Al Ain: The zigzag road going up Jebel Hafeet, a tourist hotspot in Al Ain, gives thrills to motorists who are attracted from across the country to visit the scenic spot. The 30-year old road, though still in good shape, will be renovated.
Al Ain Municipality has developed a renovation plan for the 12 kilometre road, starting from Green Mubazzara, a resort in the foothills of Jebel Hafeet, up to the peak. Costing about Dh35 million, the project will be completed in a year, said a municipality spokesperson.
The project, he said, will start this year with the approval of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.
Al Ain Municipality recently signed a contract with a contractor. Under the project, maintenance will be carried out on the road and on the concrete support walls around it. Rain water drainage and safety measures will also be improved, he added.
Saleh Al Mazroui, head of the municipality's Roads and Infrastructure Maintenance Sections, said the project will enhance the safety of the road.
Parking points
The road has three lanes including two for traffic going up the hill and one for returning vehicles.
A number of parking areas on the way, turns, and slops offer stunning views, especially at night.
He said the road was built 30 years ago by a German company and its maintenance and repair have become urgent in light of the increased traffic.
Meanwhile, Jebel Hafeet visitors have asked authorities to develop a garden on half of the platform at the top of the mountain.
People expect to see a well-developed tourist point on the mountain, but they feel frustrated when they find only desolate ground at the top.
A viewpoint was provided at the peak at a height of approximately 1,240 metres above sea level.
Driving on the road is a thrilling experience, said David Brook, an expatriate visitor. He said the typical Gulf environment, with its reddish brown dusty air, is a major hindrance to a clear view from the top. It is also too high to see anything on the ground, he said.
He added that authorities must consider providing a children's play area, a garden, and a traditional Arabian souq which can bring life to the mountain peak.
Have you visited Jebel Hafeet? How was your experience? What improvements would you like to see?
