The UAE is continuing to expand its tourism and leisure sector in 2026, with major new developments taking shape across Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah.
Investments announced or advanced during the year range from large entertainment venues and resorts to waterfront destinations and environmentally focused recreational projects.
The projects are also adding new attractions for residents and international visitors as individual emirates invest in destinations combining entertainment, hospitality, recreation and local identity.
Abu Dhabi Strengthens Yas Island Portfolio
Abu Dhabi is expanding its investment in Yas Island, with one of the year’s biggest announcements being the selection of the destination for Sphere Abu Dhabi.
Announced in May, the project will require around $1.7 billion for its construction phase and will become the first Sphere venue outside the United States. The 20,000-capacity venue will be located between Yas Mall and SeaWorld Abu Dhabi.
Plans include immersive experiences, live concerts, sporting events, conferences and other large-scale gatherings. The venue is also expected to provide a platform for Emirati culture as well as local and Arab talent.
Meanwhile, Miral plans to invest more than Dh12 billion across Yas Island over the next five years. The investment will fund new developments and upgrades to existing attractions, including additional immersive experiences and rides.
The expansion thus supports the Abu Dhabi Tourism Strategy 2030 and strengthens Yas Island’s position as a major regional leisure and entertainment destination.
Dubai Invests In Outdoor and Coastal Attractions
Dubai is also adding new recreational destinations, with environmental and waterfront developments forming an important part of its plans.
In February, the emirate approved Al Layan Oasis, a one-million-square-metre environmental and recreational project centred around a lake spanning more than 250,000 square metres. Plans include cycling and walking routes, spaces for families and events, an outdoor cinema and camping facilities capable of accommodating 100 caravans. Retail and recreational services will also be incorporated into the development, with sustainability forming a central part of the concept.
Dubai has separately approved a Dh500 million redevelopment of Umm Suqeim Beach. The master plan will transform the area into an all-day leisure and tourism destination while incorporating elements of Emirati identity.
Once completed, the beach is expected to accommodate around six million visitors each year. New features will include enhanced parking and visitor facilities, cycling and walking tracks, a 38-metre observation tower and a two-kilometre coastal retaining wall. Artificial intelligence and other smart technologies will also support the management of the destination.
Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah Expand Coastal Tourism
Sharjah is advancing several projects in Khorfakkan, including Abu Al Keizan Marine Village. Covering seven million square feet, the development draws inspiration from traditional coastal settlements, Islamic architecture and local design.
Plans feature a natural harbour amid rocky surroundings, a beach, a boulevard, green areas, a hotel, a mosque, and a mix of residential, office, and commercial facilities. The master plan includes 201 plots accommodating 285 buildings while accentuating protection of the area’s natural and marine environment.
Khorfakkan has also welcomed the Dh700 million Khorfakkan Resort, featuring 573 residential units, 16 retail outlets, a private beach, swimming pools, a gym and 100,000 square feet of elevated green space, alongside children’s recreation facilities and hotel services.
In Ras Al Khaimah, work has begun on Al Rams Waterfront and Al Rams Boulevard. The 2,000-metre waterfront will provide walking, jogging and cycling tracks as well as green areas, playgrounds, parking, public facilities and plazas for community events.
Together, the projects portray the scale of tourism development underway across the UAE as the country continues investing in new cultural, leisure and hospitality experiences designed to attract visitors and support long-term economic growth.
