Dog owners take note, there's a new weekend spot where you can hang out with your four-legged friend.
Dubai's Flopster Beach events officially launched on Friday in Ghantoot. Located at the beach at the Golden Tulip Al Jazira Bungalows, the new dog and family friendly beach event will take place every Friday from 10am until 7pm.
Of the launch on Friday, October 16, founder of Flopster Laetitia Guidicelli told The National: "Flopster Beach Day was created to cater for the growing number of dog owners in the UAE who want to enjoy a fun day with their pooch and meet other like-minded dog owners.
"Every weekend, dog lovers can join us to enjoy the beautiful weather, take part in the many activities we have on offer or simply relax on the beach.”
The first event was filled with dog-friendly watersports, beach yoga and more. Click though the gallery above to see photos of owners and pets alike enjoying the beach day.
With the winter season now under way, here's everything you need to know if you want to go to one of the upcoming events:
How can I get a ticket?
Pre-booking is essential. Guests can book their spot on the Flopster app via Flopster's social media pages or by emailing hello@flopster.com.
There's the option to go for the day, or to spend the night. Day passes cost Dh100 for one person and one dog, with additional dogs charged at Dh50.
Overnight stays start from Dh350, and guests booking accommodation will pay a reduced rate of Dh80 for their beach pass. Check-in at the Al Jazira bungalows is from 2pm, with checkout at noon on Saturdays. The dog-friendly accommodation offers the choice of single rooms up to four-bedroom bungalows and guests staying overnight should bring their own food and drink.
How do I get there?
The venue is located about 40 minutes from Dubai and less than an hour from Abu Dhabi, people coming from Dubai do not need a Covid-19 test to reach the venue.
From Abu Dhabi, at the border checkpoint before the Ghantoot exit, those with confirmed reservations for Flopster Beach or Al Jazira Bungalows should take the blue lane on the right-hand side of the road and inform officials that they are going to Ghantoot.
Once travellers have cleared the checkpoint, they can proceed to the exit and follow the signs marked "Bungalows".
Do I need a Covid-19 test to visit from Abu Dhabi?
People coming to Flopster Beach Days from Abu Dhabi will not need a Covid-19 test to get there. However, as per current UAE regulations, people crossing the border into the capital must show valid negative test results on their way into the capital.
What rules are in place?
All dogs arriving at the event will be screened on arrival and pet owners must bring a copy of their animal's vet book to show that vaccinations are up to date. Owners also have to sign a waver confirming that dogs are friendly, trained and sociable. Aggressive dogs will not be admitted.
There is a professional dog handler on staff for safety reasons, who will assist in screening the dogs they arrive.
Dogs must be on-leash at all times, except when on the beach and day-pass holders have to leave the shore at 7pm when the event ends.
What can I do there?
As well as enjoying the freedom of the shoreline, more adventurous pups can get set for some fun on the water with kayaking and paddle boarding set up for both humans and dogs.
There's also the chance to take surf lessons with your pooch if you want to try catching a wave or two.
Pet grooming points and food and water stations have been set up on the beach to make sure dogs are well-looked after. Each week, Flopster plans to run activities including games on the beach, yoga, competitions and more. There's an onsite shop for snacks and drinks, so don't forget to bring cash.
