Al Sufouh Beach temporarily closed to the public

Dubai Media Office says the area is a privately owned beach

Al Sufouh beach was closed to the public this weekend. The National

A popular local beach in Dubai has been closed to the public temporarily.

Al Sufouh Beach, also known as Secret Beach or Black Palace Beach, was closed on Sunday with Dubai Municipality signs erected at the entrance and on the road reading 'Beach is closed temporarily'. It is understood the beach has been closed since Friday.

In response to a query from The National, Dubai Media Office said the area is a "privately owned beach".

Between royal palaces in Al Sufouh and close to Knowledge Village, the entrance is unsigned and there are no facilities and no restaurants.

The beach is popular due to its ease of access for vehicles and a long seafront that offers views of Burj Al Arab and The Palm Jumeirah.

Two years ago, luxury travel company Kuoni named it the second-most eye-catching beach in the world.

"Dubbed as one of Dubai's hidden gems, this beach is a must-visit for those looking for fantastic views across the water as well as a glimpse of some of Dubai's most impressive buildings, the perfect spot for taking in a sunrise or sunset," said Kuoni.

Dubai Municipality in June completed a Dh93 million ($25.3 million) revamp of its public beaches.

Al Mamzar Corniche, Jumeirah 1, Jumeirah 3 and Umm Suqeim 1 have been given a sustainable makeover, which includes new beach protection measures.

The municipality has also designated three beaches as official shorelines for night swimming.

Each of the 800-metre beaches in Jumeirah 2, Jumeirah 3 and Umm Suqeim has floodlights that illuminate the sea, allowing people to swim safely after dark.

In May, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, announced plans to develop 54km of beaches around Palm Jebel Ali, The Palm Jumeirah and Al Mamzar, as well as a new beach at Jebel Ali.

The new projects will include the development of enclosed beach areas, walkways, cafes and dining areas.

The developments are part of a plan to lengthen the emirate's beaches by 400 per cent by 2040 and increase the services provided on public beaches by 300 per cent by 2025.