Mohammed Bin Rashid Reviews Progress Of AED 3.6 Billion Hatta Development Projects And Winter Festival

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, reiterated Dubai's commitment to improving its services and infrastructure. This effort aims to strengthen its status as a top global city for living, working, and visiting. During a visit to Hatta, he highlighted the importance of youth in sustainable development.

Upon arrival in Hatta, Sheikh Mohammed was welcomed by Mattar Al Tayer from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer from the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA), among other officials. He reviewed 65 initiatives worth AED3.6 billion, with 41 already completed.

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The Hatta Winter Festival is part of Hatta Winter 2024, which runs until January 22, 2025. Launched by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, it showcases Hatta as a prime winter destination with cultural, entertainment, educational, and sports activities for all ages.

Shaima Al Suwaidi from Brand Dubai briefed Sheikh Mohammed on the initiative's focus on local projects. It aims to create opportunities for entrepreneurs in Hatta and promote members of Brand Dubai’s Proudly From Dubai network. Sheikh Mohammed praised Brand Dubai's efforts in supporting tourism through this initiative.

Sheikh Mohammed unveiled the Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls project by DEWA. This project features a waterfall from the Hatta Dam and the world’s largest mosaic panel on its slope. The mosaic honours UAE’s founding fathers and aims to boost tourism with retail spaces offered free to local Emiratis.

During his visit, Sheikh Mohammed explored successful ventures by young engineers Khalifa and Ahmed Al Bedwawi. Their GoGravity project produces electric bikes for rugged terrains and has expanded internationally since its launch in 2018.

Infrastructure Enhancements

The tour included DEWA’s projects like a 250 MW pumped-storage hydroelectric power plant and a 30 million imperial gallon water reservoir. The Shams Dubai Initiative encourages solar energy generation through rooftop photovoltaic panels connected to DEWA’s grid.

Sheikh Mohammed also visited the Al Bedwawi Honey project led by Emirati entrepreneur Mohammed bin Ham Al Bedwawi. He learned about beekeeping activities there while engaging with local citizens about ongoing development efforts.

Future Prospects for Hatta

The visit included discussions on three private sector projects: the Hatta Beach project covering 53,000 square metres with various amenities; hotel developments; and the Hatta Downtown project. These aim to transform Hatta into a year-round tourist destination.

Sheikh Mohammed reviewed 24 ongoing projects including a model school for up to 1,000 students and community spaces like the Hatta Majlis for gatherings. Other plans include homes for Emiratis, wedding halls, amphitheatres, service centres, and residential neighbourhoods.

Expanding Tourism Infrastructure

The development portfolio also includes expanding cycling trails and introducing the GCC region's first hydroelectric power station with significant capacity. A cable car will transport tourists from Hatta Dam to Um Al Nesoor Peak over scenic landscapes.

Additional projects involve enhancing the Hatta Hospital, upgrading the Sports Club facilities, and maintaining regional dams. These initiatives align with Dubai’s Vision 2030 goals for economic growth and social advancement.

With inputs from WAM