A city that never sleeps.. How did Dubai design and change the rules for using beaches at night to suit the lives of tourists?

The Director-General of Dubai Municipality, Marwan bin Ghalita, confirmed that experiencing the night beaches in the emirate was not an entertainment decision, but rather a direct response to the needs of residents and visitors, and based on Dubai’s philosophy based on developing laws and regulations in a way that serves people first and meets the needs of tourists.

Bin Ghalaita explained, during a session entitled “How do cities maintain their human character” within the activities of the World Government Summit, that beaches around the world are traditionally used only during daylight hours, but the tourist nature of Dubai and the flow of visitors around the clock forced a rethink of the regulatory rules, saying: “We asked why we do not change the regulations for using beaches to keep pace with the reality of the city? From here, work began on making beaches available at night, while applying all safety and regulatory measures.”

He pointed out that this step required legislative amendments and integration between the concerned authorities, in addition to employing modern technologies, within what he described as the “invisible infrastructure” that the visitor does not see, but which constitutes the real basis for the success of the experience.

Bin Ghalaita stressed that the experience of night beaches in Dubai has turned into a global model, as other cities have begun to implement the same idea, which reflects the emirate’s ability to innovate exportable urban solutions, adding: “We are not developing ideas for Dubai only, but rather we are sharing successful experiences that can inspire other cities around the world.”

Empowering youth
Bin Ghalita stressed that empowering youth is a fundamental pillar of the government work system in the UAE, and not just a temporary initiative, explaining that youth do not only participate in implementing projects, but rather lead the ranks in decision-making.

He said: “Young people constitute about 45% of Dubai Municipality’s cadres, and we give them the confidence and responsibility to make bold decisions, while providing them with full support, because they are the ones who will live in this city in the future and will lead its development.”

He added that involving young people in global forums, such as the World Government Summit, gives them the opportunity to interact with decision-makers and global experts, and enhances their readiness to lead future projects that serve society and keep pace with the aspirations of future generations.

Ben Ghalaita touched on the concept of urban memory, explaining that the success of a city is measured by its ability to leave a lasting human impact, saying: “When a visitor retains beautiful memories of the city, and returns to it again and again, this is evidence that we succeed in creating real experiences, and not just facilities.”

He stressed that the flexibility of legislation, investment in people, and youth empowerment constitute fundamental pillars of Dubai Municipality’s approach to building a vibrant city capable of meeting the aspirations of its residents and visitors.