Sharjah to open eco-tourism project and resort

A new eco-tourism and archaeological attraction in the UAE, featuring tours of ancient sites and safari excursions, will open to visitors in Sharjah’s Maliha area this week.

The first phase of the Maliha tourism project will see the opening of the Maliha Archaeological Centre.

Later phases of the Maliha tourism project will provide facilities for a range of sporting activities, including dune buggies.

The Maliha tourism project will be officially inaugurated on Wednesday by His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

Speaking at a press conference on Sunday to reveal the project’s details, officials suggested it had been nominated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site "due to its natural beauty, diversity of rare wildlife and its archaeological discoveries.”

The first phase will see the opening of the Maliha Archaeological Centre, designed to allow visitors to gain a deeper insight about Maliha’s landmarks.

The centre will be a starting point for people visiting the Maliha project, which will offer guided tours of the Umm An Nar Tomb, the Valley of the Caves, Maliha Fort, a historic horse and camel graveyard, an ancient farmhouse with kitchen, and the pre-Islamic Maliha Palace.

There will also be various sporting activities with quad biking and paragliding in Maliha area, in addition to camping opportunities and off-road activities in 4x4 cars.

Speaking at Sunday’s press conference, Shurooq chairperson Shaikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi said she was “particularly delighted because I know that this project will add value to Sharjah and the UAE generally.”

Shurooq CEO Marwan Al Sarkal added that the project’s phase two will involve the construction of Maliha National Desert Park over an area of 450 square kilometres. The park will serve as a wildlife reserve that will see the release of a range of animals such as the oryx, gazelles and the mountain deer, in collaboration with the Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority.

Shurooq allocated three areas within the project to be designated for resorts and bed-and-breakfast style hotels.