Dubai is once again reshaping its landscape — this time with a breathtaking desert transformation that promises to redefine outdoor tourism. Plans have officially been revealed for Al Layan Oasis, a vast new development spanning one million square metres in the Dubai desert.
Designed to welcome up to 330,000 visitors each year, the Dhs4 billion project combines water, greenery, recreation and community spaces in a setting that blends modern attractions with the natural desert environment.
Launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, Al Layan Oasis forms part of a wider strategy to expand Dubai’s tourism offerings while strengthening environmental sustainability.
At the heart of the project lies an enormous man-made lake covering 250,000 square metres — a shimmering centrepiece that will anchor what officials describe as “unprecedented desert tourism experiences.”
A Landmark Lake at the Heart of the Desert
The 250,000-square-metre lake will serve as the focal point of Al Layan Oasis. In a city known for pushing boundaries, this vast body of water in the desert is set to become one of Dubai’s most distinctive outdoor attractions.
Surrounding the lake will be landscaped walkways, shaded relaxation areas and activity zones designed to encourage visitors to spend entire days immersed in nature. The development aims to create a peaceful retreat while still offering lively social spaces.
The lake is part of a broader package of water and green initiatives backed by a Dhs4 billion allocation. The goal is not only to create a visually striking landmark but also to promote sustainable urban growth and biodiversity in desert areas.
14 Kilometres of Scenic Trails and Elevated Pathways
For those who enjoy staying active, Al Layan Oasis will feature 14 kilometres of walking and cycling tracks. These trails are designed to weave naturally through the landscape, giving visitors panoramic views of the lake and surrounding desert.
One of the most striking features will be four kilometres of elevated pathways rising five metres above ground level. From these raised routes, visitors will enjoy sweeping views across the oasis while remaining connected to existing tracks in Al Marmoom.
The emphasis on pedestrian-friendly infrastructure highlights Dubai’s ongoing commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles and accessible public spaces.
Outdoor Cinema, Amphitheatre and Food Truck Plaza
Entertainment will play a major role in bringing the oasis to life. Plans include an open-air cinema, allowing visitors to watch films beneath the desert sky — a concept that blends nostalgia with innovation.
Alongside the cinema, an outdoor amphitheatre will host performances and community events, creating a vibrant cultural hub within the natural setting. The development also includes a dedicated food truck plaza, expected to attract popular local and international brands.
These social spaces are designed to foster connection and shared experiences, transforming the desert into a gathering point for families, friends and visitors from around the world.
Four Distinct Zones for Every Type of Visitor
Al Layan Oasis will be divided into four themed zones, each offering a unique experience tailored to different audiences.
Camping Oasis
This zone will provide designated spaces for 100 caravans, creating a structured yet immersive desert camping experience. A fully equipped visitor centre will promote environmental awareness and educational initiatives, ensuring guests gain insight into desert ecosystems while enjoying their stay.
Family Oasis
The Family Oasis will focus on comfort and convenience. It will feature 28 rest areas, children’s play zones and integrated amenities, making it a welcoming destination for families seeking a day out in nature.
Gathering Oasis
Designed as the social heart of the project, the Gathering Oasis will host the open-air cinema, amphitheatre, food truck plaza and event spaces. This area is expected to become one of Dubai’s most dynamic outdoor entertainment venues.
Recreation Oasis
The Recreation Oasis will offer a mix of activities, retail outlets and essential services — all set within a sustainable natural environment. This zone will balance leisure and practicality, ensuring visitors have everything they need for extended visits.
Infrastructure Designed for Scale
To accommodate its projected annual visitor numbers, the oasis will include 1,000 parking spaces, in addition to the 100 caravan camping spots. Accessibility and visitor flow have clearly been prioritised to ensure a smooth experience even during peak periods.
Significantly, 365,000 square metres of the site will be allocated to private sector investors. This opens the door for major brands and operators to become part of the project, potentially introducing new dining, retail and recreational concepts tailored to the desert setting.
Part of Dubai’s Blue and Green Vision
Al Layan Oasis is not a standalone project. It forms part of Dubai’s Blue and Green Spaces Roadmap 2030, an ambitious initiative focused on enhancing natural landscapes across the emirate.
Under this roadmap, approximately 1.5 million trees are set to be planted over five years. More than 45 landscaping and beautification projects will be implemented, and 120 new parks covering nearly three million square metres will be created.
By embedding Al Layan Oasis within this broader environmental framework, Dubai is reinforcing its long-term commitment to sustainability while continuing to innovate in tourism and urban design.
A Vision for Well-Being and Community
Beyond its scale and spectacle, the project is intended to deliver tangible social benefits. Officials have highlighted the oasis’ role in promoting physical and mental well-being, encouraging outdoor activity and strengthening social cohesion.
In a fast-paced urban environment, access to open green spaces can provide a vital sense of balance. By creating a destination that blends recreation, relaxation and cultural engagement, Al Layan Oasis aims to offer more than just another attraction — it seeks to become a meaningful part of everyday life.
When announcing the launch, Sheikh Mohammed described the project as a new tourism addition to Dubai’s economic sector, centred around a 2.5 million square foot lake and surrounded by recreational facilities, sports trails and camping areas.
His remarks underscored a broader philosophy of continuous development — positioning each new initiative as another step toward building what he described as “a brighter future” and “a life that is the best in the world.”
A Desert Destination Worth the Anticipation
Dubai has built a global reputation for turning bold ideas into reality. From towering skyscrapers to artificial islands, the city consistently demonstrates its appetite for ambitious projects.
Al Layan Oasis may well become the next chapter in that story — a place where water meets sand, where families gather under open skies, and where visitors can cycle above the desert floor before settling in for a film beside a lake.
With its combination of natural beauty, entertainment and sustainability, this new oasis promises to be far more than a scenic retreat. It represents a deliberate move toward integrating green spaces into the fabric of Dubai’s future.
And when its gates finally open, it is likely to be one of the most talked-about additions to the emirate’s ever-evolving landscape.
Do follow UAE Stories on Instagram
Read Next – Ajman Announces Remote Work on Fridays During Ramadan to Strengthen Family Time
