Inside Hatta’s Dh3.6 billion transformation – trails, farms and an amphitheatre in the mountains
New facilities reshape Hatta’s lifestyle, economy and tourism potential
DUBAI – Hatta is undergoing one of its most ambitious transformations yet, as Dubai’s mountain enclave evolves into a thriving hub for tourism, education, agriculture and community living.
Backed by a Dh3.6 billion development programme under the Hatta Comprehensive Development Plan, the region’s rugged terrain is now home to modern schools, hydroponic farming systems, dedicated mountain trails and a striking amphitheatre overlooking the turquoise Hatta Dam.
With new residential neighbourhoods, eco-friendly infrastructure and facilities that serve both residents and tourists, Hatta’s landscape and lifestyle are being reimagined for the future.
The Supreme Committee for Development of Hatta, chaired by Mattar Al Tayer, has completed a suite of development projects in the area. The works include the construction of Hatta Dam Amphitheatre, extending 610 metres, a fully serviced school, and the prototype housing unit in… pic.twitter.com/LgG0MV1Tbx
— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) November 23, 2025
Sustainable vision and community uplift
The transformation aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan and focuses on elevating quality of life, improving access to services, advancing environmental sustainability and raising Hatta’s position as a destination for year-round tourism. Officials say the plan is designed to preserve the mountain locality’s natural and cultural character while expanding economic opportunities for residents.
New amphitheatre
One of the standout additions is the Hatta Dam Amphitheatre, a 610-metre ascent designed to offer visitors direct and accessible access to the dam’s highest point. Rising 37 metres with six rest stops, the route takes around 17 minutes to walk and offers panoramic views of the dam, surrounding mountains and kayaking areas.
Built using suspended-structure techniques to protect the natural terrain, the amphitheatre features gentle gradients for safety and comfort and is fully accessible for People of Determination.
The walkway connects to the Mobility Centre at the base and leads to the Hatta Waterfalls area. The natural slope has been transformed into the world’s largest natural marble mosaic, created using more than 1.2 million pieces. Retail outlets, restaurants and cafés line the channel below the waterfalls, adding to the visitor experience.
Outdoor adventure
Adventure and wellness remain integral to Hatta’s appeal. A 15-kilometre mountain biking trail and a 10-kilometre hiking route have been introduced, offering varied terrain for nature lovers, families and cyclists.
The trails support eco-tourism and highlight the area’s growing role as Dubai’s mountain leisure destination.
Modern school
A major community uplift comes in the form of a new 18,600-square-metre school built to international standards. The facility accommodates more than 1,000 students across 44 classrooms and includes science laboratories, indoor sports halls and 4,700 square metres of playgrounds. A 416-seat theatre, medical clinic and kindergarten section form part of the integrated educational complex.
The campus features parking for 14 buses and 52 vehicles, including four EV charging slots. Sustainability is at the heart of the design, featuring 474 solar panels generating up to 280 kilowatts and saving up to Dh160,000 annually. Water-saving taps, solar-powered heating and thermal insulation help reduce energy consumption.
Alongside the new school, upgrades have been completed at Hatta 1 School, Hatta 2 School, Rashid bin Saeed School and Al Dhahra School. Improvements include modern science labs, revamped sports facilities, LED lighting, new cooling and irrigation systems, flooring renewal and a Building Management System for efficiency.
Farming technology
Three farms – Strawberry Farm, Hatta Farm and Leafy Greens Farm – have been modernised to support food sustainability and agricultural innovation. Strawberry Farm has expanded its outdoor cultivation areas and upgraded greenhouses with hydroponic and vertical farming systems, along with new cooling units and a dedicated seed-nursery facility.
Leafy Greens Farm features three hydroponic greenhouses, storage units and specialised training rooms, while a direct-sale outlet allows visitors to purchase fresh produce on-site. Hatta Farm has integrated hydroponic greenhouses with smart crop-management systems to enhance quality and improve productivity.
Community spaces and residential growth
To strengthen social cohesion, construction is under way on the Hatta Majlis, designed to host 130 people. It will include a multipurpose hall, service amenities and administrative spaces. A new wedding hall with capacity for 1,000 guests is also progressing, alongside the Hatta Community Service Centre in Makan District, which spans 2,000 square metres and includes 13 commercial units.
Construction continues on 213 homes for UAE nationals as part of a model residential neighbourhood designed to support local families and promote community stability.
Broader infrastructure upgrades
Further improvements across Hatta include enhancements to Hatta Hospital, development of Hatta Sports Club, maintenance of dams and expansion of cycling tracks. Mobility solutions are being enhanced to support both local commuters and tourists exploring the region.
According to the Supreme Committee for Development of Hatta, chaired by Mattar Al Tayer, the suite of completed and ongoing works represents Dubai’s broader drive toward balanced regional development. The projects aim to elevate wellbeing, boost tourism, and protect Hatta’s natural landscape while reshaping its identity as a sustainable and dynamic mountain community.