Hatta the 'Highlands of Dubai' in new tourism campaign

City cycling and extended mountain biking trails planned for the mountainous region

Hatta has been called The Highlands of Dubai in a new tourism campaign. Photos: Dubai Media Office

Cycling and mountain biking trails are being added across Hatta.

Hatta Souq will be a platform for farmers and other residents to sell their produce.

New public and shared mobility services including express buses from Dubai and lanes for electric scooters are part of the plans.

Plans for the much-anticipated Hatta Beach Project are also taking shape.

Hatta has been called “The Highlands of Dubai” in a tourism campaign that began on Sunday.

Designed to highlight the cooler climes and natural beauty of the mountainous exclave, the campaign is part of the World’s Coolest Winter campaign from Dubai Tourism.

New developments at Hatta are designed to enhance the well-being of residents and creating unique experiences for visitors.

New cycling trails and biking trails are being added in Hatta. Photo: Dubai Media Office

The latest pictures released by Dubai Media Office highlight some of the developments happening in the city as part of the Hatta Master Development Plan.

These include plans for Hatta Souq, a space that will house shops selling local farm produce, cafes, restaurants and entertainment spaces.

As part of the tourism plan announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, last year, 11.5 kilometres of cycling trails have been developed, stretching from Hatta bus station to Hatta Dam.

Known for its greenery, the region’s natural landscape has been boosted by the addition of more than 13,000 indigenous trees.

“The greenery will enhance the scenic landscape surrounding the cycling tracks and roads,” said Mattar Al Tayer, Commissioner General for the Infrastructure, Urban Planning and Well-Being Pillar and Chairman of the Supreme Commitee to Oversee the Development of Hatta.

Enhanced public and shared mobility solutions have been introduced to help make getting around Hatta easier. They include an express bus service from Dubai and lanes for electric scooters.

Additions include a 6km cycling track in the city, and a 5.5km mountain biking path passing through Wadi Hub and Hatta’s archaeological sites.

The Hatta Beach Project aims to transform the area into a year-round tourist destination.

Planning is also under way for the much anticipated Hatta Beach Project. Designed as a year-round tourist destination, it will be home to the Crystal Lagoon — an artificial lake with a beach area where leisure and entertainment facilities will attract travellers, alongside shoreline activities and watersports.

Surrounded by the Hajar mountains, Hatta’s title as The Highlands of Dubai is designed to boost the region’s appeal to travellers.

As well as pointing out its outdoor offerings — including kayaking, horse-riding and trekking — the campaign will delve into the history of the region, which was known as Al Hajareen in ancient times.

A focus will be on Hatta Heritage Village, which is being redeveloped. It consists of about 30 buildings, including reconstructed huts and buildings designed to resemble a traditional village in the region.

Other historical sites, local customs and Hatta’s scenic natural landscapes and parks will also feature in the campaign.

Dubai's Hatta reopens for season five with plenty of outdoor adventure