Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Highlights Dubai’s Commitment to Sustainable Development and Hatta’s Transformation

Hatta's Transformation

Dubai, The Gulf Observer: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, reaffirmed Dubai’s commitment to continually enhancing its services, facilities, and infrastructure during a visit to Hatta today. He emphasized that Dubai strives to consolidate its position as one of the world’s best cities to live, work, and visit.

Speaking on the vital role of youth in sustainable development, Sheikh Mohammed said, “Our projects empower people, create opportunities, and ensure prosperity. Our objective is to make Hatta a global model for harmony between humans and nature, driven by innovation in sustainable development.”

During his visit, His Highness reviewed the progress of key development projects aligned with Dubai’s Vision 2030, the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, and the Dubai Social Agenda 33.

Upon his arrival, Sheikh Mohammed was welcomed by senior officials, including Mattar Al Tayer, Director-General and Chairman of the Board of Executive Directors of the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA); Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of the Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (DEWA); and other top officials.

Mattar Al Tayer briefed His Highness on the progress of 65 initiatives in Hatta, with a total value of AED 3.6 billion, 41 of which have been completed. These projects are part of the Hatta Master Development Plan, aimed at improving the quality of life, enhancing services for residents and visitors, and accelerating the region’s social, economic, and educational development.

The visit also included a tour of the Hatta Winter Festival, one of the key events of Hatta Winter 2024, launched earlier this month by H.H. Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council. Running until January 22, 2025, the festival highlights Hatta’s growing profile as a must-visit winter destination, offering a blend of cultural, entertainment, educational, and sports activities for all ages.

Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, briefed Sheikh Mohammed on the various festivals, including the Hatta Cultural Nights, Hatta Honey Festival, Hatta Agricultural Festival, and Hatta x DSF, organized by different government entities. These initiatives aim to promote local projects, create opportunities for the private sector and entrepreneurs in Hatta, and showcase offerings from the Proudly From Dubai network.

Sheikh Mohammed also unveiled the Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls project, part of the Hatta Master Development Plan. The project features a striking waterfall descending from the Hatta Dam, with the world’s largest mosaic panel on the waterfall’s slope, recognized by Guinness World Records. The 2,200 square meter mosaic, crafted from 1.2 million pieces of natural marble, honors the UAE’s founding fathers, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. The Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls project aims to boost tourism and investment in the region, with retail stores and F&B outlets offered free of charge to local Emirati citizens.