve as a model for balancing recreational development with the protection of local ecosystems.

“This beach will be a distinctive recreational destination that places a high priority on environmental preservation and the protection of local ecosystems and wildlife,” the media office confirmed.

Located within the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary, a protected area listed under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance, the project highlights Dubai’s leadership in integrating eco-tourism and wildlife conservation into urban planning.


Pioneering Project in the UAE

According to Mattar Al Tayer, Commissioner General for Infrastructure, Urban Planning, and Well-being in Dubai, the Jebel Ali Beach Development Project stands as the first of its kind in the UAE.

“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,” Al Tayer said.

The project will not only offer a new recreational hotspot for residents and tourists but also ensure the preservation and enhancement of local ecosystems, particularly focusing on:

  • Enhancing turtle habitats.

  • Planting mangrove trees to expand Dubai’s blue carbon footprint.

  • Maintaining minimal ecological impact through sustainable construction and design.


Key Features of the Jebel Ali Beach Development Project

The project has been meticulously planned to combine leisure, education, and environmental stewardship. Some of the major features include:

  • 6.6km Total Beach Length: Divided into sandy beaches and mangrove areas.

  • 330 Hectares of Development Area: A significant footprint designed for maximum sustainability.

  • 2km Swimmable Beach: Open for visitors to swim and enjoy water activities.

  • 2.5km Diving and Marine Sports Area: Designed for adventure and sports enthusiasts.

  • Walkways with Viewing Platforms: Allowing visitors to enjoy scenic views and wildlife without disturbing natural habitats.

  • Dedicated Recreational and Service Areas: Including kids’ play zones, sports areas, and marine activities.

In addition, the project will feature a two-lane road in each direction, parking for 1,000 vehicles, 80 bicycle racks, a cycling track, and a 5km running track to ensure easy access and promote sustainable mobility.


Dividing the Beach into Three Unique Zones

To further enrich visitor experience, the Dubai longest public beach project will be divided into three main zones, each offering a unique attraction:

1. The Pearl

Located near the entrance of Palm Jebel Ali, The Pearl will be the hub for recreational activities. It will feature:

  • A beach club with private stretches of beach.

  • Children’s play areas.

  • Multiple restaurants, cafes, and shops.

  • A floating restaurant, serving as a centerpiece attraction.

2. The Sanctuary

Focused on turtle protection and natural habitat conservation, the Sanctuary will prioritize environmental exploration. Activities will be carefully designed to protect the sensitive ecosystems, allowing visitors to engage safely and respectfully with nature.

3. The Nest

Set amidst the mangrove forest, The Nest will house:

  • An Environmental Centre for biodiversity education.

  • Turtle rehabilitation and care programs.

  • Opportunities for visitors to participate in conservation activities.

Each building and facility will be inspired by natural marine geometry, drawing from shapes like coral formations and turtle shells, and featuring local Boho Style architecture to harmonize with the surroundings.


Sustainable Design for a Better Tomorrow

The architectural design and planning principles underpinning the Jebel Ali Beach Development Project reflect Dubai’s growing commitment to sustainable tourism.

By using locally available materials and focusing on eco-friendly construction, the project ensures that the new public beach contributes positively to Dubai’s environmental goals while offering an unforgettable experience to visitors.

This initiative complements the broader objectives outlined in the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which envisions:

  • A healthy urban environment for residents and tourists alike.

  • Extensive green spaces and public beaches.

  • Development that respects natural habitats and promotes biodiversity.


Enhancing Dubai’s Global Position in Eco-Tourism

As global travelers increasingly seek eco-friendly destinations, Dubai’s investment in sustainable projects like the Jebel Ali Beach enhances its reputation as a leading global city for eco-tourism.

With its emphasis on:

  • Wildlife protection.

  • Community recreation.

  • Climate action initiatives like blue carbon footprint enhancement.

Dubai is positioning itself as a pioneer in blending luxury tourism with sustainability and conservation.


Conclusion

The Jebel Ali Beach Development Project marks a significant milestone in Dubai’s pursuit of a more sustainable and eco-conscious future. By developing the longest public beach in the emirate while prioritizing wildlife preservation and eco-tourism, Dubai is once again demonstrating visionary leadership on the global stage.

Residents and visitors alike can soon look forward to a world-class beach experience that combines natural beauty, environmental stewardship, and state-of-the-art amenities.

With its focus on sustainability, recreation, and innovation, the new Jebel Ali Beach will not just be a leisure destination but a living example of Dubai’s commitment to building a greener, more resilient future.

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