Dubai: Have you ever seen a beachfront that features accessible pathways and ramps, inclusive playground facilities, and even wheelchair charging stations? Welcome to Dubai’s first Gold-certified accessible beach: Jumeirah Beach 2.
Here’s everything you need to know about this unique beach, and what you can expect to find there.
Jumeirah Beach 2 becomes fully accessible
On June 29, the Dubai Municipality announced that Jumeirah Beach 2 has been awarded the Gold Accessibility Certification by the World Disability Union, becoming the city’s first beach to receive the prestigious accreditation.
The Gold Accessibility Certification follows a comprehensive accessibility enhancement programme delivered by Dubai Municipality in just six months. The programme combined infrastructure upgrades, specialised accessibility solutions, staff training, and operational readiness measures to ensure visitors of all abilities can access and enjoy the beach safely, independently, and comfortably.
New amenities
As part of the programme, the beach now features a more barrier-free recreational experience for People of Determination and their families. Here are the new upgrades:
- Dedicated parking spaces
- Accessible pathways and ramps
- Accessible toilets and shower facilities
- Wheelchair charging stations
- Golf cart transportation services
- Inclusive playground facilities
- Complimentary beach chairs and umbrellas
- A dedicated swimming platform
- Floating wheelchairs for safe, comfortable access to the sea
- Sensory room
What is the sensory room?
The Middle East’s first beach sensory room is now open for visitors at Jumeirah Beach 2. The facility is designed especially for visitors with autism spectrum disorder, and individuals with sensory sensitivities, according to Dubai Municipality.
The room’s calm, supportive environment features comfortable seating, plushies and toys, art supplies, and warm lighting. It offers sensory regulation, comfort, and wellbeing, whenever an individual requires it during their visit to the beach.
Trained staff
Inclusivity and accessibility doesn’t end with amenities at Jumeirah Beach 2. It extends beyond infrastructure and facilities to include service and operational readiness.
According to Dubai Municipality, approximately 150 frontline and operational staff have received specialised training as part of the certification programme, covering support for people with mobility challenges, autism spectrum disorder, and sensory sensitivities, as well as the safe operation of accessibility equipment, inclusive customer service, and emergency response procedures.
The goal of the programme is to ensure that visitors receive safe, respectful, and effective support throughout their beach experience.