Coastal Processes Understanding for Safeguarding the Dynamic Dubai Coastal Zone

The rapid evolution of Dubai's coastal zone, driven by mega reclamation developments, requires a sound understanding of prevailing coastal processes and environmental conditions, including due consideration of the manner in which such waterfront developments interact with the natural coastline and marine waters. Dubai beaches are relatively narrow in width (due to rapid foreshore infrastructure development) and highly vulnerable to coastal erosion — an impact that has been amplified in some areas due to the effects of the new offshore developments on nearshore coastal processes. These coastal foreshore areas, as well as the reclaimed lands in the new developments are generally low lying, making the entire coastal zone vulnerable to extreme wave and water level events. Through a combination of coastal monitoring and numerical modeling a unique dataset of morphological response to mega developments have been compiled by the Coastal Management Section of Dubai Municipality. The knowledge gained has guided coastal management decisions to ensure the sustainable development and preservation of the Dubai coastal zone.