Dubai's Jumeirah Beach 2 turns 'Gold' with a sensory room. What's it?

DUBAI — In another first for inclusive tourism in this city, Jumeirah Beach 2 has been awarded a Gold Accessibility Certification by the World Disability Union (WDU), making it the Arabian Gulf's first beach to be recognised with such an honour. It has also now added the only beach sensory room in the Middle East, helping ensure it is one of the region's most accessible and inviting public beaches for People of Determination.

The public entity also received prestigious certification for its dedication to creating an accessible beach based on international standards and in line with international commitments such as the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

Six Months of Accessibility Upgrades

The Gold certification comes after a robust six month long upgrade programme spearheaded by Dubai Municipality consisting of infrastructural improvements, enhancements to visitor services, staff training and accessibility solutions

New accessibility features includes:

• Emission free parking spaces for People of Determination

• Paths, ramps and restrooms accessible

• Wheelchair charging stations

• Free beach wheelchairs, chairs and umbrellas

• Golf cart rides over the beach

• Inclusive children's play areas

• Dedicated swimming platform

Essentially, these are floating wheelchairs that allow the elderly or people with disabilities to access the sea safely.

As well as benefiting those with mobility issues directly, the improvements at Perranporth mean that all visitors can experience the beach safely, comfortably and independently.

Middle East's First Beach Sensory Room

An addition to the beach is also the region's first ocean-front sensory room. The sensory space has been created for visitors with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or other sensory sensitivities to enjoy quiet time on the beach before, during, or after their trip.

In addition to physical infrastructure, Dubai Municipality has trained about 150 frontline and operational staff, including lifeguards at the beach in order to support visitors with mobility challenges and those with sensory needs.

Staff training focused on:

• Supporting People of Determination

• Helping ADs on the Spectrum

• Inclusive customer service

• Safe operation of accessibility equipment

• Emergency response procedures

A Step Towards Greater Inclusion

Ibrahim Mohammad Juma, Director of the Public Beaches and Water Canals Department at Dubai Municipality, said this recognition is a new addition to the achievements of Dubai in providing an open environment at public beaches. He also pointed out that access to public places is critical for the improvement of quality life and the strengthening of community inclusion.

The Gold Accessibility Certification is also a new step in the wider ambitions of Dubai Municipality to provide more accessible spaces while promoting Dubai's aspirations as one of the world's most accessible and livable cities.

Find out how Dubai's very own Jumeirah Beach 2 became the Gold beach in Dubai and take a look at Mideast's first sensory room. Read more on Just Dubai.