Meraas announces tourism development projects in Hatta
First phase of development projects to launch in Q4 2018
Meraas, the Dubai-based holding company, has announced the launch of a series of projects that is aimed at boosting the tourism sector in Hatta, which will also advance the economic and social development of the area.
In a statement, Meraas said that the projects are in line with the directives from HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and the Ruler of Dubai. These directives include the 10-year Hatta Comprehensive Development Plan that was officially announced in 2016.
The developer said that 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 on surrounding communities and ecosystems.
“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,” said Abdulla Al Habbai, group chairman at Meraas.
“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 phase of these projects is scheduled to open in the fourth quarter of this year.
The first addition to Hattat’s tourism landscape will be giant ‘Hatta’ letters, located at an elevation of 450 metres, in the Hajar Mountains. An adventure centre and interactive tourism information hub will also open for visitors and tour groups.
Other new projects that will open during the first phase of development include mountain lodges, with 20 rooms, offering views of the surrounding mountains and landscapes, while visitors will also have a chance to camp at a first-of-its-kind trailers hotel concept, set amongst the mountains, on the banks of Hatta’s dams.
These developments are being kept away from local residential areas so as to preserve the privacy and lifestyle of the people of Hatta.
Meanwhile, the second phase of the project will comprise of a variety of hospitality projects and retail developments which will create further touchpoints between local, regional and international tourists, and the rich Emirati culture that exists across the UAE, Meraas said.
“Existing and future projects incorporate modern and sustainable material, with unconventional designs that each have their own character and charm,” the statement concluded.
