Dubai is getting a new scenic route in rural and countryside areas to promote tourism and lifestyle. The master plan for the Saih Al Salam Scenic Route has recently been given the nod by Dubai Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum with initiatives to put Dubai’s rural side on the map. These stunning, oft-maligned areas will now become tourist attractions as the facilities for the locals will also improve here. Here’s what is coming!
What is the Saih Al Salam Scenic Route?
Saih Al Salam Scenic Route is part of the overall development of Dubai’s countryside. The project aims to showcase the area’s natural beauty and make it accessible and attractive to both residents and tourists. The route will have 97.86 kilometers of new cycling tracks in addition to over 156 kilometers of total cycling tracks in the area.
It’s not just a scenic drive. There will be five tourist stations with plenty of activities and experiences—open-air cinemas, luxury desert camping, adventure parks, and traditional markets selling local products. The idea is simple: to give you an immersive and unforgettable experience of Dubai’s hidden but amazing landscapes.
Key points from Sheikh Hamdan’s announcement
H.H. Sheikh Hamdan discussed the transformation of Dubai’s rural areas, mainly as part of Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. He mentioned the tourism number, from 500,000 visitors a year to more than 3 million in 2040. The plan will include 37 projects and initiatives amounting to AED 390 million by adding scenic routes and community facilities.
This would not only be tourists but also bring improvements to these areas for the people living there. These initiatives will introduce new public facilities like health care centers, parks, social spaces, and government services to improve the lifestyle of residents.
Below is a table summarizing the various projects and their focus areas:
| Project/Initiative | Location | Focus Area |
|---|---|---|
| Saih Al Salam Scenic Route | Al Qudra Lakes | Tourism & Recreation |
| Traditional Market & Open-air Cinema | Main Hub Station | Tourism & Entertainment |
| Luxury Desert Camping | Al Qudra | Nature & Adventure |
| Wildlife Station | Flamingo Lake | Wildlife & Activities |
| Adventure Station | Expo 2020 Lake | Adventure & Sports |
| Cultural Experience Station | Al Marmoom Camel Farm | Culture & Heritage |
| 18 New Services (Healthcare, Parks) | Various Countryside Areas | Community Development |
Main Features of the Scenic Route Stations
- Main Hub Station (Near Al Qudra Lakes): This will be a key spot along the scenic route. It will feature a traditional market showcasing locally made products and even an open-air cinema for those who want to enjoy a movie under the stars. For a more adventurous experience, visitors can also enjoy luxury camping right in the desert, surrounded by beautiful dunes.
- Wildlife Station (Near Flamingo Lake): Love wildlife? Then this station is for you. There will be activities like hot air balloon rides for breathtaking aerial views of Dubai’s beautiful wildlife lakes. Elevated walking trails will connect the three famous lakes (Love Lake, Qudra Lake, and Flamingo Lake), and kayak tours will also be available.
- Adventure Station (Near Expo 2020 Lake): Adventure lovers will get a thrill out of this one! There will be an adventure park, walking trails, cycling paths, and even an oryx platform to get up close with these beautiful animals.
- Cultural Experience Station (Near Al Marmoom Camel Farm): This station is designed to be a cultural hotspot. Visitors can ride camels, have traditional meals in a majlis, and even enjoy performances at an entertainment theatre.
- Desert Adventure Station: Dedicated solely to adrenaline-seekers, this area will host activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, and even safari tours. It’s located away from residential areas to allow for more freedom in pursuing high-energy adventures.
Development Projects for the Community
Apart from the scenic route, the new plan includes the development of 18 essential services for the residents of rural Dubai. These include:
- Three nurseries for young children
- Seven parks and open spaces to enjoy the outdoors
- Three healthcare facilities: a hospital, a health center, and an ambulance station
- Three social facilities, including majlis halls and a community center
All these projects are being undertaken with the aim of providing residents with easy access to basic services, improving the standard of living in these rural areas.
Ongoing Projects to Improve Quality of Life
The Higher Committee for Urban Planning in Dubai oversees these developments, which cover an area of 2,216 square kilometers. Some of the ongoing projects include:
- Rural Service Center and Socio-Cultural Center in Lahbab.
- Majlis Construction in Al Awir.
- Healthcare Facilities in Lahbab 2 and Al Lisaili.
- Ambulance Station in Margham.
- Civil Defense Center in Lahbab 1.
- Nurseries in Al Awir 2, Lahbab, and Al Lisaili.
- Neighborhood Parks in multiple areas.
- Internal Roads in Margham, Lahbab, and Al Lisaili.
The plan also focuses on improving transportation:
- Shared and Mass Transportation Solutions for all rural areas.
- Traffic Improvements in Lahbab, Al Awir, and Al Lisaili.
- Sustainable Transportation System: Direct buses from main stations, spaces for bicycles and scooters.
A 20-Year Vision for Rural Development
The development of Dubai’s countryside and rural areas is not a short-term project. It’s a comprehensive 20-year blueprint, with a vision that aligns with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. It’s about preserving nature while developing modern infrastructure that ensures a good quality of life for the residents.
Each rural area in Dubai will maintain its own identity, keeping its charm intact while making sure people have what they need for comfortable living. Moreover, a farmers’ support program is being put in place to help the local agricultural community thrive, providing opportunities to showcase their products to tourists and visitors.
A Win for Tourism and Investment
The scenic route and rural development projects are not just about enhancing quality of life; they’re also a big win for tourism and investment. By offering tourists something new—whether it’s an adventure station with dune bashing or a relaxing kayak tour on the lakes—Dubai hopes to become a hub for tourists looking for something beyond skyscrapers and luxury shopping malls.
Investment opportunities for locals will also open up, particularly in hospitality, recreational services, and local goods production, allowing Dubai’s rural residents to benefit directly from this influx of tourists.
Conclusion
Dubai is not just about urban luxury anymore. Sheikh Hamdan’s latest rural development plan proves that there is an emphasis on making Dubai’s countryside just as appealing. With the Saih Al Salam Scenic Route and an array of new projects, the vision is to blend nature, culture, and adventure seamlessly, offering something for every kind of traveler—from adventure enthusiasts to those who just want to relax by the lakes.
These projects will not only boost tourism but also provide real benefits for the residents, creating a balance between developing world-class tourist attractions and ensuring a high quality of life. Dubai’s rural future looks vibrant, sustainable, and full of opportunities for all.
