'Work from Park', 24/7 ladies beach: How Dubai works to develop recreational spaces
Dubai’s public parks recorded an 18% rise in visitors during the first half of 2026, topping the municipality’s public‑space portfolio. Quranic Park led the surge with a 47% jump, while Mushrif National Park grew 20%. The city also expanded its beach offerings with the Al Mamzar Lagoon and Corniche…
Dubai’s public parks and beaches have become the city’s most visited public spaces, recording a record 18% increase in footfall during the first half of 2026. The growth, announced by Dubai Municipality on Monday, places parks ahead of malls, cultural venues and other public‑space categories in the municipality’s portfolio.
Record‑Breaking Visitor Numbers
The data shows that visitors to public parks rose 18% year‑on‑year, with Quranic Park leading the charge. The park, which sits in the heart of the city, saw a 47% jump in visitors, a testament to its popularity as a green oasis for both locals and tourists. Mushrif National Park also saw a strong uptick, with a 20% increase in visitor numbers, driven by new outdoor amenities and a growing interest in family‑friendly activities.
These figures were released against the backdrop of the Arabian Travel Market, which kicked off in Dubai on Monday. The event has traditionally been a key platform for the tourism sector, and the park statistics were highlighted as part of the city’s broader strategy to promote outdoor recreation.
Expanding the Beach Portfolio
Dubai’s coastline has also seen significant development. The first phase of the renovated Al Mamzar Beaches opened in May and has already attracted more than 1.75 million visitors. The renovation split the beach into two distinct areas: Al Mamzar Lagoon Beach, covering 2.75 million square feet, and Al Mamzar Corniche, spanning 1.25 million square feet. The lagoon features a 300‑metre night beach, while the Corniche offers a more secluded, premium experience.
Al Mamzar Lagoon Beach’s night beach is a new addition that allows visitors to enjoy the sea after sunset, a feature that has drawn crowds seeking a unique nighttime beach experience. The Corniche, meanwhile, is being prepared for its official opening and will become Dubai’s eighth public beach. It will host a range of leisure and sports activities, including the world’s first 24/7 ladies‑only beach. The facility will offer night swimming, dedicated female lifeguards and a range of amenities tailored to women’s safety and comfort.
Dubai Frame and Other Attractions
The Dubai Frame, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks, has welcomed around 8.8 million visitors since its opening. According to a spokesperson, the attraction is drawing more local tourists and is in talks with several schools to organize educational trips. The Frame’s popularity underscores Dubai’s commitment to creating engaging public destinations that appeal to a wide audience.
Innovative Outdoor Experiences
Beyond traditional parks, Dubai is pushing the boundaries of outdoor recreation. Mushrif National Park recently opened the Young Rangers Cycling Track, which has already attracted over 18,000 visitors. The track is part of a broader initiative to offer diverse outdoor activities for cyclists, hikers, and families.
Dubai Municipality is also developing a “Work from Park” concept, allowing people to work within public parks. This initiative aims to blend work, recreation and nature, giving residents and visitors more reasons to spend time outdoors. Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality, emphasized the goal of creating attractive public destinations that encourage exploration of the city’s natural and built environments.
What’s Next for Dubai’s Public Spaces?
Looking ahead, the municipality plans to open the Al Mamzar Corniche and launch the 24/7 ladies‑only beach. The “Work from Park” concept is still in development, with plans to integrate workstations, Wi‑Fi and other amenities into existing parks. These projects reflect Dubai’s broader strategy to position the city as a global hub for outdoor leisure and sustainable urban living.
As Dubai continues to invest in public spaces, the city is set to offer an increasingly diverse range of experiences that blend nature, culture and modern amenities. Whether it’s cycling through a forest, swimming at a night beach or working in a park, residents and visitors will have more opportunities than ever to enjoy the city’s vibrant outdoor life.
Why it matters
Dubai’s surge in park and beach visitors highlights the city’s shift toward sustainable, nature‑based recreation, reinforcing its position as a leading destination for outdoor leisure and community engagement.
Key points
- Dubai’s public parks saw an 18% rise in visitors in H1 2026
- Quranic Park led growth with a 47% increase
- Mushrif National Park grew 20% thanks to new cycling track
- Al Mamzar Beaches expanded to 7 public beaches, including a 24/7 ladies‑only beach
- Dubai Municipality is launching a “Work from Park” initiative
Frequently asked questions
What is the 24/7 ladies‑only beach at Al Mamzar?
It is a beach that operates 24/7, offering night swimming, dedicated female lifeguards and a private, premium experience for women.
How does the “Work from Park” concept work?
It will provide workstations, Wi‑Fi and other amenities within public parks, allowing people to combine work and recreation.
Which park saw the biggest visitor increase?
Quranic Park, with a 47% rise in visitors.
