What’s On has the latest Vision2030 announcement, which revealed an African Safari in Al Ain and luxury beach club on Yas Island Abu Dhabi. 

The Garden City is getting a slice of Africa, as new plans for a major tourist attraction were unveiled today. The development will feature an African safari experience, botanical gardens and an amphitheatre.

The World Desert Oasis is one of several approved projects aimed at boosting Al Ain’s appeal as a tourist destination.

Designed to showcase wildlife in its natural environment, the space will see visitors explore communal areas including an oasis garden, botanical garden, children’s discovery area and an African World Desert.

The scheme is part of the Zoo and Aquarium Public Institution of Al Ain (ZAPIA), and will make up one zone in the ZAPIA Park.

Approved by the Abu Dhabi Urban Planning Council (UPC), the plan is just one of 76 new offers given the green light for development last year.

Other approved proposals here in the capital include Al Maryah Central. Formerly known as Sowwah Central, the mixed-use shopping and dining area will be linked to The Galleria Mall and will feature a Macy’s department store and Abu Dhabi’s first Bloomingdale’s store.

The Yas Beach Club will also be expanded. The beachfront area near the Yas Island hotels will be extended and will feature a new high-end beach club. The venue will be split into two, with the left side set to become an exclusive beach club that has restaurants, VIP cabanas, lap pool and infinity pool. While the existing club, located on the right, will remain more casual and see an additional swimming and children’s pool will be built.

“These approved projects bring us closer to achieving the goals of Abu Dhabi Vision 2030 and are very exciting for residents and tourists alike, as we look to develop and showcase Abu Dhabi Emirate not only as a great place to visit, but an attractive place to live,” said Mohamed Al Khadar, Executive Director, Urban Development & Estidama Sector, UPC.