Mleiha, in the Sharjah desert, is less than an hour’s drive from Dubai and is well-known for its fossil rock, archaeological sites, cave paths, camping areas, and more. But soon, Mleiha National Park, a brand-new attraction, will draw large tourists.
However, it’s not the kind of park you had in mind. In an effort to preserve Sharjah’s rich historical legacy, Mleiha National Park will turn a portion of the desert into a park that will highlight the ancient gems of the area from 200,000 years ago. Visitors will be able to appreciate its historical significance and natural beauty thanks to ecotourism and sustainable tourism strategies.
The core portion of Sharjah, a 34-square-kilometer desert, is about to undergo a transformation. The region was chosen because it contains the earliest evidence of human occupancy found outside of Africa, according to archaeologists.
What to expect?
The Core Conservation Zone will prioritise protecting the environment and providing habitat for wildlife. While the Hybrid Zone will work as a compromise between conservation and sustainable tourist practices, Ecotourism Zones offer eco-stays, experiences, and educational opportunities.
The park will offer chances for scientific research, leisure activities, and educational programmes once it opens.
Hunting, destroying geographical areas, and other actions that compromise the park’s values will be outlawed. Only stringent clearances will be granted for construction and activities in the park’s environs.
When will it be prepared? Although there is no set timeline for completion, work is currently continuing. However, it’s not the kind of park you had in mind. In an effort to preserve Sharjah’s rich historical legacy, Mleiha National Park will turn a portion of the desert into a park that will highlight the ancient gems of the area from 200,000 years ago. Visitors will be able to appreciate its historical significance and natural beauty thanks to ecotourism and sustainable tourism strategies.
Fun fact: Mleiha is highly significant to the emirate and the UAE because it is one of the nominees for a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
