The UAE is channelling billions of dirhams into new tourism and leisure infrastructure across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah.
In Abu Dhabi, the USD 1.7 billion Sphere Abu Dhabi is progressing on Yas Island, where Miral has also committed more than AED 12 billion (USD 3.27 billion) over five years to new projects, theme park expansions and immersive attractions under the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030. Dubai has approved an AED500 million (USD 136 million) master plan to turn Umm Suqeim Beach into an all-day leisure hub, alongside Al Layan Oasis, a one-million-square-metre environmental destination with a lake covering more than 250,000 square metres.
Khorfakkan in Sharjah has opened the AED700 million (USD 191 million) Khorfakkan Resort, comprising 573 residential units and 16 retail outlets, while work has begun on Ras Al Khaimah's Al Rams Waterfront and Boulevard, featuring a natural harbour, beach, hotel and commercial space. The pipeline reflects a wider push to diversify the UAE's visitor offering.
Gulf Economist Staff Writer