New development plans aimed at boosting tourism and positioning the picturesque location as Dubai’s nature and culture destination

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 10 July 2018: Meraas has today announced a series of major projects aimed at boosting the tourism sector in Hatta and advancing the social and economic development of the area. The move aligns with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which include the 10-year Hatta Comprehensive Development Plan that he officially announced in 2016.

Positioning Hatta as a destination of eco-tourism in the region, the first phase is scheduled to open in Q4 2018. Projects are based on strategic plans managed by Meraas, with both design and construction adhering to the highest global sustainability standards. Building materials were selected to complement and enhance the natural environment without compromising the geological integrity of the area or negatively impacting the surrounding communities and ecosystems.

His Excellency Abdulla Al Habbai, Group Chairman at Meraas, said: “Hatta is known for its beautiful scenery – mountains, lakes, wadis, farms, dams and fresh air and the development of eco-tourism demonstrates our commitment at Meraas to implementing the vision of our wise leadership by creating economic opportunities for young people, local businesses and entrepreneurs in Hatta.”

“Supporting and enhancing the integration of leisure, hospitality, tourism and transportation is key to transforming this highly popular destination into a world-class area that offers families a diverse leisure experience.”

“We have worked to establish effective partnerships between Meraas and the people of Hatta in order to ensure projects meet the aspirations of present and future generations and that the area is equipped to receive more visitors to historical, social and cultural heritage sites, as well as indulge in a distinctive shopping experience of handicrafts and agriculture products and enjoy authentic Emirati cuisine in Hatta.”

The first addition to Hatta’s tourism landscape will be a giant ‘Hatta’ sign located at an elevation of around 450 metres in the Hajar Mountains that provide the picturesque town with a stunning backdrop and serve as the gateway to exploring the area. An adventure centre and an interactive tourism information hub will also open, reinforcing the links between visitors, tour guides and the people of Hatta.

The first phase of the development also includes an idyllic mountain lodge with 20 rooms that will offer a tranquil retreat filled with blissful views of the surrounding landscape and plentiful opportunities to relax.

Visitors to Hatta will also have the chance to camp at a first-of-its-kind trailers hotel on the banks of the charming Hatta dam.

The developments are located away from residential areas to preserve the privacy and lifestyle of the people of Hatta. The second phase of the project comprises a variety of additional hospitality and retail facilities that are set to create further touchpoints between local and international tourists and the rich Emirati culture.

Existing and future projects incorporate state-of-the-art sustainable materials with unconventional designs boasting a distinctive character and charm.

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About Meraas
Meraas is dedicated to making Dubai and the UAE better for people to live, work and play in. We design for a diverse mix of people to stimulate a creative urban culture where the next generation of ideas, businesses and communities can take root. Our investments ensure a better future for generations to come and extend across different sectors including food, retail, leisure, hospitality, health and education. Our destinations, which include City Walk, The Beach, Boxpark, Last Exit, The Outlet Village, Kite Beach, Al Seef, La Mer, The Yard and Bluewaters, are open places for communities to socialise, explore, learn, play, create and innovate.

For media enquiries, please contact:
APCO Worldwide                                                                                      Meraas
Reem Abi Ali                                                                                            Mathilda Saad
Mobile: +971 55 964 8763                                                                          Mobile: +971 55 699 9890
Email: rabiali@apcoworldwide.com                                                           Email: mathilda.saad@meraas.ae

© Press Release 2018

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