Here’s what you need to know about the new AED 390 million megaproject.
Another day, another multimillion megaproject that will change the local landscape as we know it. But unlike sprawling urban developments like Jebel Ali Palm and The Island, the latest venture is set to elevate Dubai’s countryside and rural areas by way of 37 projects and initiatives that will take about five years – and a price tag of AED 390 million – to complete. Part of the Dubai Countryside & Rural Areas Development Plan, these plans cater to nature and adventure lovers, so outdoorsy types have loads to look forward to. Here’s what we know so far.
The master plan for the Saih Al Salam Scenic Route has been approved by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. The plan includes the development of five service and recreational stations as well as the construction of 97.86km of cycling tracks, increasing the total track length in the area to 156.61km. Additionally, the plan expands the development of various facilities and the organization of activities and events aimed at providing an integrated tourism experience for residents and visitors alike. “This will enhance the area’s position as one of Dubai’s main tourist destinations while expanding investment opportunities for locals and preserving the region’s unique nature and identity,” said Sheikh Hamdan.
According to the plan, the Main Hub Station near Al Qudra Lakes will include the establishment of a traditional market featuring several shops selling local products that are typical of rural areas alongside an open-air cinema near Last Exit, offering the unique experience of watching movies in an untouched setting. The station will also feature luxury marquees, allowing visitors to camp in the heart of the desert near the activity sites along Al Qudra Lakes. The station will also include the development of public facilities to accommodate the large number of visitors and provide the necessary services.
The Wildlife Station, located near Flamingo Lake, will soon boast hot air balloons, allowing visitors to enjoy views of the wildlife and take in the Love Lakes from above. Also on the roster? Luxury camps and elevated walking trails that will connect the three lakes (Love, Qudra, and Flamingo), as well as kayak tours across them. The Adventure Station, located near Expo 2020 Lake, will include an adventure park near the Oryx platform, as well as walking and fitness trails. A sandy trail for cycling and walking will be added around Expo Lake, along with budget camps and restaurants.
Elsewhere, the Cultural Experience Station, located near the camel farm in Al Marmoom, will provide a traditional majlis and an entertainment theatre at the camel farm, where visitors can ride camels, explore the desert, and dine on traditional meals. At the Desert Adventure Station, meanwhile, a fully integrated area for adventure and desert sports will be developed away from residential areas. This will allow visitors to enjoy adrenaline-fuelled outdoor activities like desert cycling, dune climbing, sandboarding, and safari tours.
The first phase of the rural and countryside plan includes the provision of several new services for residents of areas such as Margham, Lahbab, and Al Lisaili — parks, public libraries, art exhibition halls, and centers for teaching Bedouin crafts included. Several programs designed to support farmers are also in the works, creating opportunities for the sale of their products and boosting the city’s rural areas as tourist destinations. Win-win.
DSCVR: Dubai Countryside & Rural Areas Development Plan. Dubai. @dubai2040urbanmasterplan
