Dubai is set to welcome a landmark environmental and recreational destination after His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai, approved the ambitious Al Layan Oasis Project. The large-scale development reflects the emirate’s long-standing commitment to sustainability, livability, and innovative urban planning.
Spanning approximately one million square meters, the Al Layan Oasis is designed to celebrate the raw beauty of Dubai’s desert landscape while enhancing quality of life for residents and visitors alike. At the heart of the project lies a stunning lake covering more than 250,000 square meters, creating a vibrant contrast against the surrounding dunes and natural terrain.
A Vision Rooted in Sustainability
The approval of the Al Layan Oasis Project reinforces Dubai’s commitment to building a sustainable urban environment. Sheikh Mohammed emphasized that Dubai’s development journey is guided by an integrated model that places people at the center of planning. High-quality infrastructure, efficient public services, and responsible resource management are key pillars of this approach.
The project forms part of the Blue and Green Roadmap 2030, recently launched by Dubai Municipality. This roadmap outlines a series of initiatives valued at more than AED 4 billion, all aimed at strengthening Dubai’s environmental resilience and enhancing overall wellbeing.
By investing in nature-based projects, Dubai continues to solidify its standing among the world’s most future-ready cities. Al Layan Oasis is not merely a recreational space—it is a practical demonstration of how environmental stewardship and urban development can work hand in hand.
Aligning with Dubai’s Long-Term Strategies
The Al Layan Oasis Project aligns closely with several of Dubai’s broader development strategies. It complements the Dubai Countryside and Rural Areas Development Plan, which focuses on preserving natural landscapes while introducing services and facilities that elevate residents’ lifestyles and expand tourism offerings.
The initiative also supports the Dubai Quality of Life Strategy 2033 and is fully aligned with the objectives of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. These long-term frameworks aim to create a city that balances growth with sustainability, ensuring that public spaces, green areas, and community wellbeing remain at the forefront of expansion.
Marwan Ahmed bin Ghalita, Director-General of Dubai Municipality, described the project as a reflection of Dubai’s advanced model for harnessing environmental assets to generate sustainable social and economic value. He noted that investing in nature is a core component of enhancing happiness and quality of life in the emirate.
Enhancing the Desert Experience
Situated approximately 50 minutes from Dubai’s city center, Al Layan Oasis is strategically positioned along Dubai’s caravan route. The development is expected to attract around 330,000 visitors annually, offering a tranquil desert retreat that balances eco-tourism with environmental preservation.
The project includes integrated infrastructure and around 1,000 parking spaces to ensure seamless access for visitors. A key highlight is the creation of 14 kilometers of walking and cycling tracks. Among these are four kilometers of elevated pathways rising five meters above ground level, offering panoramic views of the oasis and connecting with existing routes in Al Marmoom.
By blending modern infrastructure with natural surroundings, the oasis will provide a serene environment where visitors can reconnect with nature while enjoying contemporary amenities.
Four Distinct Zones, One Unified Experience
Al Layan Oasis will be divided into four main zones, each designed to deliver a unique yet interconnected experience.
The Gathering Oasis will serve as a vibrant social hub. It will feature an open-air cinema, amphitheater, food truck areas, and flexible event spaces. This zone aims to foster cultural engagement and community interaction under the open desert sky.
The Family Oasis will focus on comfort and inclusivity. It will include 28 rest areas, dedicated children’s play zones, and integrated amenities that cater to families seeking relaxation and leisure in a safe, welcoming environment.
The Camping Oasis will provide dedicated spaces capable of accommodating up to 100 caravans. It will also house a visitor center dedicated to environmental awareness and education, reinforcing the project’s sustainability mission.
The Recreation Oasis will offer a variety of activities, retail outlets, and essential services within a thoughtfully designed natural setting. This area will encourage active lifestyles while maintaining harmony with the surrounding ecosystem.
Together, these four zones create a holistic destination that blends leisure, education, culture, and environmental appreciation.
Expanding Green Infrastructure
A major component of the Al Layan Oasis Project is the expansion of native planting and shaded areas. These enhancements are designed to improve visitor comfort while strengthening ecological resilience. By prioritizing indigenous plant species and eco-friendly solutions, the development supports biodiversity and protects the desert’s unique natural character.
The project has been designed in accordance with the highest environmental standards, incorporating resource-efficient systems and sustainable construction practices. It represents a careful balance between development and conservation.
In addition, Dubai Municipality is allocating approximately 365,000 square meters within the project for investment opportunities. This move aims to strengthen public-private partnerships, stimulate economic activity, and ensure high-quality services for visitors.
A New Chapter in Community Wellbeing
At its core, Al Layan Oasis is about people. The project has been crafted to support physical and mental wellbeing, encourage healthy lifestyles, and strengthen social cohesion. By providing spaces for walking, cycling, camping, and community gatherings, the oasis will become an integral part of daily life for many residents.
The development also underscores Dubai’s ambition to be one of the best cities in the world to live in. By integrating environmental preservation with recreational innovation, the emirate continues to raise the bar for sustainable urban planning.
Al Layan Oasis stands as a strategic addition to Dubai’s growing portfolio of environmental destinations. It showcases how thoughtful design, strong leadership, and a clear sustainability vision can transform natural landscapes into vibrant, life-enhancing spaces.
As Dubai continues to evolve, projects like Al Layan Oasis serve as powerful reminders that progress and preservation can move forward together—creating a city where nature, community, and opportunity thrive side by side.
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