Hatta Development Projects: Comprehensive Initiatives To Enhance Community Life And Tourism
The Supreme Committee for Development of Hatta, led by Mattar Al Tayer, has finalised several projects in the area. These include the Hatta Dam Amphitheatre, a new school, and prototype housing in Makan. Additionally, a 15-kilometre mountain biking trail and a 10-kilometre hiking trail have been established, along with three farms: Strawberry Farm, Hatta Farm, and Leafy Greens Farm.
These initiatives are part of the Hatta Comprehensive Development Plan aimed at enhancing residents' quality of life. The plan focuses on improving services and positioning Hatta as a year-round destination through various projects and activities. It also aims to boost social, economic, and educational capacities in the region.
The newly constructed Hatta Dam Amphitheatre offers an accessible route to the dam's peak. Spanning 610 metres with six rest areas along its 37-metre ascent, it provides panoramic views and leisure activities like kayaking. Designed for comfort and accessibility, it preserves the natural landscape using suspended-structure techniques.
The amphitheatre adheres to Hatta’s Urban Design Guidelines with materials reflecting local character. It connects to a Mobility Centre ensuring seamless access for visitors. A pathway links it to the sustainable Hatta Waterfalls project by DEWA, featuring a mosaic mural of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum made from over 1.2 million marble pieces.
A new school built to international standards spans 18,600 square metres and accommodates over 1,000 students. It includes 44 classrooms, learning labs, sports halls, playgrounds covering 4,700 square metres, and a theatre with 416 seats. The facility also features a kindergarten section and medical clinic.
The school incorporates parking for 14 buses and 52 vehicles including electric slots. It uses sustainable solutions like solar panels generating up to 280 kilowatts saving AED160,000 annually under optimal conditions. Water taps are sensor-operated to reduce waste while solar-powered systems enhance energy efficiency.
Agricultural Advancements
Three farms have been developed: Strawberry Farm expanded its cultivation area using hydroponic technology; Leafy Greens Farm added greenhouses with integrated facilities; Hatta Farm introduced smart crop-management systems improving agricultural outputs. These efforts aim to strengthen food security through modern farming technologies.
At Strawberry Farm, vertical farming systems increased strawberry seedlings production while cooling efficiency improved with new units. Leafy Greens Farm features storage buildings and training spaces for agricultural personnel alongside a direct-sale outlet for fresh produce.
Community Initiatives
To foster social cohesion among residents, the Hatta Majlis is being developed as a community space accommodating 130 people with amenities like a multi-purpose hall and administrative offices. A wedding hall for 1,000 guests is also under construction alongside the Hatta Community Service Centre offering various services in Makan District.
Ongoing projects include building 213 homes for UAE nationals in Makan along with designing a model residential neighbourhood. Cycling tracks are being expanded while enhancements continue at Hatta Hospital and Sports Club alongside dam maintenance across the region.
With inputs from WAM

