Hamdan Bin Mohammed Unveils Master Plan For Saih Al Salam Scenic Route And Rural Development In Dubai

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, has approved the master plan for the Saih Al Salam Scenic Route. This initiative aims to enhance tourism by developing five service and recreational stations. The project, a collaboration with the private sector, is part of a broader effort to improve Dubai's rural areas from 2024 to 2028, with an estimated budget of AED390 million.

The plan includes 37 projects and initiatives designed to transform Dubai's countryside into one of the most attractive destinations globally. Sheikh Hamdan stated, "The master plan for the Saih Al Salam Scenic Route and Dubai Countryside and Rural Areas Development Projects reflects the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, aiming to transform Dubai’s rural areas and countryside to be among the best, most beautiful, and enjoyable for all."

Sheikh Hamdan highlighted that these developments will significantly boost tourism. The goal is to increase visitors from half a million annually to over three million by 2040. This expansion will not only enhance Dubai's appeal as a tourist destination but also create more investment opportunities while preserving the region's unique character.

The Saih Al Salam Scenic Route will feature five tourist stations and extend cycling tracks to 156.61 kilometres. The Main Hub Station near Al Qudra Lakes will offer a traditional market and an open-air cinema. Visitors can enjoy luxury camping in marquees near activity sites along Al Qudra Lakes.

The Wildlife Station near Flamingo Lake will include hot air balloon rides offering views of wildlife and Love Lakes from above. Luxury camps and elevated walking trails connecting Love, Qudra, and Flamingo lakes are also planned. Kayak tours across these lakes will be available.

The Adventure Station near Expo 2020 Lake will feature an adventure park, fitness trails, and sandy cycling paths around Expo Lake. Budget campsites and restaurants will cater to visitors seeking adventure activities like dune bashing or desert cycling at the Desert Adventure Station.

Enhancing Rural Services

The first phase of this rural development plan introduces 18 new services for residents. These include three nurseries, seven parks, healthcare facilities such as a hospital and health centre, civil defence services, ambulance stations, social facilities like majlis halls, community centres, and more.

A socio-cultural centre in Lahbab will house a public library, art exhibition hall, traditional arts teaching centres, Bedouin crafts workshops, and a majlis in Al Awir. Healthcare facilities are being built in Lahbab 2 and Al Lisaili alongside an ambulance station in Margham.

Infrastructure Improvements

Internal roads are under construction in Margham, Lahbab, and Al Lisaili as part of traffic improvements across these areas. Shared transportation solutions aim to serve all rural regions efficiently with direct buses from main stations providing designated spaces for bicycles.

The comprehensive development plan aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan focusing on sustainable environments while retaining each area's unique identity. Programmes supporting local farmers aim to enhance Dubai's countryside as attractive tourist destinations while improving public services for residents.

This blueprint outlines projects over the next two decades ensuring that Dubai remains one of the world's top cities regarding quality of life while offering exceptional experiences for both residents and visitors alike.

With inputs from WAM