Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has approved the Al Layan Oasis development project, a destination focused on environment use and recreation in the emirate.
The project covers one million square metres and includes a lake exceeding a quarter of a million square metres. It is intended to present the desert setting while supporting sustainability goals and quality of life for residents and visitors.
“Dubai’s urban development is driven by a commitment to creating a sustainable environment and the highest quality of life for people. He added that this is achieved through an integrated model that places people at the centre of planning by combining high-quality infrastructure, efficient services, and responsible resource management, enabling Dubai to consolidate its position among the world’s leading future-ready cities,” Sheikh Mohammed said in a statement.
Dubai Ruler approves Al Layan Oasis project under Blue and Green Roadmap 2030
Al Layan Oasis is part of a package of initiatives under the Blue and Green Roadmap 2030, launched by Dubai Municipality. The roadmap focuses on nature investment to support wellbeing and forms part of a wider vision to balance sustainability, liveability, and quality of life.
The roadmap is supported by projects with a combined value exceeding AED4 billion.
The project supports the Dubai Countryside and Rural Areas Development Plan, which aims to protect natural landscapes while providing services and facilities that support residents and tourism across the emirate.
It also aligns with the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033 and the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan.
Four zones planned across Al Layan Oasis in Dubai
Director General of Dubai Municipality, Eng. Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, said the project marks progress in delivering natural environments focused on people and wellbeing.
He said the project reflects Dubai’s approach to using environmental assets to generate social and economic value while maintaining the desert setting.
“Al Layan Oasis 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. In every project, we place people, families, and communities at the centre of urban development, supporting Dubai’s ambition to be the best city to live in and a leading global destination for environmental tourism and quality of life,” he added.
Bader Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality, said the project is designed to change how visitors interact with the desert setting through facilities, infrastructure, and partnerships with the private sector.
The project includes integrated infrastructure and 1,000 parking spaces. It features 14 kilometres of walking and cycling tracks, including four kilometres of elevated paths rising five metres above ground level. These paths connect with routes in Al Marmoom.
The site is located about 50 minutes from the city centre and will serve as a stop along Dubai’s caravan route.
Al Layan Oasis to attract 330,000 visitors annually in Dubai
The oasis is expected to attract 330,000 visitors each year. The plan seeks to balance tourism activity with protection of natural systems.
The project includes expanded native planting and shaded areas to support visitor comfort and sustainability goals.
The development aims to support physical and mental wellbeing, promote active lifestyles, and support social interaction. It follows environmental standards and applies resource-efficient solutions.
Al Layan Oasis will form part of Dubai’s network of parks and public destinations, offering a desert setting that combines recreation, culture, and nature use.
The project is divided into four zones:
- The Gathering Oasis will include an open-air cinema, an amphitheatre, food truck spaces, and event areas.
- The Family Oasis will include 28 rest areas, play spaces for children, and shared amenities.
- The Camping Oasis will provide space for 100 caravans and a visitor centre focused on environmental awareness and education.
- The Recreation Oasis will include activity areas, retail outlets, and services within a natural setting.
Dubai Municipality offers 365,000 sqm for investment at Al Layan Oasis
Dubai Municipality is offering about 365,000 square metres for investment through the project as part of its public-private partnership framework.
The aim is to support economic activity and ensure services and experiences for visitors.
Al Layan Oasis adds to Dubai’s portfolio of nature-based destinations and reflects the municipality’s focus on quality of life, biodiversity protection, and desert conservation, while encouraging daily use of parks and public facilities.
