13,000 trees have been planted, work has commenced on a new Hatta Souk, and a 11.5km cycling track has been added…

Hatta is one of our favourite spots for escaping the city. With its craggy mountains, lush greenery and shimmering lake, it’s a natural beauty that feels worlds away from Dubai. And as part of the Hatta development project outlined by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Hatta is set to get a string of new attractions.

Leading the Hatta Development project is Mattar Al Tayer, who has shared an update on the works that have already been completed to enhance Hatta, further positioning it as a top Dubai tourism destination.

In a bid to make Hatta even more green, some 13,000 indigenous trees have been planted in different areas. As well as enhancing the natural landscape, it looks to support local farmers. Those who already farm the lands in Hatta will be provided with “fertilisers, seeds and seedlings, and training to develop the skills, craftsmanship and project management capabilities necessary for taking advantage of business and investment opportunities,” Al Tayer said.

For those looking to get out and explore, an additional 11.5km cycling track has been added, which stretches from Hatta bus station to Hatta Dam, perfect for a scenic cycle. This will be extended a further 6km in the city, and a 5,5km mountain bike track will be added to connect the transportation stations at Al Tallah Park and Al Wadi Park, passing through Hatta’s archaeological sites and Wadi Hub.

A new Hatta Souq is also under construction, where farmers and local residents will be able to sell their products, including local vegetables, fruits and crafts. There will also be cafes and restaurants for visitors to enjoy. The development of Hatta Beach is also under way, one of the star parts of the Hatta Master Development Plan, which will position Hatta as a year-round destination. The project includes the creation of a Crystal Lagoon, an artificial lake with a beach area.

Also in the pipeline, is the redevelopment of the Hatta Heritage Village, which opened in 2001. Built using mountain stones, mud and palm trunks, it was designed to resemble an ancient Emirati village, and will reopen as a beacon of history and culture, where visitors can discover the traditions and customs of Hatta.

These projects are all part of the Hatta Master Development Plan, which Sheikh Mohammed launched in October 2021, which will see Hatta developed over the next 20 years with new hotels, attractions and infrastructure to make it an appealing destination for business and leisure.