Abu Dhabi warns against swimming in restricted coastal zones

Abu Dhabi Police and the Department of Municipalities and Transport (DMT) have issued a joint advisory urging members of the public to refrain from swimming in restricted coastal zones, specifically the stretch from Al Bahia to Al Shalilah.

The DMT explained that these areas pose potential hazards to public safety due to several factors, including strong water currents, underwater obstacles, and the absence of lifeguard services. Authorities emphasized that swimming in such locations could lead to drowning or serious injuries. Clear warning signs have been installed in these areas to alert the public.

Abu Dhabi Police also called on parents to exercise vigilance and not allow their children to access these restricted zones, stressing the importance of supervision and parental guidance to prevent drowning or accidents.

Families were encouraged to follow preventive measures and direct their children to designated swimming areas, where trained lifeguards and safety infrastructure are in place—facilities provided by the Emirate of Abu Dhabi in both public pools and beaches.

In a groundbreaking initiative, the DMT, through Abu Dhabi City Municipality and in collaboration with Zayed Higher Organization for People of Determination, has designated a dedicated beach area for the visually impaired on the Corniche. This marks the first initiative of its kind in the UAE, aimed at enhancing the wellbeing of a valued segment of the community.

The municipality has completed the development of a 1,000-square-meter area near Gate 3 of the Corniche beach, specially designed to accommodate visually impaired individuals and their families. The facility incorporates comprehensive safety, accessibility, and entertainment features.

This initiative supports the inclusion of people of determination and reflects a shared commitment to nation-building and community wellbeing. It also aligns with the municipality’s ongoing efforts to improve quality of life through world-class, accessible infrastructure. The Corniche beach has already earned the Global Organization of Disabled People’s certification as a disability-friendly beach.

Features of the New Beach Zone Include:

Free services for the visually impaired include:

The special beach area will be open from 6 a.m. to midnight, with swimming permitted from 6 a.m. until sunset.

As for safety protocols, the municipality has ensured that the zone is designed to enable independent, safe swimming experiences for the visually impaired, incorporating the highest safety standards. A licensed nurse will be on site during operational hours to provide first aid if needed.

As part of its summer readiness plan, Abu Dhabi City Municipality has enhanced its beaches with a wide range of facilities and services to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors. The preparations include shaded areas, restrooms, children’s play areas, first aid services, and intensified awareness campaigns on environmental and public safety.

Key highlights of the summer plan:

Enhanced facilities:

The municipality has equipped beaches with shaded seating areas, restrooms, playgrounds, rest benches, parking spaces, free drinking water stations, and first aid services.

Awareness campaigns:

Efforts have been increased to educate the public on keeping beaches clean, avoiding littering, preserving public facilities, and practicing safe habits under the sun and in the sea.

Safety measures:

All beaches are staffed with emergency personnel and patrols to ensure public safety. Dedicated safe swimming zones have been created, inclusive of facilities for people of determination.

Events and activities:

During the summer, the municipality organizes a range of entertainment and sports activities at the beaches to encourage community engagement and promote healthy, fun-filled lifestyles for all age groups.