Dubai is stepping up its tourism game with a Dhs390 million initiative to transform the emirate’s countryside into a haven for adventure and nature lovers. This ambitious project was announced on October 20, 2024, and falls under the Dubai Countryside & Rural Areas Development Plan, part of the city’s long-term vision to diversify its attractions. Over the next five years, visitors can expect everything from open-air cinemas and cycling tracks to hot air balloon rides, offering a whole new way to experience Dubai’s scenic beauty.
New Attractions to Boost Tourism
Dubai’s rural areas are about to become a lot more exciting. One of the main highlights is the creation of cycling tracks that will cover close to 100 kilometers, allowing outdoor enthusiasts to pedal through the desert while taking in stunning landscapes. This is part of the Saih Al Salam Scenic Route, a popular spot for those looking to explore Dubai’s natural side. With plans to add new tourist stations, this route will offer even more to do, including camping options and walking trails near the famous Al Qudra Lakes?.
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Exciting Experiences for Everyone
For those looking for something different, the plan includes plenty of unique activities. There’s going to be an open-air cinema near Al Qudra, where visitors can enjoy a movie under the stars. Hot air balloon rides will be available at Flamingo Lake, offering spectacular views of wildlife and the surrounding lakes. These activities are designed to attract families, adventurers, and tourists who want to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.
If you’re more into adrenaline-pumping activities, don’t worry—there’s something for you, too. The Desert Adventure Station will feature everything from dune bashing to sandboarding.
Culture Meets Adventure
What sets this project apart is the way it blends culture with adventure. The Cultural Experience Station at Al Marmoom Camel Farm will introduce visitors to traditional Emirati experiences. You can ride camels, enjoy a meal in a traditional majlis, or catch a performance at the entertainment theater there. This will give tourists a deeper understanding of the local culture while enjoying Dubai’s countryside.
Cycling and Eco-Friendly Tourism
Dubai’s push for eco-friendly activities continues with a significant focus on cycling. With an expansion of 97.86 km of cycling tracks, this initiative will bring the total track length to over 150 km, creating one of the best cycling destinations in the region. These tracks will offer stunning views of Dubai’s natural desert landscapes, and visitors can rent bikes to explore at their own pace?.
The added cycling routes not only promote sustainability but also align with Dubai’s goal of offering healthy lifestyle choices to both residents and tourists. With scenic views and well-maintained tracks, these trails are sure to become a hit with fitness enthusiasts.
A Boost to Rural Tourism
With the plan’s completion, Dubai expects to see a significant increase in rural tourism, projecting over three million visitors by 2040. These developments are part of a larger Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, which aims to diversify the city’s offerings beyond its iconic skyscrapers and luxury shopping malls. This initiative taps into the growing trend of outdoor and nature-based tourism, which is becoming increasingly popular worldwide?.
Focus on Sustainability and Community
Sustainability plays a big role in this new development. The rural areas will be developed in a way that preserves the environment while also offering world-class amenities to visitors. Local communities will benefit from job creation, with new markets and stations offering opportunities for small businesses and artisans. This will not only attract tourists but also help the local economy thrive.
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