Dubai Unveils Ambitious Plans for Countryside Development
Dubai has recently announced an impressive array of 37 new projects and initiatives aimed at transforming the emirate into a premier destination for adventure and nature enthusiasts. With a budget of Dhs390 million, these plans were unveiled on Sunday, October 20, under the directives of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, as part of the Dubai Countryside & Rural Areas Development Plan.
Set to be fully realized over the next five years, this initiative will introduce a myriad of new attractions designed to enhance tourism in the region. Highlights include a vibrant traditional market and an open-air cinema at Al Qudra, exhilarating hot air balloon rides at Flamingo Lake, and an expansive adventure park near the Expo 2020 Lake. These developments will also significantly enhance the 100km Saih Al Salam Scenic Route, which will feature five new tourist stations and an impressive 97.86km of cycling tracks, bringing the total length of cycling paths to 156.61km.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid envisions a breathtaking transformation of the Dubai countryside, aiming to make it one of the “most beautiful and enjoyable” places for all visitors. The comprehensive master plan received the final approval from Sheikh Hamdan bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, and encompasses a portfolio of projects and initiatives designed to develop the rural areas and countryside of Dubai from 2024 to 2028. It is projected that these plans will increase tourism numbers along the Saih Al Salam Scenic Route from the current figures of approximately half a million to over three million visitors by 2040.
The Five New Visitor Stations on the Saih Al Salam Scenic Route
- Main Hub Station: Located near Al Qudra Lakes, this station will feature a traditional market showcasing local products typical of the rural areas, an open-air cinema near the Last Exit, and luxury marquees that allow visitors to camp in a stunning desert setting.
- Wildlife Station: Situated near Flamingo Lake, this station will offer various facilities and activities, including hot air balloon rides that provide breathtaking views of the local wildlife and the picturesque Love Lakes. Visitors can also enjoy luxury camping experiences and elevated walking trails connecting Love, Qudra, and Flamingo Lakes.
- Adventure Station: Found near Expo 2020 Lake, this station will host an adventure park close to the Oryx platform, along with walking and fitness trails. Budget-friendly camping options and restaurants will also be available for visitors.
- Cultural Experience Station: Located near a camel farm in Al Marmoom, this station will feature a traditional majlis and an entertainment theatre where visitors can enjoy camel rides, explore the desert, and indulge in traditional meals.
- Desert Adventure Station: This area will be dedicated to adventure and desert sports, situated away from residential zones. Visitors will have the opportunity to partake in thrilling outdoor activities such as dune bashing, desert cycling, dune climbing, sandboarding, and exhilarating desert safari tours.
The overall Dubai Countryside and Rural Areas Development Plan is a visionary initiative designed to span the next 20 years, aligning with the broader goals of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
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