Get to Know the New Billion-Dollar Tourism Projects in the UAE

The UAE is set to transform its popular destinations in 2026 with a series of major tourism and entertainment projects; from a $1.7 billion development in Abu Dhabi to the expansion of Dubai's beaches and new projects in Khorfakkan and Ras Al Khaimah.

In Abu Dhabi, Yas Island will host the Abu Dhabi Sphere; a project with a construction cost of $1.7 billion, which will be the first Sphere outside of America. This complex will be built between Yas Mall and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi, with a capacity to accommodate 20,000 people and is expected to host concerts, sporting events, immersive shows, and conferences. Additionally, over 12 billion dirhams have been announced for new investments to develop attractions on Yas Island over the next five years.

In Dubai, the Al Liwan Oasis project, covering an area of one million square meters, is under development; a destination featuring a lake of over 250,000 square meters, walking and cycling paths, an outdoor cinema, family spaces, and camping facilities for 100 caravans.

Also, the 500 million dirham project to renovate Umm Suqeim Beach aims to transform this beach into a recreational destination for all hours of the day. The beach's capacity after development will reach about 6 million visitors per year, with facilities such as walking and cycling paths, parking, and a 38-meter observation tower being added.

In Sharjah's Khorfakkan, the Abu Al Keizan Marine Village project is taking shape on a 7 million square foot area; a complex featuring a natural harbor, beach, green spaces, hotel, residential units, commercial centers, and a mosque.

The Khorfakkan Resort project has also been added to this destination with an investment of 700 million dirhams, including 573 residential units, 16 shops, a pool, green space, children's recreational facilities, a private beach, and hotel services.

In Ras Al Khaimah, the development of Al Rams Waterfront and Al Rams Boulevard has begun. This project will create walking, cycling, and running paths, green spaces, playgrounds, parking, and squares for social events along two kilometers of coastline.

The totality of these projects indicates that the UAE is expanding its tourism portfolio beyond well-known attractions and adding new destinations for recreation, culture, events, and nature.
Source: Gulf News