The second annual #HattaWinter festival, organized by Brand Dubai and running from December 5, 2025, to January 31, 2026, officially launched under the directive of Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai. This expanded initiative, an integral component of the ongoing #DubaiDestinations campaign, aims to solidify Hatta’s position as a premier cultural, natural, and winter tourism spot, featuring six specialized festivals and significant infrastructure enhancements across the mountainous enclave.
The comprehensive details of the extended program were unveiled at a press conference at the Government of Dubai Media Office. Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office, is collaborating with an array of key government partners, including the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), Dubai Municipality, Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, the Community Development Authority, the Dubai Sports Council, and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, to execute the vast offering.
Boosting Hatta’s Tourism and Economic Development
Her Excellency Mona Al Marri, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director of the Dubai Media Council and Director General of the Government of Dubai Media Office, emphasized the initiative’s crucial role in achieving the Hatta Development Plan’s goals. Last year’s inaugural edition successfully drew nearly one million visitors, demonstrating the region’s quickly rising allure.
“These cultural and sports initiatives are vital in elevating Hatta’s international reputation, spurring private sector activity, and driving significant community-led development,” Al Marri stated. She highlighted that the diverse programming, which includes entertainment, sports, and cultural activities, is designed to showcase Hatta’s unique heritage and breathtaking natural landscapes. Al Marri encouraged tourists, residents, and citizens alike to explore the enhanced events aimed at cementing Hatta as an essential winter escape.
The second edition features six distinct festivals: the flagship #HattaFestival (December 5–28, 2025 at Leem Lake), the Hatta Honey Festival, the Hatta Agricultural Festival, Hatta Cultural Nights, the Productive Families Festival, and the Hatta Wadi Hub Festival.
Supporting Local Entrepreneurs and Infrastructure
Brand Dubai Director Shaima Al Suwaidi praised the comprehensive inter-agency cooperation underpinning the festival, reiterating a shared commitment to promoting Hatta’s recreational and cultural attractions. Crucially, the festival serves as a platform for local commerce; Al Suwaidi noted that 30 small and emerging businesses participating in the “Proudly from Dubai” initiative—including several Hatta-based ventures—will use the event to showcase homegrown products and expand their market reach.
Community engagement is a focal point this year. Amina Taher, a member of the organizing committee, highlighted activities led by local residents, such as specialty camping, Pilates sessions, and night-sky photography workshops, providing unique cultural immersion opportunities. The initiative will also cultivate young talent through the “Young Entrepreneur” project, which offers interactive entrepreneurial experiences for children.
To handle the anticipated influx, significant logistical preparations are underway. Hussain Al Banna, CEO of the Traffic and Roads Agency at RTA, confirmed that the Supreme Committee overseeing Hatta’s development is advancing an ambitious infrastructure plan comprising 74 projects. RTA is prioritizing seamless mobility and safety for the festival, providing over 1,000 new parking spaces, dedicated shuttle services, and traffic management teams.
Dubai Police reaffirmed their commitment to visitor safety, with Captain Ghadeer Mohammed Al Khalidi, Head of the Traffic Registration Section at Hatta Police Station, stating that specialized teams are deployed to ensure secure access to all festival sites and smooth pedestrian and traffic flow.
Dubai Municipality’s involvement includes organizing the 10th edition of the Hatta Honey Festival (December 27–31, 2025), which supports Emirati beekeepers, and the Hatta Agricultural Festival (January 16–20, 2026), showcasing local agricultural products and resources from 25 area farmers. These diverse offerings underscore Hatta’s role in fulfilling Dubai’s wider economic and social agendas, positioning the region as a vibrant hub for both international tourism and community prosperity.