What is Hatta Waterfalls in Dubai?

Have you heard of this idea? It’s a project by the Dubai Electricity & Water Authority (DEWA). They opened it in December 2024. The place cost about AED 60 million.

It’s built next to the Hatta Dam, in the Hajar Mountains. DEWA wants Hatta waterfalls to become more than just a weekend escape, it should blend nature, local culture, and some social benefit.

What You Can Do When You Visit Hatta Waterfalls

If we were going together, here’s what I’d plan:

• Walk along the water canal, see the waterfalls above the mosaic. Enjoy views of the Hajar Mountains.
  
• Grab coffee or food at one of the cafes/restaurants. Good spots with views.
  
• Check out shops, local honey, regional goods, souvenirs.
  
• Kids’ play area is part of the setup, convenient if you bring family.
  
• Photo time: the big mosaic, oases, reflections in water, bridges, all good for photos.
  
• Stay long enough so you can enjoy calm moments, not rush.

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Why It Matters

Here’s why I think this place is more than just “a pretty spot”:

• It gives job / business options to people in Hatta. The retail & cafes are being offered free for locals at first. That helps local families.
  
• It uses water recycling. That means less waste, more reuse.
  
• It respects local heritage: honey, the mountain view, the trees & plants, the mosaic of founding fathers.
  
• It supports Dubai’s strategy for more green / natural tourism, better life quality outside densely urban areas.

When to Go & What to Know Beforehand

Here’s what I found out that helps with planning:

• Best months are cooler ones, probably October‑April. Midday sun in summer can get harsh in the mountains.
  
• Go early in the morning or maybe later afternoon. Might have fewer people, more comfortable temperature.
  
• Bring sun protection: hat, sunscreen, sunglasses. Also water, comfy shoes. Terrain is not flat everywhere.
  
• Some facilities may still be adjusting (because it’s relatively new). Check if restaurants/cafes are open.
  
• For families: Play area is placed so guardians can see children from cafes. Good planning.

Some Numbers / Stats That Stand Out

Just so you have some real numbers:

• Cost: ~ AED 60 million at inauguration time. Earlier phases / budget figures had ~ AED 46 million.
  
• Mosaic: 2,199 m², 1.2 million marble pieces.
  
• Retail / food units: 4 restaurants (~120 m² each), 6 cafes (~82 m²), 4 retail shops (~36 m²) along canal.
  
• Land use: area around the dam slope & canal is landscaped with old trees, palms, cacti etc.

Thoughts Before You Go

Here are some reflections, because nothing’s perfect and knowing the catch helps:

• Because it’s new, staff / shops / restaurants may not all be fully running. Some things might still be finishing up.
  
• Since water features + marble + outdoor elements, in very hot or very wet weather, comfort might drop.
  
• If you visit in peak midday sun, it could get warm. Shade spots + breaks matter.
  

Take your time. There’s value in slow walking, sitting, observing, not rushing just to check something off.

Conclusion

The new DEWA project at Hatta Dam isn’t just about adding another attraction, it’s about creating a space that ties together nature, culture, and community. Whether you’re there for the calm mountain air, the chance to support local families through their cafes and shops, or simply to walk slowly along the canal and take in the waterfalls, it feels designed for more than a quick visit. If you go with the right mindset, unhurried, prepared for the outdoors, and open to exploring, it’s an experience that blends scenery with meaning. For Hatta, it’s a step toward becoming a destination where people don’t just pass through, but pause, enjoy, and connect.