Meraas unveils The Yard

Dubai-based developer Meraas unveiled The Yard, an eclectic new destination in Dubai’s rapidly developing Al Khawaneej area. The suburban hideaway encompasses Last Exit D89, launched in 2017 as an initial phase, a new picturesque 350,000 sqft extension, which opened to the public on January 25 and will eventually grow into a 2.8 million sqft urban destination.

The most recent addition to The Yard comprises a rustic courtyard, an organic farmer’s market, a bakery, air-conditioned and open-air restaurants and dining spaces, a unique mix of shops, a lake with two bridges spanning it, shaded walking trails and expansive landscaped picnic areas.

The design of The Yard is inspired by the surrounding neighbourhoods, known as Dubai’s agricultural heartland. The architecture, interiors and landscaping create a laid-back ambience for families from the local community and beyond to enjoy.

“The Yard reflects Meraas’s strong commitment to creating imaginative and exciting family-friendly destinations that provide opportunities for Dubai’s residents and visitors to share unforgettable experiences. In line with our vision of connecting communities through the many sectors that we operate in, the destination’s offerings seek to enhance people’s happiness and sense of belonging,” says Nouf AlMheiri, architect at Meraas.

Blending rural farm environment with urban accents, The Yard has a distinctive visual identity with playful murals that provide an ideal backdrop for photographs. An 18-metre-tall windmill, a water mill, a wishing well, decorative vintage pick-up trucks, farm animals and bird houses further augment the photogenic appeal of the destination.

Adding a hint of nostalgia, The Yard features a ‘Promise Bridge’, where people can make symbolic pledges to their loved ones by attaching padlocks. Stepping stones lead visitors from the main courtyard to the lake and picnic areas, where they can follow a wholesome breakfast, lunch or dinner with a casual stroll or brisk walk around the 550-metre walkway.

The destination features ample parking, drop-off points and convenient services and amenities, available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It will also host community events that bring residents and visitors together to socialise, explore, learn, play, create and innovate.