One of Dubai’s most loved shorelines is set for a serious glow-up. Expect a bigger beachfront and a new landmark inspired by the city’s maritime heritage.
Dubai is constantly reinventing itself, and its coastline is next in line for a refresh. Umm Suqeim Beach, long loved for its open stretch of sand and those picture-postcard views of the Burj Al Arab, is set to be redeveloped as part of a new masterplan announced by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai.
Spanning more than three kilometres and covering over 445,000 square metres, the project forms part of Dubai Municipality’s wider push to elevate public beaches across the emirate. The aim is to create a more inclusive, better-connected beachfront that works for everyone, whether you are visiting with family, training for your next run, or just chasing a sunset swim.
The standout addition will be a 38-metre observation tower, designed as a new visual marker along the shoreline and inspired by Dubai’s maritime heritage. Expect it to become a meeting point and a new spot for skyline snaps. The redevelopment will also introduce six main gateways, using design cues that nod to the area’s character and history.
For those who prefer the beach after dark, smart lighting will illuminate around 130,000 square metres of the shoreline, making night swimming and evening strolls far more practical. Getting there should also be less of a headache. Plans include a 200 per cent increase in parking capacity, 10 mobility hubs, 11 taxi pick-up and drop-off points, and dedicated bicycle and electric scooter facilities.
Once complete, Umm Suqeim Beach is expected to welcome up to six million visitors a year, with a 30 per cent increase in beach area and usable public space. With multiple community destinations taking shape across Dubai, including Bay360 in JLT, this waterfront upgrade is worth keeping on your radar.
GO: Visit www.visitdubai.com for more information.