Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum approved a comprehensive and major plan to develop the emirate’s countryside into touristic destinations.
The development plan includes a first-of-its-kind, 100km scenic route, natural reserves and areas to practise desert sports.
Route 1 will include dedicated roads for vehicles, and special paths for desert bicycles and electric scooters to connect tourist attractions.
“Dubai today is the most beautiful city in the world. We now seek to make the rural areas of Dubai some of the most beautiful and enjoyable places,”
HH Sheikh Mohammed Tweeted
The plan will bring direct economic returns for the people residing in these areas. Route 1 will include facilities to provide a “Holistic Tourism Experience”. It aims to increase the number of activities, events and services that promote desert tourism, Ruler of Dubai Stated.
Known as Saih Al Salam Scenic Route, or simply Route 1, it will include dedicated roads for vehicles, and special paths for desert bicycles and electric scooters to connect tourist attractions. -photo credit to the owner-
The Dubai Countryside and Rural Areas Development Master Plan spans an area of 2,216sqkm. The project will have hot air balloons, helicopter and air taxi tours that let visitors soar over the stunning network of manmade lakes in Al Qudra. Visitors will also get to skydive over the Expo and Love Lakes. And a chance to see the ancient sites of Saruq Al Hadid and Al Marmoom Heritage Village.
The Supreme Committee for Urban Planning will be in charge of implementing and governing the projects. An Initiative project to protect the natural reserves and archaeological sites; support farmers and local products; and create investment opportunities for inhabitants.
The Project will helps and support farmers by offering them opportunities to sell their local products and it will establish a distinct identity for each district.
The master plan seeks to preserve nature reserves including Lehbab, Margham, Al Marmoom, Al Lisaili, Al Faqaa and Al Aweer. It aims to offer a unique touristic experience and transform each area into a distinct destination.