Hatta is located nearly 130 km from central Dubai, in the United Arab Emirates. It is located high in the Hajar Mountains. Formerly an Omani territory, its ownership was transferred to Dubai in or around 1850. Hatta’s craggy mountain cliffs, scattered springs and lush valleys offer a stark contrast to the glassy facades of the city. Hike up the Hajar mountains and you will get to see breathtaking views of the historical village. The area was once called Al Hajerin, or Al Hajeran, in reference to the two mountain peaks guarding its north and south borders.
Old village of Hatta
The old village of Hatta includes two prominent military towers from the 1880s, a fort from 1896 and the Juma mosque, which was built in 1780 and is the oldest building in Hatta. The traditional water supply was through the falaj system, which also has been restored.
Hatta Heritage Village
The restored, centuries-old Hatta Heritage Village features a defensive tower, stone houses with palm-frond roofs, and falaj, the traditional water system. Other exhibits include traditional weapons, furniture and crockery. At the nearby Hatta Dam, the Hatta Reservoir Visitor Point overlooks the pools of striking green water.
Since Hatta is located in the mountains, it was the summer habitation of Dubai-based families escaping the heat and humidity of the coast and trying new outdoor activities.
The Hatta Dam
The Hatta Dam was constructed in the late 1990s. Hatta Dam is now one of the main attractions in the area, with the bright, turquoise water set against the earthy rock for a picturesque vista. Visitors can drive along the dam and stop at viewpoints for photographs, or trek across it and down the hilly terrain or kayak across the quiet lake formed by the dam.
Hatta Fort
Hatta Fort
Hatta Fort, built in 1896, is one of the most significant architectural monuments in the UAE. The structure served as a residence and defence facility with a large internal courtyard and an 11m-high watchtower. The building was restored in 1995. The two round watchtowers overlooking the mountain village were built in the 1880s. They are located 2.5m above ground level with a small door and semi-circular staircase leading to the roof. Guards would use ropes to scale the towers and enter through the doors.
Hatta Hill Park
Hatta Hill Park was built in 2004. The nearly 64sqkm area is popular for picnics and barbecues, as well as a tower, which makes for an excellent vantage point.
Hatta Heritage Village
Hatta Heritage Village
Hatta Heritage Village in the central town is a restored museum. It comprises 30 buildings, including huts and houses, reconstructed as they were hundreds of years ago. The Village also houses relics and documents of past life, where you’ll learn about Dubai’s Arabian heritage from food to folklore. There are two watchtowers and a fort, as well as a mosque from olden times. The museum also hosts several events during UAE holidays such as National Day (2 December).
Hatta Wadi Hub
Hatta Wadi Hub is the town’s home of action and adventure, open in winter. Here you can try your hand at archery and axe throwing. You can go twin ziplining with a friend. You can opt to paraglide with the Bird Eye Parachuting Club that will take you soaring into the air 500 feet off the ground. The 52 km of mountain biking trails provide cross-country bike paths of varying difficulty levels, encouraging novices and professionals to enjoy the picturesque alleys.
If you want to stay overnight, book at the Hatta Damani Lodges or Hatta Sedr Trailers, both providing chic accommodation nestled in the mountains. Hatta Dome Park will give you the ultimate glamping experience. Hatta Caravan Park is the first luxury caravan park in the region.
The JA Hatta Fort Hotel is great if you’re looking for a resort-style stay. The hotel has its own restaurants, spa, mini golf and petting zoo, while every room and suite comes with mountainside views.
Larger groups visiting Hatta can choose from one of several farm house rentals, including The Reef and Happiness Farm, each complete with facilities such as BBQ areas and a pool for the kids to splash around in.
