The Dubai Canal, a remarkable artificial waterway, stretches for 3.2 kilometres, transforming the city’s urban landscape and connecting the vibrant Downtown Dubai area to the Arabian Gulf. This architectural marvel not only serves as a functional waterway but also offers a scenic route adorned with pedestrian bridges, charming walkways, and leisure zones.
Reaching the Boardwalk
The Dubai Water Canal Boardwalk is easily accessible from various points along the canal. Located near Sheikh Zayed Road, it can be reached by public buses, taxis, or your own vehicle. Ferries and water taxis also operate along the canal, making it easily reachable from the best luxury hotels in Dubai no matter what mode of transport you choose.
What You Should Know
The Dubai Canal is a hub of activity, featuring cycling lanes, footpaths, running tracks and seating areas along its scenic expanse. Powered by solar energy, its eco-friendly design includes streetlights and convenient charging stations for keeping devices powered while enjoying the view. The canal boasts nine marine stations, offering ferries, water taxis, dhow cruises, and abras (a traditional boat) which are ideal if you want to get a unique perspective of the city.
The Waterfall Display
Located on the Sheikh Zayed Road Bridge at Exit 4, the Dubai Canal Waterfall is a major attraction, drawing visitors with its dazzling show of water and lights in the evenings. The design of the waterfall is such that it is set to shut off automatically when a boat gets close. Consider dropping by to see this spectacle for yourself, as it makes a great excursion especially if you happen to be staying at centrally located properties like Paramount Hotel Midtown.
The Footbridges
The Dubai Water Canal features five striking pedestrian bridges – and a few of them connect to either side of the canal. Among them, the Tolerance Bridge, named in honour of International Tolerance Day, stands out as the first suspended bridge of its kind in the United Arab Emirates. The other bridges connect Jumeirah Road, Al Wasl Road and Sheikh Zayed Road.