Abu Dhabi’s Al Bateen beach gets international safety rating

Abu Dhabi: Visitors to the ladies-only Al Bateen Beach in the capital can now enjoy themselves along the waterfront knowing fully well that it has been recognised for its standards of safety and hygiene.

The nearly 230-kilometre beach was on December 23 decorated with a Blue Flag, an international certification awarded to safe beaches and marinas by the non-profit eco-governing body, the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).

“This honour signals to our residents and beachgoers that we not only monitor environmental quality at this beach, but also have provisions for safety, including a sufficient number of lifeguards and wheelchairs available for those with special needs,” Abdullah Al Junaibi, Community Services Director at the Municipality of Abu Dhabi City, told Gulf News.

He was speaking on the sidelines of the flag hoisting ceremony held on December 23.

To be presented with a Blue Flag, a beach must comply with 32 strict standards in terms of water quality, health, safety and environment management and education. An awarded beach has a chance to renew its certification every bathing season. In Abu Dhabi, the season lasts throughout the year.

The ladies-only beachfront was opened to the public in July 2014 and has been a big draw with women looking for seclusion and privacy. Officials said the beach sees around 15,000 visitors each month.

In addition to a waterfront secluded from prying eyes, the beach boasts showers, first-aid clinics, and 24-hour security. Entry tickets cost Dh5 for children and Dh25 for adults.

Other beaches managed by the municipality have also been recognised with Blue Flag certification. The first of these was the three-kilometre Corniche Beach, which was awarded the safety rating in 2011. The adjoining Al Bateen Beach was conferred with the certification in December 2013.

In total, the beaches have seen about 2.5 million visitors between them since January 2014, Al Junaibi said.

“This number is growing each year, signalling the high quality of services that we offer at our beach locations. And we are also working to develop the available facilities further, including adding more restaurants and amenities,” the official added.

By law, beachgoers in the capital are required to carry personal identification documents with them.