Dubai is set to unveil two major tourist attractions – the Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls and a 5.4-kilometer long cable car – as part of the new Hydroelectric Power Plant project. The Dubai Electricity and Water Authority (Dewa) made this announcement at the 25th Water, Energy, Technology, and Environment Exhibition.
The Hatta Sustainable Waterfalls will utilize the slope of the hydro plant’s upper dam to create a stunning, sustainable waterfall. The water will be recycled, aligning with Dubai’s commitment to sustainability. Alongside this, the project will feature a children’s play area, cafes, and restaurants. A significant feature is its design, inspired by a hexagonal beehive, paying tribute to the UAE founding fathers and the region’s famous Hatta honey.
In a thrilling addition, the Dubai Mountain Peak cable car will transport visitors to the peak of Um Al-Nesoor, Dubai’s highest natural summit at 1,300 meters above sea level. The route will offer breathtaking views over Hatta Dam Lake and the Upper Dam Lake, culminating in the serene Hajar Mountains.
Saeed Mohammed Al Tayer, MD & CEO of Dewa, revealed that the 250 MW Hatta hydroelectric power station, a first in the GCC region, will be operational within a year. This project, part of Dubai’s Clean Energy Strategy 2050, aims to generate 100% of Dubai’s energy from clean sources by 2050. The plant will have a significant 250 MW production capacity and a storage capacity of 1,500 megawatt-hours, boasting a lifespan of up to 80 years.
Beyond their environmental significance, these projects are expected to boost the local economy and provide job opportunities in Hatta. Dewa has also planned to support local Emiratis by offering retail spaces in the mountain enclave free of cost.
Al Tayer emphasized the importance of these projects in showcasing the UAE’s natural beauty and commitment to harmonizing development with environmental preservation. While no completion date has been announced, the waterfalls project is budgeted at Dh46 million, and a tender for the cable car’s construction is forthcoming.