Features
In its natural state the approximately 70km long Dubai coastline consisted primarily of long sandy beaches backed by dunes. However, infra-structural developments related to trade, tourism and fishing have resulted in significant development within the Dubai coastal zone over recent years. The developments have interfered with the natural coastal processes of waves, tidal currents and sediment transport, in many cases leading to severe adverse impacts such as the interruption of longshore sediment transport.
Natural state of the Dubai shoreline, consisting of sandy beaches backed by dunes.
In many instances these developments have contributed to severe beach erosion along sections of the coastline. This erosion has not only reduced amenity values, but has also resulted in infra-structural damage through overtopping, inundation and undermining of coastal structures.
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Infra-structural damage caused by coastal erosion in Jumeirah in the late 1990's.
Besides the phenomenon of beach erosion, inappropriate coastal developments can lead to severe environmental degradation. Potential examples within the Dubai context have been the mortality and/or destruction of coral reefs, water quality problems on the beaches and within the creek and estuarine environments, and even visual pollution due to obtrusive coastal structures. Some of the other issues receiving attention are the integrity of sea defences, harbour sedimentation problems and the availability of suitable sand sources for artificial nourishment.
Environmental Conditions
Dubai's wave climate is mild with extended calm periods interspersed by the occurrence of more energetic wave conditions during shamal (wind storm) events. These events occur mainly during winter from November to April. The higher shamal waves are generated by strong winds blowing down the approximately 800 km length of the Arabian Gulf. The principal offshore wave directions of 275° to 305° N are coincident with the longest fetches and the strongest winds in the Arabian Gulf. Under shamal conditions significant wave heights nearshore are typically in the order of 1.0 to 2.5 m with peak periods in the order of 6 to 8 s.
Tides in Dubai can be described as semi-diurnal with the tidal range in the order of 0.7 (neap) to 1.8 m (spring). Tidal currents are generally weak with maximum near-surface current velocities in the order of 20 to 30 cm/s.
