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Dubai Opens Hatta’s First Sand Equestrian Track to Boost Tourism

Dubai Opens Hatta’s First Sand Equestrian Track to Boost Tourism
  • PublishedSeptember 9, 2025

Dubai Municipality has opened the first sand equestrian track in Hatta. This new facility gives horse riders a special experience surrounded by the area’s rocky mountains and desert views. The track is 2.54 kilometres long and three metres wide. It has been designed for both beginners and professionals, making horse riding safer, easier, and more exciting in the heart of nature.

A Big Step for Hatta’s Tourism Vision

The launch of the equestrian track is part of the plans of the Supreme Committee to Oversee the Development of Hatta. The goal is to turn Hatta into a major centre for tourism, leisure, and sports.

Dubai has been working to create projects that improve quality of life and attract more visitors. This track is one of those projects. It helps Hatta become a destination where nature, sport, and culture meet.

Hatta is already known for its mountains, hiking routes, and water activities. Now, with this track, horse riding will be added as another attraction for tourists and residents.

Honouring UAE’s Equestrian Heritage

Horses hold a special place in Emirati history. They represent strength, tradition, and identity. By creating this track, Dubai is preserving this heritage while offering a modern facility for today’s riders.

Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality, said the track was built to meet international standards. He explained that the project gives horse lovers a safe way to enjoy Hatta’s mountains while celebrating the tradition of horsemanship.

This means visitors can enjoy horse riding not only as a sport but also as a cultural experience.

Safe, Modern, and Scenic

The Hatta sand track has been built with top safety and quality in mind. Its surface is made for horse comfort and rider safety.

As riders move along the 2.54-kilometre path, they will see wide desert views and tall mountains. The trail is designed for both relaxed riding and more adventurous training.

People can bring their own horses or rent them locally. This gives flexibility to both residents and tourists. It also supports local stables and small businesses.

Boosting Tourism and Local Economy

The equestrian track is more than just a riding facility. It is expected to attract more tourists to Hatta. Officials say it will help increase investment in sectors like hospitality, retail, and leisure.

Small and medium businesses will benefit from the visitors who come to try the track. Horse rental services, cafés, restaurants, and hotels can all see more customers.

Dubai’s tourism sector is a key part of its economy. This new facility shows how the city continues to add fresh attractions that support growth and bring in more visitors from around the world.

Hatta’s Rising Global Profile

Hatta has become one of Dubai’s most popular outdoor destinations in recent years. Projects like eco-resorts, mountain bike trails, and kayaking have already put the area on the map.

The equestrian track makes Hatta even more appealing. It adds a unique activity that combines adventure with heritage. This gives the region an edge in attracting international travelers looking for authentic experiences.

Hatta’s location, close to Dubai, makes it easy to visit. The new track creates another reason for tourists to include Hatta in their travel plans.

Horse Riding as a Lifestyle

Horse riding is not just about sport. It is also about health and lifestyle. Riders often talk about how being with horses helps reduce stress, improve focus, and build confidence.

In Hatta, horse riding becomes an even more special activity because of the beautiful landscape. The combination of wellness, nature, and tradition makes it a memorable experience.

Equestrian tourism is growing around the world. Dubai is now offering a premium version of this experience in Hatta, where riders can enjoy both comfort and culture.

Part of Dubai’s Tourism Vision 2030

Dubai aims to be one of the world’s most visited cities by 2030. Projects like the Hatta equestrian track fit perfectly with this goal.

Tourism in Dubai is not only about shopping malls and skyscrapers. It is also about outdoor adventures, culture, and wellness. The equestrian track adds another layer to this strategy.

The facility will also support other businesses in the tourism chain, such as hotels, transportation, and local food outlets. This shows how one project can have a wide impact across many industries.

Keeping Heritage Alive

Horses have always been part of Emirati life. They were trusted companions in the desert and remain an important part of celebrations and festivals.

By opening this track, Dubai is keeping this connection strong. It allows residents and visitors to practice horsemanship in a safe and enjoyable way. It also passes this tradition on to younger generations.

At the same time, the track is built with modern design and safety in mind, proving that heritage and innovation can work together.

Plans for the Future

The current track covers 2.54 kilometres. This is just the first phase. There may be future expansions that will make it longer and add more facilities.

If larger trails, equestrian clubs, or competitions are added, Hatta could become a global destination for horse riding events. International riders, trainers, and horse lovers would then see Hatta as a key stop on the equestrian map.

Such plans would also bring more tourism, media attention, and international investment to the region.

A World-Class Experience in the Mountains

The sand equestrian track is already considered one of the top facilities in the region. It gives horse riders a chance to connect with nature, explore stunning views, and experience a sport that is part of the UAE’s culture.

For residents, the track is a new place to enjoy leisure and fitness. For visitors, it is a chance to explore Dubai’s natural side. And for Dubai, it is another achievement in its journey to be a global leader in tourism and quality of life.

Hatta now offers even more reasons for people to visit. With its growing list of attractions, it is becoming one of the UAE’s most exciting adventure destinations.

Written By
Arshiya