Jumeirah Beach 2 becomes Dubai's first Gold-certified accessible beach and introduces the Middle East's first beach sensory room

• Awarded the Gold Accessibility Certification by the World Disability Union in recognition of compliance with international accessibility standards
• First beach destination in the Middle East to introduce a dedicated sensory room for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder and sensory sensitivities
• Gold certification follows a six-month accessibility enhancement programme combining infrastructure upgrades, specialised accessibility solutions, staff training, and operational readiness measures
• Reinforces Dubai Municipality’s commitment to providing safe, inclusive, and accessible public beaches for People of Determination
• Supports Dubai’s vision for quality of life, social inclusion, and human-centric urban development

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 29 June 2026: Dubai Municipality has announced that Jumeirah Beach 2 has been awarded the Gold Accessibility Certification by the World Disability Union, becoming Dubai’s first beach to receive the prestigious accreditation in recognition of its commitment to providing a safe, inclusive, and fully accessible environment for People of Determination in line with international accessibility standards and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities.

The achievement marks a significant milestone in Dubai Municipality’s efforts to advance accessibility and inclusivity across public beaches and recreational destinations, ensuring that People of Determination can enjoy public facilities independently, comfortably, and with confidence.

The Gold Accessibility Certification follows a comprehensive accessibility enhancement programme delivered by Dubai Municipality in just six months, transforming Jumeirah Beach 2 into one of the region’s most inclusive beach destinations. 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.

As part of the programme, the beach now features dedicated parking spaces for People of Determination, 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, and floating wheelchairs that enable safe and comfortable access to the sea. Together, these enhancements create a more barrier-free recreational experience for People of Determination and their families.

A standout feature of the accessibility programme is the introduction of the Middle East’s first beach sensory room. The facility has been specifically designed to support visitors with Autism Spectrum Disorder and individuals with sensory sensitivities by providing a calm and supportive environment that promotes sensory regulation, comfort, and wellbeing before, during, or after their beach visit.

Accessibility at Jumeirah Beach 2 also extends beyond infrastructure and facilities to include service excellence and operational readiness. Approximately 150 frontline and operational staff 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. This ensures that visitors receive safe, respectful, and effective support throughout their beach experience.

Eng. Ibrahim Mohammad Juma, Director of the Public Beaches and Water Canals Department at Dubai Municipality, said: “This international recognition reflects Dubai Municipality’s commitment to ensuring that public beaches are accessible, inclusive, and welcoming spaces for everyone. We believe that quality of life begins with equal access to public facilities and experiences, and we continue to invest in infrastructure, services, training, and innovative solutions that enable People of Determination to enjoy Dubai’s beaches safely, independently, and with dignity.”

He added: “Receiving the Gold Accessibility Certification from the World Disability Union represents an important milestone in our ongoing efforts to embed accessibility and inclusivity into the design and operation of public spaces. The completion of this comprehensive enhancement programme in just six months, together with the introduction of the region’s first beach sensory room, demonstrates our commitment to adopting leading global practices that enhance wellbeing and ensure that every member of society can fully participate in community life.”

The certification builds on Dubai Municipality’s wider role in developing inclusive public beaches and recreational destinations across the emirate. The Municipality continues to enhance public beach facilities through accessible infrastructure, mobility support services, inclusive amenities, and trained operational teams, ensuring that People of Determination and their families can enjoy Dubai’s coastal destinations with greater comfort, confidence, and independence.

The achievement reinforces Dubai Municipality’s efforts to create human-centric public spaces that support social inclusion, accessibility, and community wellbeing. It also reflects Dubai’s continued progress towards becoming one of the world’s most inclusive and liveable cities through the delivery of public services and facilities that meet the needs of all segments of society.