Hatta has undergone a major tourism revolution, but it’s already a great place to visit, finds Mark Setchfield on a weekend away
As I entered the enclosure, at least 15 deer of all ages surrounded me, some with full antlers, other with small stumps – all of them staring up at me as I tried to capture the moment on my camera. They were quick to feed on the tree branches I offered. This situation was all very surreal. But the reality was I hadn’t travelled to the snowy north.
I was not so far away, in fact, in Hatta – an exclave of Dubai – for a two-day getaway. The drive itself from Dubai, through the ever-changing landscape was breathtaking. As the scenery changes so much it is hard to keep your eyes on the road, from a towering city skyline to amber, windblown dunes to, finally, the beautiful dark volcanic mountains of Hatta.
Located about 134km south-east of Dubai city, close to the Omani border, this small village has quite a few surprises for such a peaceful little place relying mainly on tourism and water for its primary economy.
Historically, the area grew date palms; the fruits were used as a food source and the trees were used for construction. Now many of the old houses have been cleared to make way for modern villas, set in orderly streets. New schools and hospitals have been built, public parks have recently opened and a small shopping mall is another of the very visible changes. The dark mountains are now glowing signs of development as strips of neon light flood the night sky.
‘There’s a definite sense of community in Hatta; the hotel staff – some of who have worked there since it opened’
Those are just a few of the changes taking place as a comprehensive development plan for Hatta from the Dubai Government is well underway.
Much of the plan is aimed at improving the lives of the people who live in Hatta, with better infrastructure and employment opportunities for local entrepreneurs. In addition to more sports and culture offerings, tourism is another branch of the development, and it’s a win-win – providing work for Hatta residents and getaways for visitors and UAE residents.
Expect to see the area around Al Sheraa – a heritage area with a 200-year-old mosque – developed with pathways and resting places. For those with more energy visit the Hatta Hiking Project, featuring a 9km trail connecting the key tourist attractions of the town.
My home away from the city for the weekend was JA Hatta Fort Resort, one of the oldest hotels in the country, and close to the ancient village. The resort, with just 52 rooms, opened in the 1980s and was renovated in 2017. The staff has undertaken much of the redesign at the hotel, which is set against the Hajar Mountains, explained Deborah Thompson, the resort general manager,
‘Surrounded by mountains, gliding over 30m-deep water, getting close to nature – who wouldn’t want to be here?’
There’s a definite sense of community in Hatta; the hotel staff – some who have worked there since it opened, tell me they consider it home – are noticeably friendly and welcoming. Deborah addresses them by their first names and I sensed a warm atmosphere. The hotel itself has big plans ahead, including a helipad within the grounds of the hotel, for those who want to get away to their getaway really fast.
From the top of the 330m dam, the water looked a fresh blue colour. I headed down to get my life jacket fitted, carefully stepped into the kayak and with a gentle push, I was off. I could hear nothing but the ripple of the water as I pushed the paddle left and right. I stopped and rested for a few minutes, and thought to myself that this has to be a perfect way to start the day. Surrounded by mountains, gliding over 30m-deep water, getting close to nature – who wouldn’t want to be here?
Feeling confident, I pulled out my phone and managed to catch a heron in full flight as it leapt off some rocks, then headed to the furthest point of the lake, stopping to snap different views. Thinking I was alone on the lake, suddenly a powered dinghy zipped past me. The lake is patrolled, making sure no one is left stranded. Riding over the waves, I headed back – two hours of paddling was beginning to take its toll.
My driver, Shetty, has been working for the hotel for over 30 years and luckily for me, is a Hatta expert. When he first arrived in Hatta, there was very little there, a few shops, housing, the mosque and the hotel. He loves the Hatta way of life, and I could see why: It’s relaxed and peaceful, pollution- and traffic free. Whether you want an action-packed hiking getaway, a kayaking weekend or a tranquil resort to unwind at – or all three – I say jump in the car and head to the hills.
For more information go to Visit Hatta | JA Hatta Fort Hotel bookings
