Blue Flags fly above Dubai beaches to show quality

Blue flags will fly from beaches across Dubai after many met international environmental standards on cleanliness, some for the first time.

Globally recognised flags to mark a beach’s quality and a haven for safe swimming are now in place at Jumeirah 1, 2 and 3 beaches and Umm Suqeim 1 and 2 beaches.

The approval was granted by the Foundation for Economic Education for one season.

Beaches are regularly assessed to see if they meet strict criteria on water quality, environmental management, safety, comfort and access to protective equipment.

The Blue Flag award began in the UAE in 2010, with 28 beaches granted the status across the country. Of those, 10 are public beaches.

There are currently 4,558 Blue Flag beaches and marinas across 44 countries.

“These beaches are a tourist attraction and aesthetic destination,” said Dawoud Al Hajri, director general of Dubai Municipality.

“They are a safe and world-class leisure outlet offering modern services and comfort and security aspects for all segments of the society, especially families.”

The National