One of Dubai's most recognisable beaches is set for a major transformation, after plans for the Umm Suqeim Beach redevelopment — a Dhs500 million project — were officially approved.
His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the UAE, and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, approved the Umm Suqeim Beach masterplan on Sunday, 1 February 2026. The project forms part of Dubai's long-term urban development strategy and aims to reposition the beachfront as a landmark leisure and tourism destination.
A 3.1km Beachfront Redevelopment
The approved masterplan will extend across 3.1 kilometres of coastline and feature six main gateways, each designed with distinctive architectural elements that reflect the local identity of Umm Suqeim. A 38-metre observation tower will also be introduced, offering elevated views of the surrounding coastline.
According to Dubai's city planners, the Umm Suqeim Beach redevelopment is intended to transform the destination into a "one-of-a-kind global attraction", enhancing both visitor experience and quality of life for residents.
"The master plan for the development of Umm Suqeim Beach will transform it into an iconic destination of universal appeal, while showcasing a distinctive Emirati identity that makes it truly one of a kind," officials said.
Improved Access, Mobility and Parking
The redevelopment places a strong focus on accessibility and ease of movement. Plans include the creation of 10 mobility hubs, 11 taxi pick-up and drop-off points, and fully integrated facilities for bicycles and e-scooters. Parking capacity in the area will increase by 200 per cent, ultimately providing approximately 2,400 parking spaces.
Road infrastructure surrounding the beach will also be upgraded, with improved access from Jumeirah Street and redesigned traffic routes to separate beach visitors from nearby residential areas.
Night Swimming and Climate Resilience
As part of efforts to make Umm Suqeim an all-day destination, smart lighting systems will illuminate around 130,000 square metres of beachfront. The plans include the introduction of night swimming, further extending the beach's usability well beyond daylight hours.
The project will increase beach area and developable spaces by 30 per cent. A two-kilometre retaining wall will be constructed and beach levels will be elevated as part of measures designed to address climate change and rising sea levels. The beach is expected to welcome up to 6 million visitors annually once complete.
Sheikh Hamdan's Vision for Quality of Life
Commenting on the approval, Sheikh Hamdan said the project reflects Dubai's commitment to world-class urban design and sustainable tourism development.
"The project is part of our ongoing drive to enhance Dubai's beaches with world-class design elements that reflect the city's spirit of innovation and creativity, and its leadership in leveraging the highest urban planning standards and advanced technology to deliver distinctive, sustainable leisure and tourism facilities," he said.
"Dubai is a jewel among cities and a pearl among beach destinations, and the quality of life of its residents and visitors remains our top priority."
Part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan
The Umm Suqeim Beach redevelopment aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033.
Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director General of Dubai Municipality, said the project reflects the municipality's commitment to delivering high-quality tourism infrastructure while prioritising sustainability, inclusivity and community wellbeing.
"In developing Umm Suqeim Beach, we focus on creating an all-day beach destination that combines leisure, sports and culture, while adhering to the highest standards of safety, accessibility and inclusivity for people of determination and senior citizens," he said.
"We seek to make the beach a welcoming space for all segments of society."
