The master plan for Dubai’s Jebel Ali Beach development project has secured approval from the United Arab Emirates' (UAE) Vice-President, Prime Minister, and Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.   

The architectural designs for the project’s buildings and facilities have also been granted. 

Part of Dubai's 2040 Urban Master Plan, the project aims to expand public beach space by 400%, integrating new and upgraded facilities for recreation, sports, aesthetics, and investment.  

Jebel Ali Beach is said to become Dubai's longest public open beach at 6.6km and spanning 330ha, and will undergo development across two zones.  

Specifically, Nakheel will oversee the creation of a 5km sandy beach while Dubai Municipality will develop a 1.6km mangrove beach.  

Dubai Infrastructure, Urban Planning, and Well-Being Pillar commissioner general Mattar Al Tayer said: “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. It is located within the Jebel Ali Wildlife Sanctuary, listed under the Ramsar Convention on Wetlands of International Importance.  

“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. The beach will be connected with integrated infrastructure, including a two-lane road in each direction, parking for 1,000 vehicles, 80 bicycle racks, a cycling track, and a 5km running track.” 

Jebel Ali Beach will be divided into three locations, namely the Pearl, Sanctuary, and Nest. 

The Pearl will cater to family and sports activities, featuring a beach club, restaurants, and shops.  

The Sanctuary will serve as a protected area for turtles and natural habitats. 

Lastly, the Nest within the mangrove area will function as an educational hub, focusing on biodiversity studies and turtle rehabilitation. 

Measures and regulations will be implemented to safeguard turtles and ensure they have a secure nesting environment, supporting UAE initiatives to rescue, rehabilitate, and preserve the country's marine ecosystem. 

The Supreme Committee for Urban Planning and Quality of Life has awarded contracts to develop Al Mamzar and Jumeirah 1 Beaches, totalling 5.7km.