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Places of interest

Dubai Water Canal

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Urban, modern, and open-air
Dubai Water Canal - شارع شاطئ جميرا - Jumeirah - Jumeira Second - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Interesting facts
1

The project required the excavation of 3 million cubic meters of earth.

2

The canal's pedestrian bridge, the Tolerance Bridge, features a distinctive curved architectural design.

3

The waterway creates a new island that effectively separates the Jumeirah 2 area from the rest of the city.

4

The mechanical waterfall on the Sheikh Zayed Road bridge is controlled by sensors to ensure boat safety during transit.

5

The canal connects directly to the older creek areas via the Dubai coastline, allowing marine vessels to navigate from the Gulf into the city center.

Overview

The Dubai Water Canal is a 3.2-kilometer man-made waterway connecting the Business Bay district to the Arabian Gulf. It incorporates a mechanical waterfall on the Sheikh Zayed Road bridge that utilizes sensors to detect passing boats and pause the water flow. The project includes a 12-kilometer promenade, five pedestrian bridges, and landscaped green spaces spanning 80,000 square meters. A significant portion of the canal creates an artificial island connecting the Jumeirah district to the mainland. The waterway is integrated with the city's coastal road network, altering the geographical profile of the area by cutting through Sheikh Zayed Road.

Photo spot

The pedestrian bridge closest to Sheikh Zayed Road provides the most direct view of the mechanical waterfall.

Insider tips

Walk the pedestrian bridge near Sheikh Zayed Road at night to view the illuminated waterfall.

Wear comfortable footwear as the promenade stretches for several kilometers.

Bring a wide-angle lens if you intend to photograph the full span of the waterfall or the skyline reflections.

What to avoid

Attempting to walk the entire 12-kilometer promenade in one session during summer months, as shade is limited.

Etiquette

Modest clothing is recommended as the area passes through public residential and tourist zones; public displays of affection should be kept discreet.

Plan your visit
Typical visit
1-2 hours
Best time to visit
Sunset or evening during the cooler months (November to March) to avoid daytime heat and see the illuminated bridge lighting.
Address
Dubai Water Canal - شارع شاطئ جميرا - Jumeirah - Jumeira Second - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
25.196, 55.236
Get directions
Details
Key FeatureMechanical waterfall
Total Length3.2 kilometers

Frequently asked

Plan for about 1-2 hours to see the highlights.

The best time to visit is Sunset or evening during the cooler months (November to March) to avoid daytime heat and see the illuminated bridge lighting..

The pedestrian bridge closest to Sheikh Zayed Road provides the most direct view of the mechanical waterfall.

Close by you'll find Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Fountain, Jumeirah Beach.