Dubai-based holding company Meraas has announced a series of major projects aimed at boosting the tourism sector in Hatta and advancing the social and economic development of the area.

Developments are aligned with the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, which includes the 10-year Hatta Comprehensive Development Plan that he officially announced in 2016.

Projects have been developed based on strategic plans managed by Meraas, with both design and construction adhering to the highest global and sustainability standards. Building materials were selected to complement and enhance the natural environment without compromising the geological integrity of the area or impacting the surrounding communities and ecosystems.

Positioning Hatta as a destination for eco-tourism in the region has also been a major objective, and the first phase of these projects is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of this year.

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,” he added.

The first addition to Hatta’s tourism landscape will be giant ‘Hatta’ letters located at an elevation of around 450 m up in the Hajar Mountains, which provide the picturesque town with its stunning backdrop and represent the gateway to exploring the area. An adventure centre and interactive tourism information hub will also open, creating further links between visitors, tour guides and the people of Hatta.

Other new projects that will open in the first phase of the development include idyllic mountain lodges, with 20 rooms, offering blissful views of the surrounding mountains and landscape in a tranquil retreat filled with opportunities to relax.

Visitors to Hatta will also have the chance to camp at a first-of-its kind trailers hotel concept set amid the picturesque mountains on the banks of the charming Hatta dams.

Developments are being kept away from local 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 developments that are set to create further touchpoints between local, regional and international tourists, and the rich Emirati culture that exists across the UAE.

Existing and future projects incorporate modern and sustainable material, with unconventional designs having their own character and charm. – TradeArabia News Service