Hatta, United Arab Emirates

Hatta is the inland exclave of the emirate of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.GeographyIt lies to the south-east of Dubai's main territory and is about 134 km east of Dubai City. It is located relatively high in the Hajar Mountains. It borders Oman to the east and the south, the Ajmani exclave of Masfut to the west, and Ras al-Khaimah to the north.HistoryThe old village of Hatta includes two prominent military towers from the 18th century 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 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 expatriates and local families alike 'wadi bashing' through the tracks between Hatta, Mahdah and Al Ain.EconomyHatta'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.