Al Layan Oasis: What to expect from Dubai’s new desert destination
Eco-recreation space with lake, camping, trails backed by Dh4 billion green roadmap
DUBAI – Al Layan Oasis is a newly approved environmental and recreational destination in Dubai designed to transform part of the desert into a large-scale, sustainability-focused leisure hub.
Approved by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the project blends eco-tourism, outdoor activity, and community spaces within a carefully planned natural setting.
The destination combines water features, green design, and visitor infrastructure to create a desert experience centred on wellbeing, accessibility, and environmental balance.
Al Layan Oasis
Al Layan Oasis will cover one million square metres, making it one of Dubai’s larger nature-based recreational projects. At its heart will be a lake spanning more than a quarter of a million square metres, designed as the visual and environmental anchor of the site.
The oasis is located around 50 minutes from the city centre and will serve as a key stop along Dubai’s caravan route. The setting is intended to offer a calm desert environment while still providing structured visitor facilities and services.
The development supports Dubai’s model of people-first urban planning, focused on quality of life, sustainability, and efficient resource management.
Infrastructure and access
The project includes a full range of integrated infrastructure to support year-round visitors. Key features include:
- 1,000 parking spaces
- 14 km of walking and cycling tracks
- 4 km of elevated paths rising five metres above ground level
- Direct links to existing Al Marmoom route networks
The elevated trails are designed to give panoramic views across the oasis landscape, adding a scenic dimension to walking and cycling routes.
Visitor comfort measures include shaded areas and expanded native planting, both aimed at reducing heat exposure and preserving the natural desert character.
Four-zone layout
Al Layan Oasis is divided into four themed zones, each offering a different type of experience while remaining connected as one destination.
Gathering Oasis: This zone will host social and cultural activities with features such as:
- Open-air cinema
- Amphitheatre
- Food truck areas
- Event and gathering spaces
Family Oasis: Designed for family visits and day use, this section includes:
- 28 rest areas
- Children’s play zones
- Integrated visitor amenities
Camping Oasis: Built for longer stays and outdoor enthusiasts, it will offer:
- Capacity for 100 caravans
- Dedicated camping facilities
- A visitor centre focused on environmental awareness and education
Recreation Oasis: This area will combine activity and services through:
- Leisure activities
- Retail outlets
- Visitor services within a sustainable natural layout
Sustainability goals
The oasis is expected to attract around 330,000 visitors annually. Planning focuses on balancing eco-tourism growth with protection of natural systems and biodiversity.
The project is aligned with several long-term frameworks, including:
- Blue and Green Roadmap 2030
- Dubai Countryside and Rural Areas Development Plan
- Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033
- Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan
More than Dh4 billion has been allocated to related green and water projects under these initiatives.
Investment and partnerships
Dubai Municipality is allocating approximately 365,000 square metres within the project as investment opportunities. These are aimed at strengthening public-private partnerships, supporting local economic activity, and expanding service quality across the destination.