Hatta, United Arab Emirates


Hatta is the inland exclave of the emirate of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.

Geography

It lies to the south-east of Dubai's main territory and is about east of Dubai. It is located relatively high in the Hajar Mountains. It borders Oman to the east and the south, the Ajman exclave of Masfout to the west, and Ras al-Khaimah to the north.

History

Previously known as Hajarain, Hatta became a dependency of Dubai during the reign of Hasher Bin Maktoum after the Omani Sultan Turki bin Said transferred the territory, finding himself unable to defend it against the Na'im of Buraimi, who had settled neighbouring Masfout. The village was still called Hajarain as recently as 1906.
The old village of Hatta includes two prominent military towers from the 1880s, a fort from 1896 and the Juma mosque, which was built in 1780 and is the oldest building in Hatta. The traditional water supply was through the falaj system, which also has been restored. Since it is located in the mountains, traditionally it was the summer habitation of Dubai-based families escaping the heat and humidity of the coast.
Since the early 1980s, Hatta has been a popular destination for adventuring western immigrants and local families alike 'wadi bashing' through the tracks between Hatta, Mahdah and Al Ain.

Economy

Hatta's main economic factor is tourism and water. Historically the area was able to grow date palms; the fruits were used as a food source, while the tree was used for building material. It has a popular heritage village, including a collection of reconstructed traditional mountain dwellings and is popular for weekend getaways with both people camping in the winter months or staying at the Hatta Fort Hotel, which is located only from away from Hatta Dam.
Hatta Dam was built in 1990s to supply the area with electricity and water. is a popular tourist destination and a favourite spot for kayaking in UAE. Dubai Electricity and Water Authority plans a 250 MW pumped-storage hydroelectricity at Hatta using 880 million gallons of water above a lower dam.

Sports

It is home to football side Hatta Club.

Gallery