Dubai Reveals Upcoming Rural Tourism Master Plan

Dubai is an ultramodern city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) always coming up with new attractions for visitors, including the iconic Museum of the Future. While already a great attraction for tourists, leaders here are planning on developing the rural countryside outside the city.

Dubai to launch rural tourism master plan at $106 million

Leaders in Dubai are investing $106 million in a master plan for rural tourism in the desert surrounding the iconic modern city. The recently revealed plans speak of 37 projects in the surrounding countryside, according to the Deccan Chronicle.

The plans include the creation of five service and recreational stations. Through this, Dubai will offer a unique tourism experience for not only travelers visiting Dubai but also for residents. The new projects form part of a broader, ongoing effort through at least 2028 to enhance rural regions surrounding the largest city in the UAE. Moreover, the Deccan Chronicle reports that these new projects will be undertaken in partnership with the private sector.

Boosting tourism in the rural areas

According to Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council, the new initiatives are expected to significantly boost tourism in the rural areas. Meanwhile, the plans are expected to increase annual visitor numbers from 500,000 to a huge 3 million by 2040, while following the planned Saih Al Salam Scenic Route.

Among the features in the works for rural tourism are luxury desert camps, hot air balloon rides, cycling tracks, kayaking tours and more. Moreover, the preservation of the region’s natural beauty will be a major priority. Meanwhile, the projects will also increase opportunities for nature and adventure experiences.

Other benefits of the new tourism project

Titled the Dubai Countryside and Rural Areas Development Plan, the project will also promote efforts to enhance local services and attractions, while improving the quality of life for area residents. Among the improvements will be new healthcare facilities, parks and nurseries.

Moreover, Sheikh Hamdan reportedly said that these new projects will contribute to making “Dubai one of the world’s best cities in terms of quality of life and sustainability.” He said that facilities to be included are traditional markets, adventure parks, outdoor cinemas and cultural stations will further enhance Dubai’s reputation as a world-class tourist destination, while also preserving its rural environment and heritage.

Dubai, UAE in brief

Dubai is a city and emirate in the United Arab Emirates, renowned for its ultramodern skyline, luxury shopping and a lively nightlife scene. Among the wonders of the skyline is the Burj Khalifa, an 830m-tall tower. At the tower’s foot lies the Dubai Fountain, with its lights and jets are choreographed to music.

Meanwhile, the city features artificial islands just offshore, including Atlantis, The Palm, a resort offering water parks and marine animals. Moreover, as mentioned earlier, the city launched the magnificent architecture that houses the Museum of the Future.