Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has approved the Hatta Master Development Plan, according to official sources.
The plan is said to an integral part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan launched earlier this year to create a roadmap for enhancing infrastructure over the next two decades.
The master plan also aims to implement a series of development projects and initiatives across the emirate over the next 20 years.
The plan is also expected to transform the Hatta exclave into a local and international destination for business, investment, and tourism.
Unveiling the masterplan, Sheikh Mohammed said: “Today, we announce the launch of the Hatta Master Development Plan with an ambitious portfolio of development projects that will serve the needs of Hatta and its residents. The initiatives cover four key strategic pillars: wellbeing, tourism, sports & activities, and sustainability.”
It will be implemented as part of a five-year development plan in the initial stage, he stated.
“We have approved the formation of a Supreme Committee to oversee the development of Hatta as well as the implementation and governance of projects and initiatives, the launch of economic and tourism development programs and support for projects initiated by the youth,” he added.
The key objectives of the plan include conserving the heritage and natural environment of the area, encouraging mountain tourism and sport, and transforming Hatta into a year-round tourist destination in line with the World’s Coolest Winter campaign, said the local reports.
The plan is said to include development of a sustainable transportation system that includes a direct bus service from Dubai to Hatta that allows passengers to carry bicycles and scooters in a compartment on board.
The transportation plan also reportedly envisages the provision of ride-sharing service in cooperation with the private sector and deploying tourist coaches for accessing heritage sites such as Wadi Hub, Hatta Dam, Heritage Village, and Al-Tal Park.
It is also said to include the provision of an on-demand bus service for exploring Hatta using a smart app and a smart car rental service which enables cars to be hired on an hourly basis.