HATTA (ALETIHAD)
Nestled in the serene embrace of the majestic Hajar Mountains, the Hatta Honeybee Garden and Discovery Center has rapidly emerged as a captivating eco-tourism destination.
This tranquil haven has become a magnet for visitors seeking a unique blend of green recreation, honey production, and educational experiences.
Spanning 16,000 square meters, the garden is surrounded by ancient wild trees, including the iconic Samar, Ghaf, and Sidr.
It boasts 300 active beehives from a total of 4,000 managed by Hatta Honey, a company renowned for its premium honey sourced from locations across the UAE.
This natural attraction offers not just a taste of exquisite honey but also an opportunity to learn about sustainable beekeeping in a picturesque setting.
Highlighting the UAE's pioneering role in natural honey production, local farms are being positioned as eco-friendly tourist destinations.
This initiative aligns with the fifth season of the ‘World’s Coolest Winter’ campaign, launched under the theme ‘Green Tourism.’
The campaign is a collaborative effort involving the Ministry of Economy, the National Agricultural Center, and local tourism authorities.
It reflects the broader vision of the UAE’s domestic tourism strategy, introduced by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. The strategy aims to create an integrated tourism ecosystem across the nation, promoting sustainability and enhancing local attractions.
Since opening its doors in 2018, Hatta Honeybee Garden and Discovery Center has seamlessly combined commercial honey production with a pioneering educational role.
As the first of its kind in the Middle East and North Africa, it has become a hub for knowledge, attracting thousands of visitors to explore the UAE's rich heritage in beekeeping.
It offers interactive workshops that delve into the historical and ecological significance of bees and pollinators, emphasizing their critical role in biodiversity preservation and food security.
Visitors can learn about sustainable beekeeping practices, the diversity of bee species and hives, and the production of natural honey.
The experience is enhanced by strolling through the garden's vibrant array of flowers and plants, creating a unique blend of education and natural beauty.
Hatta Honeybee Garden and Discovery Center has established itself as a leader in producing 100% pure UAE honey, adhering to international quality standards such as HACCP, ISO, and ESMA certifications.
It produces around 25 tons of high-value honey annually, with a variety of types, including Samar, Sidr, Ghaf, Mangrove, and Wildflower honey. This production takes place within a short two-month season.
In addition to its honey production, it also breeds nearly 5,000 queen bees each year.
By introducing innovative methods for locally producing queen bees, it has reduced the need for imports.
This success marks a significant step forward in supporting the sustainability and growth of the honey production industry in Hatta, ensuring the sector thrives in harmony with the country’s unique environmental and climatic conditions.
Hatta Honeybee Garden and Discovery Center has established itself as a key player in advancing beekeeping practices through its community-driven initiatives, including a specialized training institute for beekeepers.
It offers workshops, training programs, and beekeeping courses that provide certification and equip participants with the skills to enhance their practices.
In addition to its educational efforts, Hatta Honeybee Garden and Discovery Center conducts scientific research to assess the effectiveness of beekeeping programs and policies while also promoting the health benefits of honey through scientific studies.
Furthermore, it is committed to using science to protect bees and other pollinators, as well as developing research to combat food fraud and honey adulteration.
Additionally, it employs cutting-edge technology, including cameras and remote hive tracking systems, enabling staff to monitor temperature, humidity, and hive weight changes, as well as observe bee activity, such as entry and exit from the hives.