Dubai’s Hatta gets one of ’50 most beautiful small towns in the world’ title
22 May 2023, Arabian Business
Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, announced on Sunday that Dubai’s Hatta has been included in the prestigious list of the ’50 Most Beautiful Small Towns in the World’.
The Dubai Crown Prince called the recognition by Condé Nast Traveler “a testament” to the vision of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai.
“The recognition is a testament to @HHShkMohd’s vision for development, which is not only focused on turning Dubai into one of the world’s greatest cities but also developing the emirate’s countryside and transforming its towns into beautiful destinations. I thank the Dubai Government teams that have worked diligently towards achieving @HHShkMohd’s vision to ensure the highest standards of excellence in Dubai,” Sheikh Hamdan said.
Hatta is a picturesque mountainous town located in the Hajar Mountains of Dubai, UAE.
With its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, Hatta offers a serene escape from the bustling city life.
It is renowned for its rugged landscapes, wadis (dry riverbeds), and hiking trails, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Visitors can indulge in activities like mountain biking, rock climbing, and kayaking in Hatta Dam.
The town also features traditional mud-brick houses, a restored heritage village, and a vibrant local market, providing a glimpse into the region’s traditional Emirati lifestyle.
“It’s hard to believe that the bucolic village of Hatta is just a 90-minute drive from the megalopolis that is Dubai. The tiny town is a great place to learn about rural mountainous life in the Emirate, as well as enjoy outdoor activities like horseback riding, mountain biking, and kayaking,” the report by Condé Nast Traveler said.
Home to over 12,000 residents, Hatta is also known for housing one of the oldest hotels, the JA Hatta Fort, the report added.
Hatta transformation master plan
Hatta in Dubai is set for a significant transformation as a new tourism masterplan aims to establish it as a major tourism hub.
The plan includes the addition of a new souq, expanded cycle tracks, and an artificial beach. The initiative, launched by Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, focuses on fostering social, economic, and educational development in the region for the next two decades.
The Supreme Committee is responsible for creating and implementing the Hatta Master Development Plan, which includes an Urban Design Manual for buildings in the mountainous area.
The plan also addresses traffic management, improved mobility, support for local farmers, business opportunities, a marketplace for local products, and the redevelopment of the Hatta Heritage Village.
