Dubai Ruler Announces Al Layan Oasis with Open-Air Cinema and Desert Camping

Dubai’s desert landscape is about to welcome a major new attraction.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has announced Al Layan Oasis Dubai, a 10 million square foot desert destination designed to offer residents and visitors a different way to experience the emirate. The project blends nature, recreation and sustainable tourism, adding yet another dimension to Dubai’s growing list of outdoor attractions.

Located around 50 minutes from the city centre, the oasis promises calm surroundings, a large lake, open-air entertainment and dedicated camping zones — all within a thoughtfully planned desert setting.

A 10 Million Sq Ft Desert Destination Takes Shape

At the heart of Al Layan Oasis, Dubai will be a 2.5 million sq ft lake. Around it, visitors will find walking trails, cycling paths, shaded areas and wide open spaces designed for relaxation.

The scale is impressive. The entire project covers 10 million sq ft and is expected to welcome around 330,000 visitors annually. Infrastructure includes 1,000 parking spaces and 14 kilometres of walking and cycling tracks. Of these, 4 kilometres will be elevated five metres above ground level, offering sweeping views across the desert and connecting to existing routes in Al Marmoom.

For Dubai residents who enjoy weekend drives out toward Al Qudra or Al Marmoom, this new addition will feel like a natural extension of those familiar outdoor escapes.

Four Unique Zones Designed for Families and Adventure Seekers

The oasis has been divided into four main parks: Hub Park, Family Park, Canyon Park and Trailer Park. In addition, there are four themed oases catering to different visitor segments.

The Camping Oasis will feature 100 caravan camping sites along with a fully equipped visitor centre. This is likely to attract residents who already enjoy seasonal camping trips but are looking for more structured facilities.

The Gathering Oasis will include an open-air cinema, amphitheatre, outdoor theatre and a food truck plaza. Outdoor movies under the desert sky are expected to become a popular winter activity, especially during the cooler months when Dubai’s outdoor calendar is packed with festivals and markets.

The Family Oasis has been designed with 28 rest areas, children’s play zones and integrated amenities. This makes it suitable for day trips, school outings and family gatherings.

The Recreation Oasis will offer retail outlets, services and a range of activities, all within a sustainable natural setting.

Together, these zones aim to balance entertainment, relaxation and nature without overwhelming the desert environment.

A New Stop Along Dubai’s Historic Caravan Route

The location of Al Layan Oasis Dubai is also symbolic. It will serve as a key stop along Dubai’s caravan route, reinforcing the emirate’s desert heritage while presenting it in a modern way.

Being roughly 50 minutes from central Dubai, the destination is far enough to feel like an escape, yet close enough for a weekend trip. For residents used to busy malls and city traffic, the promise of a tranquil setting offers a welcome contrast.

The elevated tracks connecting to Al Marmoom also strengthen Dubai’s broader plan to expand outdoor lifestyle options. In recent years, desert cycling, hiking and eco-tourism have gained popularity, particularly among families and fitness enthusiasts.

Part of the Dh4 Billion Blue and Green Roadmap

The project falls under Dubai’s Blue and Green Roadmap, with Dh4 billion allocated as part of the wider initiative.

Sheikh Mohammed highlighted that Dubai’s urban development is guided by sustainability and quality of life. The goal, he said, is to place people at the centre of planning while creating an integrated environment that balances growth with nature.

Dubai Municipality is also providing approximately 365,000 square metres of investment opportunities for the private sector within the project. This opens doors for local businesses, food concepts and tourism operators to participate in the development.

This aligns with Dubai’s long-term strategy of combining government-led infrastructure with private-sector participation to strengthen the tourism economy.

What This Means for Residents and Visitors?

Dubai is known globally for its skyscrapers and waterfront destinations. However, in recent years, there has been a clear shift toward nature-driven attractions. From desert conservation reserves to cycling tracks in Al Qudra, the city has steadily expanded its outdoor offerings.

Al Layan Oasis Dubai fits into this bigger picture.

For residents, it adds another option for weekend plans beyond malls and beaches. For tourists, it offers a curated desert experience that goes beyond traditional safaris.

Those who regularly explore Dubai’s desert attractions and eco-tourism spots will likely see this as a natural next step. It also complements the growing interest in family-friendly outdoor destinations in the UAE and sustainable travel experiences.

If executed as planned, the oasis could become one of the most talked-about things to do in Dubai during the cooler season.

The Bigger Vision

The announcement reinforces Dubai’s strategy of diversifying tourism. Rather than relying only on luxury shopping and urban landmarks, the emirate continues to invest in experiences that combine culture, heritage and sustainability.

By integrating recreational facilities, entertainment zones and natural landscapes, Al Layan Oasis positions itself as more than just a park. It is designed as a destination.

As development progresses, residents will be watching closely for opening timelines and event announcements.

For now, the message is clear. Dubai’s desert is not just a backdrop. It is becoming a destination in its own right.

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