As part of the #DubaiDestinations campaign, the “Our Winter in Hatta” festival, organized by Brand Dubai — the creative arm of the Government of Dubai Media Office — continues to position itself as a vital platform for local entrepreneurs. In this year’s edition, more than 30 innovative small and emerging businesses from the “Proudly from Dubai” initiative are taking part, showcasing a wide range of high-quality local products and creative experiences to thousands of daily visitors.
This expanded participation reflects the continued success of previous editions and Brand Dubai’s ongoing commitment to empowering local businesses. By connecting them with larger audiences through seasonal festivals, the initiative helps foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in both Dubai and the Hatta region.
Supporting Ambitions Through Opportunity
Amina Taher, a member of the festival’s organizing committee, emphasized that “Our Winter in Hatta” is more than just a tourism initiative — it’s a platform designed to generate lasting economic impact.
“Dubai has always been the launchpad for big dreams. Many of the world-renowned brands started from humble beginnings here,” Taher said. “Through initiatives like ‘Proudly from Dubai,’ we aim to continue this legacy by supporting passionate entrepreneurs. The public’s enthusiastic response since the festival opened on December 5 speaks volumes — it not only boosts customer confidence but also opens doors for future growth.”
Nurturing Local Business Growth
Khawla Al Hashimi, another member of the organizing committee, highlighted the festival’s role in creating a nurturing environment for new ventures.
“The festival is a crucial opportunity for startups — especially those based in Hatta and across Dubai — to showcase their talents to a wide and diverse audience,” she said. “Hatta’s rapid development as a tourist destination makes it the perfect backdrop to promote and empower local entrepreneurs.”
Brand Dubai is also focused on onboarding new businesses each year, ensuring the initiative keeps pace with the evolving creative economy and continues to offer opportunities for emerging talent.
A Celebration of Local Flavor and Creativity
This year’s lineup features a vibrant mix of food, beverage, artisanal, and lifestyle brands, many of which reflect the unique identity of Hatta. Highlights include:
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Gourmet & Artisanal Delights: Choco Lab, Eshba, Choco.chunk, Bleu Bottle, AES, Way To Zero, Shawarma on Fire, LUMO, Freej Hatta, and My Health Hatta.
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Handmade & Creative Goods: Art Piece, Fab.lline, Waggish, sleep.camel, swirlywirlystudio, gamers link, and fabrique.
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Trendy Culinary Experiences: Tomorrow Morning, HAAS, Pckd, Chacha Matcha, Vicolo, G.O.A.T., Must, Japanese Talk, Flip Smash Burgers, and The Cut.
Each of these ventures brings a distinctive flair, combining modern taste with local authenticity, and contributing to the overall charm of the festival.
Empowering the Next Generation: “Little Trader”
Adding a heartwarming touch to the event, the “Little Trader” program provides young Hatta residents the chance to showcase their own small-scale businesses. This year, four children — Latifa Salem Al Bedwawi, Reem and Jude Al Dahmani, and Khalifa Nasser Al Kaabi — are joined by local artist Hamid Al Baloushi, who presents artwork inspired by the surrounding environment.
Mobile Food Units and Lakeside Vibes
Mobile food carts scattered around Hatta’s Lime Lake further elevate the visitor experience with quick bites and creative refreshments. Participating vendors include Jeeran, Just Fruit, and KUHP — each offering a unique flavor of innovation in motion.
A Festival That Blends Culture, Nature, and Innovation
The “Our Winter in Hatta” festival continues to attract tens of thousands of visitors, offering a unique blend of entertainment, scenic beauty, and cultural immersion. But beyond its surface appeal, the event embodies Dubai’s strategic vision to foster its creative economy, spotlight local talent, and solidify Hatta’s growing reputation as a prime winter destination.
With the support of initiatives like “Proudly from Dubai,” and festivals like this one, the city reinforces its position as a nurturing ground for dreamers, doers, and disruptors — building a future where local stories become global successes.
