This summer, Dubai’s Jumeirah 1 public beach is making waves with an irresistible offer: free swimming lessons! From 7 am to 8 am every weekend, residents can get their feet wet in the crystal-clear waters, all while giving back to the community. All you need to do is roll up your sleeves and join in the beach clean-up. It’s a win-win—learn to swim and help keep the beach pristine!
Swimming Lessons With A Side of Community Spirit
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The initiative, launched by Filipino expat Bimbo Calitis, is a brilliant fusion of swimming education and environmental stewardship. Calitis, the founder and CEO of Amphibious Swim School, began this programme two years ago. Each one-hour session is followed by 15 minutes of beach clean-up. It’s like a fitness class with a purpose—get those strokes perfected while making the beach sparkle!
No matter your age or skill level, the free lessons cater to everyone—from beginners who are just dipping their toes in, to seasoned swimmers looking to refine their techniques. Since launching last month, the programme has drawn a hearty crowd, and it’s set to run through September. Last year, over 100 participants joined, and some even became peer instructors themselves, passing on their newfound skills.
Calitis’s Beachside Mission
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Calitis, who spends most of his time at the beach (it’s practically his second home), has two driving forces behind this initiative. First, he’s passionate about keeping his beach clean. Second, as a former lifeguard, he’s witnessed too many drowning incidents and wants to make swimming lessons accessible to everyone, particularly since enrolment fees can be steep.
He’s committed to ensuring every participant progresses from a beginner to an advanced swimmer. For the lessons, Calitis provides all necessary equipment—floats, kickboards, safety rings, and pull buoys. All learners need to bring are their goggles, a comfortable swimsuit, water, sunblock, and, of course, a willingness to swim and clean.
How To Participate?
Ready to make a splash? Contact Bimbo Calitis through Amphibious Swim School’s social media or website. Here’s what you need to know:
When: Saturdays and Sundays, 7 am to 8 am
Where: Jumeirah 1 public beach, near La Mer South
In just a few weeks, beginners can master basic freestyle swimming, and the added beach clean-up makes the learning experience even more rewarding. So, grab your gear, head to Jumeirah 1, and dive into a summer of swimming and community spirit!
Cover Image Courtesy: Bimbo Calitis/Instagram
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