Dubai’s Hatta Winter Festival Draws 2M Visitors

Dubai’s popular winter tourism initiative #HattaWinter has successfully concluded after attracting more than 2 million visitors from across the UAE and the wider region. The campaign was announced by Brand Dubai, the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office.

The initiative was held under the directives and patronage of His Highness Sheikh Ahmed bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Second Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Chairman of the Dubai Media Council. The programme encouraged residents and tourists to explore Hatta’s mountain attractions during the cooler months.

Six Festivals Under #HattaWinter

The #HattaWinter initiative was organised under the supervision of the Supreme Committee to Oversee the Development of Hatta and ran as part of the #DubaiDestinations campaign.

It featured six major festivals, including:

• Hatta Winter Festival (Brand Dubai)

• Hatta Cultural Nights (Dubai Culture)

• Hatta Honey Festival (Dubai Municipality)

• Hatta Farming Festival (Dubai Municipality)

• Hatta Wadi Hub Festival (Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism – DET)

• Hatta Unites Us Festival (Community Development Authority)

Strong Visitor Turnout and Community Participation

The initiative ran for more than a month and offered a wide range of cultural, entertainment, and community activities. It further strengthened Hatta’s image as a must-visit destination known for its natural beauty, heritage, and history.

Key government partners included:

• Roads and Transport Authority (RTA)

• Dubai Municipality

• Dubai Culture and Arts Authority

• Dubai Sports Council

• Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET)

Several semi-government and private entities also supported the programme.

Officials Highlight Success and Future Growth

Shaima Al Suwaidi, Director of Brand Dubai, said the strong turnout reflects ongoing efforts to highlight Dubai’s diverse attractions through the Dubai Destinations campaign. She added that the large public response proves the initiative’s success in showcasing Hatta’s natural environment and cultural heritage.

Amina Taher, Member of the Hatta Festival Organising Committee, said the success of this year’s edition was the result of months of coordination to ensure a safe and well-managed visitor experience. She also noted that the programme supported local talent, entrepreneurs, productive families, and created sustainable economic and social impact.

Social Media and Media Coverage Break Records

Along with the large visitor turnout, the campaign also performed strongly online. The #HattaWinter content received:

• 2.4 billion views across digital platforms

• 32 million video views for festival-related videos

• Over 1,500 news stories published in newspapers, TV, and online outlets

• Around 60% of the coverage came from within the UAE

Activities, Workshops and Local Businesses

The initiative featured more than 30 unique activities, including highlights such as:

• Cooking and Camping

• Star Photography

• Traditional life experience at Hatta farms for children

Visitors also enjoyed a wide mix of entertainment and educational programmes, including:

• Over 150 workshops

• More than 30 events for all age groups

A major highlight was the participation of 30 homegrown businesses from the ‘Proudly from Dubai’ network, with special focus on businesses based in Hatta.

DSF x Hatta Brings New Mountain Experiences

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said DSF x Hatta helped position the Hajar Mountains as one of Dubai’s most attractive winter destinations. He noted that the programme included more than 30 adventure experiences, along with special attractions such as Dinner in the Sky, and Dubai’s first cinema dome in the mountain region.

Hatta Cultural Nights Welcomed 100,000 Visitors

Mariam Dhaen Al Tamimi, Acting Director of the Heritage Department at Dubai Culture, said the Hatta Cultural Nights ran for 12 days and attracted over 100,000 visitors. She said the festival showcased handicrafts, cultural trails, heritage experiences, and supported local artisans and productive families.

Farming and Honey Festivals Support Rural Development

Badr Anwahi, CEO of the Public Facilities Agency at Dubai Municipality, said the Hatta Farming and Honey festivals supported sustainable rural development and strengthened the local economy. He added that Dubai Municipality continues to support farmers and beekeepers through quality testing systems, supply chain support, and dedicated agricultural initiatives.

“Hatta Unites Us” Focused on Local Entrepreneurs

Maitha Al Shamsi, Executive Director at the Community Development Authority, said the Hatta Unites Us Festival placed the local community at the centre of Hatta’s tourism growth. She explained that the festival created opportunities for home-based entrepreneurs from Hatta to grow their businesses and reach a wider audience.

The #HattaWinter initiative successfully combined culture, entertainment, tourism, and economic opportunities, while promoting Hatta’s natural beauty and heritage. The event further strengthened Hatta’s position as one of Dubai’s leading winter destinations and highlighted Dubai’s ability to deliver world-class seasonal experiences.