Dubai‘s crown prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed has approved a strategy to develop the emirate’s rural areas and boost tourism.
Sheikh Hamdan approved 37 projects, set for completion by 2028, to enhance Dubai’s countryside and develop tourist attractions.
The estimated cost of these projects, part of the ‘Dubai Countryside & Rural Areas Development Master Plan’ is AED 390 million ($106m).
Sheikh Hamdan said the plan will “transform Dubai’s rural areas and countryside to be among the best, most beautiful, and enjoyable for all”.
“This contributes to solidifying the emirate’s position as an ideal destination to live and work, as well as a preferred attraction for visitors from around the world,” he added.
The plan provides “all necessary services, facilities, and requirements for residents and visitors to these areas, preserving the environment, and offering unique destinations for nature and adventure lovers, which strengthens Dubai’s position as a tourist destination offering integrated and exceptional experiences”, Sheikh Hamdan said.
The first phase of the master plan includes new services for residents, like healthcare facilities and nurseries. Future projects include an art exhibition hall, and centres for teaching traditional arts and Bedouin crafts.
Sheikh Hamdan also unveiled a master plan for the Saih Al Salam Scenic Route, a 100-kilometre road for vehicles and bicycles, to promote desert tourism and offer investment opportunities for local communities.
Saih Al Salam Scenic Route master plan
The Saih Al Salam Scenic Route project is expected to boost tourist numbers from around half a million annually to more than three million visitors by 2040. It includes the development of five “tourist stations” and the construction of 97.86 kilometres of cycling tracks.
The main hub station will house a traditional market, an open-air cinema, and camping facilities. The wildlife station will offer hot air balloons and elevated walking trails.
The adventure station will feature an adventure park, while the cultural experience station will boast an entertainment theatre. Finally, the desert adventure station will be an integrated area for activities like dune bashing and climbing, and sandboarding.
