The Dubai Water Canal is a masterpiece of engineering. It has quickly become one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dubai. This blog post will provide a complete tour guide for the Dubai Water Canal. We will cover everything from the best places to eat and drink near the canal to the best places to stay. Let’s dive in!
What is the Dubai Water Canal?
The Water Canal Dubai is a 3.2-kilometer (2.0 mi) artificial waterway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). It opened on 9 October 2016 and has cost AED 2.5 billion to build. The canal links the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea through the Dubai Creek extension.
Dubai Water Canal Architecture
The canal has created a new waterfront for Dubai and increased the city’s beachfront by 3.2 kilometers (2 mi). It is expected to attract an additional 1.5 million visitors annually and add AED 20 billion to the economy by 2030.
The canal has also added a new dimension to the city’s skyline with the construction of eight bridges across it. The first of these bridges, the Safa Park Bridge, was completed in October 2016. The other seven bridges are the Jumeirah Beach Road Bridge, the Financial Centre Road Bridge, the Shaikh Zayed Road Bridge, the Dubai Creek Extension Bridge, the Al Wasl Road Bridge, the Safa 2 Bridge, and the Business Bay Crossing.
The canal has a depth of 7 meters (23 ft) and a width of 50 meters (160 ft). It is expected to accommodate up to 97,000 vessels per year.
Dubai Water Canal Waterfall
The Dubai Water Canal Falls is one of the city’s most beautiful and serene places. It is located in the heart of the Business Bay area and offers a magnificent view of the Dubai skyline. The waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and has a calming effect on the mind and body. Visitors can relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere while admiring the stunning view.
Dubai Canal Bridge
The canal bridge, also known as the Business Bay Crossing, is in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is the first of its kind in the world and spans the width of the Business Bay Canal.
It links old and new Dubai, connecting Business Bay with Burj Khalifa/Downtown Dubai. The project includes a three-lane roadway on either side of the canal and two pedestrian walkways.
The bridge’s total length is 442 m, and its width is 24 m. Its main span is 315 m, and its clearance is 21 m above the water level, which is high enough to allow the passage of most tall ships and yachts.
Gulf Contracting Company (GCC) built the canal bridge, which the international engineering firm AECOM designed. The project cost an estimated AED 1 billion (US$272 million).
Best places to visit in Dubai Water Canal
If you are looking for some popular things to do at the Dubai Canal, then the cruises are your choice. Let’s discuss some cruises you can visit on the Dubai canal.
1. Dubai Canal Abra ride
If you want an ancient Emirati mode of transportation, an abra is your best choice. Emirates has been using this old mode of transportation for generations.
It represents the United Arab Emirates’ heritage. You can have this wonderful experience on the Abra ride as a tourist.
2. Dubai Canal Yacht cruise
Dubai canal yacht cruise is a 3-hour cruise you can take during breakfast, lunch, or supper.
The first destination of this journey is Marasi Business Bay. Other attractive places on this site include the gorgeous blue waters, cafes, and restaurants.
During your visit to the Dubai Canal Yacht cruise, you can see some major landmarks in Dubai, like Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Business Bay District, and the Cheese Building.
You can have breakfast, which includes croissants and muffins. During the afternoon and evening tours, you will also get delicious foods like lamb kofta, burgers, salads, and dessert juices.
3. Dubai Canal Dhow Cruise
Dubai Canal Dhow Cruise is a water-borne mode of transport. During the cruise, you can view the famous Arabian Gulf in all its glory.
You can appreciate the Dubai skyline differently on the Dubai Canal Dhow cruise. You will also enjoy the relaxing atmosphere and sleep soundly at night. However, there are three main locations for the dhow cruise experience: Dubai Creek, Canal, and Dubai Marina. Most tourists prefer Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina for its cruising route and location.
Restaurants Near Water Canal Dubai
Are you looking for a waterfront dining experience in Dubai? Check out our list of restaurants near the Dubai Water Canal.
1. Manga Sushi:
If you love Japanese culture and want to explore it through a restaurant, Manga Sushi is your choice. It is designed like a funky spaceship, and you will be thoroughly delighted to be at this avant-garde restaurant.
At dinner, the kitsch décor gives a new charm to this place. Several screens play anime hits while the diners can peruse the bookshelves of manga comics therein. Regarding the menu, you have authentic Japanese and pride in different sushi varieties.
2. The Rose and The Crown:
This fantastic restaurant, The Rose and The Crown, is a typical British pub. Its delightful interior makes you feel cozy and comfortable, and the menu is hearty and wholesome.
3. Karachi Grill:
Karachi Grill is the best choice if you are from Pakistan or love Pakistani culture and food. This fine restaurant offers traditional food, including rice, meat, and kebab. It also provides various buffet options and a comprehensive a la carte menu.
Tips for visiting the Dubai Water Canal
There are many ways to enjoy the Dubai Water Canal, but here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:
- Dubai Water Canal is open 24/7. However, the evening is the best time to visit this charming place. When you visit the Dubai Canal at sunset, you can see the fantastic view of the sparkling city there. The waterfall also functions in the evening.
- Take a camera with you to capture beautiful scenes and collect some memories.
- You can drive to the canal by hiring a cab or taxi, but if you have your vehicle, you must park it under the Sheikh Zayed Road Bridge. Remember! There is no free parking. You have to pay through SMS using a number code.
- As a tourist or visitor to Dubai, you must carry your passport while sightseeing in the city and when you visit the Dubai Water Canal.
- Avoid throwing anything near or around the promenade or canal, and keep the place neat and clean.
- You better wear loose and comfortable clothes during your visit to the canal in the evening. It would help if you took a shawl or a jacket during the winter season due to the cool weather. On the contrary, you can wear a cap, scarf, and sunglasses during the daytime. It is because the sun can be a bit harsh during the day.
What is the mode of transportation for traveling to the Dubai Water Canal?
1. By car
If you travel by car to the canal, you must go along the Sheikh Zayed Road, which leads towards the Trade Center.
Now, if you have a personal car, you can park under the Sheikh Zayed Road Bridge, while the people who hire a cab or a taxi can alight there at the canal.
2. By Metro
As you might see, Metro is the easiest way to reach the Dubai Water Canal.
After taking the red line, you will go towards the UAE Centre and get off at the Business Bay Station. You will cross a bridge from the Business Bay Station that will take you toward Sheikh Zayed Road. It will eventually take you directly to the canal.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In which year was the Dubai canal built?
Dubai Canal was officially laid out in 2013. However, Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the emirates’ vice president and prime minister, inaugurated the water canal formally on 9 November 2016.
Why Should One Take a Dubai Canal Abra Ride?
The traditional Abra boat is an excellent part of Dubai’s culture. Exploring the canal’s beauty and tasting the local culture is a beautiful opportunity. Apart from this, the Abra ride is a family activity. You can have fun with your family.
Why is taking a Dubai Canal Yacht Cruise fun?
Taking a Yacht cruise is a luxurious activity. It is one of the most luxurious facilities available on the canal. The Yacht cruise offers fascinating views of Dubai’s canal and a fantastic traditional dining experience. Here, you will have the most romantic way of exploring the Water Canal.
What facilities can one have at Dubai Canal?
This wonderfully made Dubai Canal has various facilities, such as a shopping center, charging stations, wheelchair-friendly strollers, pedestrian bridges, and Mariana stations.
Can I take a boat or ferry to cross the Dubai Canal?
Yes. You can take a ferry or a water taxi to cross the Dubai Canal. If you ask me about the time of the ferries, let me tell you they cross the Dubai Canal thrice daily. The ferries leave from the Jada Marine station every day at 10:00 AM, 12:00 Noon, and 05.40 PM.
Takeaway
The Dubai Water Canal is where locals and tourists can enjoy nature’s beauty, take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, and spend time with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for an excellent spot for an afternoon picnic or want to take a walk and admire the scenery, this new attraction in Dubai is worth checking out. Have you been to the Dubai Water Canal? What did you think? Let us know in the comments below!
Happy Reading!