New Hatta upgrades announced: Amphitheatre at dam’s highest point; strawberry farm expanded

Hatta, Dubai’s picturesque mountain retreat, has unveiled a series of transformative upgrades aimed at enriching the lives of residents and attracting more visitors. Among the standout developments is the newly constructed Hatta Dam Amphitheatre, perched at the dam’s highest point. This 610-metre structure, built using suspended techniques to preserve the natural landscape, offers breathtaking views of the turquoise waters below. The amphitheatre features a gentle 17-minute ascent with six rest points, ensuring accessibility for all, including People of Determination. Additionally, the dam’s slope has been transformed into a stunning mosaic mural of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, crafted from over 1.2 million pieces of natural marble—a world record.

Complementing the amphitheatre is the expansion of Hatta’s agricultural offerings. The Strawberry Farm has seen significant upgrades, including expanded outdoor cultivation areas, enhanced cooling systems, and a dedicated seed-nursery facility. Meanwhile, the Leafy Greens Farm now boasts three hydroponic greenhouses, integrated storage areas, and a direct-sale outlet for fresh produce. These enhancements not only boost local agriculture but also provide visitors with unique farm-to-table experiences.

Education and community facilities have also received substantial attention. A new 18,600-square-metre school, built to international standards, has been completed. The state-of-the-art facility accommodates over 1,000 students and includes 44 classrooms, science labs, indoor sports halls, and a 416-seat multipurpose theatre. Maintenance and upgrades have also been carried out at four existing schools in the area.

Further enriching community life, the Hatta Majlis, a multipurpose hall designed to host 130 people, is nearing completion. A new wedding hall with a capacity of 1,000 guests and the Hatta Community Service Centre, featuring 13 commercial units, are also in development. Other ongoing projects include the construction of 213 homes for UAE nationals, the expansion of cycling and hiking trails, and enhancements to Hatta Hospital and Sports Club.

These initiatives are part of a broader push to elevate Hatta as a premier destination for both residents and tourists, blending natural beauty with modern amenities and sustainable practices.