This is such a heartwarming initiative…

Dubai hopes to be one of the world’s most disability-friendly cities by 2020, and is already making some great strides.

Earlier this year, the government installed new signs on seven of the city’s beaches, pointing out ramps that can be easily accessed by those in wheelchairs.

But rather than describing them in the usual way as “disabled access”, the new signs read: “Beach access for people of determination”. Pretty cool, right?

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Now, Dubai Municipality has taken things to the next level by introducing a “Water Chair Service” for people of determination and the elderly at Al Mamzar Beach Park.

The special floating three-wheeled chairs can be used both on sand and in the sea, so those who might otherwise struggle to get in the water can enjoy a refreshing dip.

Oh, and while entry to Al Mamzar Beach Park is usually Dhs5 per person and Dhs30 per car, entry is free for people of determination (you can find all the details like opening hours and facilities on the Dubai Municipality website here).

The initiative is just one of a number of services Dubai Municipality has been developing for wheelchair users. This video shows plans for more ramps around the city, better parking facilities, and even special playground equipment for wheelchair-bound children.

A National Strategy to Empower People With Disabilities was launched by HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum earlier this year.

The vice president of the UAE and ruler of Dubai said the strategy was launching in order to turn the UAE into a more “inclusive society”, using “policies and services” to make that happen.

We love that the government is taking all members of society into consideration… after all, everyone should be able to enjoy a nice day at the beach.

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