New Country Club in Uayma Planned Near Chichén ItzáA 296-acre residential project joins two other developments seeking environmental permits from Yucatán's state government
The Yucatán state government is accepting public input for environmental permits on three major projects, including a sprawling country club development in Uayma, a town 27.6 miles northeast of Chichén Itzá.
The Secretaría de Desarrollo Sustentable (SDS) announced the consultation period for Umaya Eco Residencial, an industrial warehouse complex in Mérida and an organic fertilizer plant in Kaua. The Uayma project appears in the state’s online platform (link below), where developers seek approval to proceed with construction.
The Umaya development marks another growth phase for a region already grappling with rapid change. In recent years, Yucatán’s eastern corridor has experienced mounting pressure from tourism development, residential projects, and infrastructure expansion.
Umaya Eco Residencial plans to cover 120 hectares (296 acres) of jungle with 568 residential lots ranging from 580 to 2,000 square meters (6,243 to 21,528 square feet). The development promises more than 40 amenities, including a clubhouse, artificial river, cenotes, outdoor amphitheater, pools, sports courts, yoga areas, restaurants, and 24/7 security.
The project’s location puts it 10 minutes from Valladolid and 20 minutes from Chichén Itzá, positioning the development to attract buyers interested in the region’s tourism boom and archaeological treasures.
Uayma, home to about 3,000 people, has seen growing development interest in recent years. The town is best known for its striking 17th-century Santo Domingo de Guzmán church, with its kaleidoscope facade and unique decorative features mixing colonial and Maya elements.
Real estate developers have targeted the Valladolid area as property values climb across Yucatán. The region’s proximity to the Tren Maya railway, the new Chichén Itzá international airport, and major archaeological sites has fueled investor interest. According to industry forecasts, Valladolid is positioned to become a leading destination for real estate investment through 2027.
Environmental consultations allow residents and stakeholders to review project plans and voice concerns before permits are granted. The SDS evaluates potential impacts on natural resources, ecosystems, and local communities as part of the approval process.
Pre-Colonial Uayma
Before the Spanish conquest, Uayma was part of a Maya chiefdom known as the Cupules, which controlled much of the eastern Peninsula. The town maintains its traditional character despite modernization, with many residents still moving around by bicycle and rickshaw.
The state government’s platform allows public input on the three projects during the consultation period, though specific timelines for approval decisions have not been announced. Developers typically must address environmental concerns and community feedback before receiving final permits.
As development accelerates near Chichén Itzá, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that draws millions of visitors annually, questions persist about balancing economic growth with environmental protection and cultural preservation. According to UNESCO assessments, the archaeological site faces ongoing challenges from tourism pressure and inadequate infrastructure.
The industrial warehouse complex planned for Mérida and the organic fertilizer plant in Kaua represent different sectors seeking to expand operations in Yucatán. All three projects must complete environmental impact assessments before construction can begin.
Umaya Eco Residencial is in a pre-sale phase, with lots priced based on size and location within the development. The project markets itself as offering a lifestyle connected to nature and Maya heritage while providing modern amenities and security features.
Public Consultation Information:
- Projects can be reviewed on the Yucatán state government’s SIG2 platform at sigv2.insejupy.gob.mx/SIG2
- Comments and concerns can be submitted through the Secretaría de Desarrollo Sustentable
- SDS office: Calle 64 #437 x 53 y 47A, Centro, Mérida
- Phone: 999-930-3380
Visiting Uayma:
- Located 15 kilometers (nine miles) west of Valladolid on state highway 79
- Santo Domingo de Guzmán church is open daily for visitors
- Several boutique hotels and rental properties are available in town
- Cenote Uayma nearby for swimming
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