Sheikh Hamdan Approves Eco-Friendly Jebel Ali Beach Development Project
Introduction to Jebel Ali Beach
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, has approved the Master Plan for the Jebel Ali Beach Development Project. This innovative initiative promises to transform Jebel Ali Beach into a unique recreational destination, prioritizing environmental preservation and the protection of local ecosystems and wildlife.
A New Recreational Destination
The Jebel Ali Beach Development Project spans 6.6 km and is set to become a landmark recreational site. Following the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the project aims to create world-class public beaches in Dubai, enhancing the city’s appeal as a top destination for both residents and tourists.
Architectural Excellence
Sheikh Hamdan has also approved the architectural designs for the project’s buildings and facilities. These designs integrate aesthetics and functionality, catering to various beach activities. The project will offer exceptional services, facilities, and public amenities, introducing a new eco-tourism experience where visitors can observe turtles in their natural habitat.
Environmental Conservation Efforts
The Jebel Ali Beach Development Project includes extensive measures to protect and provide a safe nesting environment for turtles, aligning with UAE’s efforts to rescue, rehabilitate, and return turtles to their natural habitat. Sheikh Hamdan emphasized the importance of developing infrastructure and services that enhance urban experiences while promoting a healthy environment.
Project Highlights
Mattar Al Tayer, Commissioner General for Infrastructure, Urban Planning, and Well-Being Pillar, described the project as the first of its kind in the UAE, located within the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is recognized under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance. The project focuses on creating an attractive recreational beachfront while supporting Dubai’s sustainability and eco-tourism goals.
Development Details
Jebel Ali Beach will be the longest public open beach in Dubai, stretching 6.6 km and covering an area of 330 hectares. The plan includes a 5 km sandy beach developed by Nakheel and a 1.6 km mangrove beach developed by Dubai Municipality. The design ensures the preservation of ecosystems and wildlife, including enhancing turtle habitats and planting mangrove trees.
Recreational and Service Areas
The beach will feature a 2 km open swimmable area, a 2.5 km diving sports area, and a walkway with viewing platforms. It will include recreational and service areas for all ages, such as kids play zones, sports, and marine activity areas. The infrastructure will support a two-lane road in each direction, parking for 1,000 vehicles, 80 bicycle racks, a cycling track, and a 5 km running track.
Three Main Locations
The beach will be divided into three main areas:
- The Pearl: Near Palm Jebel Ali, this area will offer family-friendly activities, sports, swimming pools, and various dining options.
- The Sanctuary: Dedicated to environmental conservation, this area will focus on turtle habitats and natural surroundings.
- The Nest: Located within the mangrove area, this site will provide educational and recreational opportunities related to biodiversity and environmental preservation.
Architectural Inspiration
The architectural design draws from natural marine geometry and the Boho style, using local materials to blend with the natural dunescape. The project offers investment opportunities in restaurants, leisure centers, and commercial kiosks, ensuring maximum comfort for visitors.
Additional Beach Developments
The Supreme Committee for Urban Planning and Quality of Life has awarded contracts for developing Al Mamzar and Jumeirah 1 Beaches, enhancing the overall infrastructure for beachgoers. These projects will transform Dubai’s beaches into some of the most advanced and attractive in the world, catering to an increasing number of beachgoers and water sports enthusiasts.
Advanced Facilities
The beaches will feature public health and service facilities, including restrooms, shower areas, and changing rooms. They will also include recreational and kids play zones, sports areas, barbecue spots, and spaces for seasonal events. Modern technology services, such as Wi-Fi, electronic screens, and advanced beach rescue systems, will ensure safety and comfort for visitors.
Commitment to Accessibility
The plan aims to develop 100% of Dubai’s beaches, raising service levels and increasing the length of night-swimmable beaches, cycling tracks, and jogging paths. Facilities will be compatible with the Dubai Code for an Accessible Environment, meeting global best practices.
Dubai’s Public Beaches
Dubai currently boasts eight public beaches, all of which have received Blue Flag accreditation for meeting high standards in marine water quality, environmental education, management, public safety, and services.
The Jebel Ali Beach Development Project represents a significant step in enhancing Dubai’s recreational offerings while prioritizing environmental conservation and sustainability. This project promises to create a world-class destination for residents and visitors alike, contributing to Dubai’s vision of becoming the best city to live in.
