Dubai: His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister, and Ruler of Dubai, has approved the Al Layan Oasis development project, a new environmental and recreational destination in the emirate. The project spans one million square metres and includes a lake covering over a quarter of a million square metres, aiming to highlight the beauty of the desert environment while emphasizing sustainability and quality of life for residents and visitors.
According to Emirates News Agency, the project is part of the Blue and Green Roadmap 2030, recently launched by Dubai Municipality. This initiative is part of Dubai's broader vision to create an urban environment that balances sustainability, liveability, and quality of life, supported by projects valued at over AED4 billion. Additionally, the project complements the Dubai Countryside and Rural Areas Development Plan, aiming to preserve natural landscapes while enhancing the lives of residents and creating a unique tourism experience.
Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director-General of Dubai Municipality, stated that the project is a new milestone in creating integrated natural environments focused on people, wellbeing, and quality of life. He emphasized that the project reflects Dubai's vision of investing in nature as a core part of wellbeing and quality of life. It demonstrates Dubai Municipality's commitment to developing sustainable, world-class environmental destinations, with people, families, and communities at the centre of urban development.
Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality, noted that the project is designed to enhance the desert environment experience through high-quality facilities and advanced infrastructure. The development includes 1,000 parking spaces, 14 km of walking and cycling tracks, and 4 km of elevated paths offering panoramic views of the oasis.
The oasis will serve as a key stop along Dubai's caravan route, located about 50 minutes from the city centre. It is expected to attract 330,000 visitors annually, balancing eco-tourism development with natural system preservation. Plans include expanding native planting and shaded areas to enhance visitor comfort and support environmental sustainability.
Al Layan Oasis will contribute to physical and mental wellbeing, encourage healthy lifestyles, and strengthen social cohesion. It will adopt resource-efficient and eco-friendly solutions, becoming a valuable addition to Dubai's network of parks and public destinations. The project is divided into four main zones: Gathering Oasis, Family Oasis, Camping Oasis, and Recreation Oasis, each offering unique features and activities.
Through this project, Dubai Municipality is providing approximately 365,000 square metres of investment opportunities to strengthen public-private partnerships and stimulate the local economy. Al Layan Oasis represents a strategic addition to Dubai's environmental destinations, supporting a healthy urban environment that encourages active lifestyles and community interaction.