Mleiha Park records 100+ species of flora, fauna in its habitat
SHARJAH (WAM) Mleiha National Park has conducted an ecological assessment, recording the presence of over 100 distinct species within its protected desert landscape. These include more than 20 bird species, over 10 reptile species, 11 mammal species, 39 insect and arachnid species, and 20+ native plant species solidifying Mleiha's position as one of the most ecologically rich and diverse environments in the Arabian Peninsula.Mleiha National Park, an ecological, ecotourism, and conservation destination in the heart of Sharjah's central region, spans 34.2 square kilometres of protected desert terrain and is operated by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). Established by the Emiri decree, Mleiha has become a living desert museum, home to rare fossils, ancient artefacts, and thriving biodiversity. These findings affirm its role as a cornerstone of Sharjah's long-term strategy for conservation, eco-tourism, and sustainable development.With 20+ documented native plant species, Mleiha's flora is not only diverse but essential to the park's ecosystem. These plants have evolved to withstand extreme arid conditions, playing critical roles in desert resilience. Key species such as the Ghaf Tree (Prosopis cineraria), Umbrella Thorn Acacia (Vachellia tortilis), and Sodom's Apple (Calotropis procera) contribute to soil stabilisation, regulate moisture retention, and create microhabitats for smaller species. Other important flora like Dune Grass and Arfaj help anchor dunes and provide seasonal fodder for herbivores.The fauna of Mleiha includes 11+ species of mammals adapted to desert conditions, including the Arabian Red Fox (Vulpes vulpes arabica) and Sand Gazelle (Gazella marica). Among its 10 reptile species are elusive desert dwellers like the Sandfish Skink (Scincus mitranus) and the Arabian Horned Viper (Cerastes gasperettii).Birdwatchers can observe 20+ species of birds year-round, including Bonelli's Eagle (Aquila fasciata), Purple Sunbird (Cinnyris asiaticus), Common Kestrel (Falco tinnunculus), and migratory visitors that use Mleiha as a seasonal stopover.With 39+ identified species, the park's insect and arachnid population includes key contributors to pollination, soil health, and natural pest control. These invertebrates form the foundation of many food chains within the park. Highlights include the Carpenter Bee (Xylocopa pubescens), one of the largest native bees and a vital pollinator; the venomous Arabian Fat-Tailed Scorpion (Androctonus crassicauda), a desert predator; and the Blue Pansy Butterfly (Junonia orithya), which plays a seasonal role in pollination. Lesser-known species like antlions, ground mantises, and camel spiders also contribute to the delicate ecological balance.Visitors to Mleiha can experience this biodiversity through curated activities such as nature trails, fossil and flora walks, and wildlife observation. These programmes are central to the park's mission to promote environmental awareness and support the UAE's long-term sustainability goals.'What makes Mleiha exceptional is its ability to merge ecological significance with economic value,' said Omar Jasim Al Ali, Manager, of Mleiha and Strategic Projects. 'The biodiversity of this landscape is a natural capital that drives tourism, supports conservation-linked livelihoods, and enhances Sharjah's reputation as a regional leader in sustainable development. Protecting and showcasing these species responsibly is both an environmental responsibility and a long-term economic strategy.'
Mleiha National Park remains open year-round, welcoming nature lovers, researchers, students, and travellers to discover the rich biodiversity of the UAE's inland desert.
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5 days ago
- Gulf Today
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Mleiha National Park invites minds to discover unique experiences
With a range of educational experiences designed to bring history and ancient heritage to the forefront, the park serves as a perfect escape for those interested in expanding their historical knowledge and wonder; whether it's families and the general public, academic institutions, or cultural enthusiasts and history buffs; allowing them to come closer to history. Established through the visionary leadership of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah; and developed and operated by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), Mleiha National Park safeguards over 34.2 square kilometres of pristine and awe inspiring landscapes, a gateway to Arabia's ancient legacy, grounded in decades of meticulous research and findings led by the Sharjah Archaeology Authority (SAA). Ancient cosmopolitan hub Revealing Mleiha's extraordinary scientific value, this area has been excavated since 1973 with collaborative efforts from leading archaeologists from around the world. Through the years SAA has announced discoveries including Stone Age tools from Jebel Faya documenting ancient human migration, a monumental 4,500-year-old Umm an-Nar tomb preserved intact beneath the park's Archaeological Centre, along with compelling evidence of a powerful trading kingdom that thrived between the 3rd century BCE and 3rd century CE, as referenced in Greco-Roman texts. Among the most striking finds is Arabia's only known ritual horse-and-camel burial, a testament to the site's unique cultural practices. Mediterranean amphorae, locally minted coins inspired by those of Alexander the great and his Seleucid successors' currency, and South Arabian inscriptions further attest to Mleiha's role as an ancient cosmopolitan hub. Through a unique partnership; with Shurooq delivering world-class visitor experiences and sustainable infrastructure and SAA guaranteeing scientific integrity; this makes Mleiha a global model for heritage tourism. Diverse experiences to enrich the mind Aligned with the park's core ethos of history and education, the Mleiha Archaeological Centre allows visitors to encounter authentic and priceless artifacts. These include a wide range of arrowheads from the stone and iron ages, ancient coins; including those modeled after Alexander the Great's currency; Rhodian wine jars, and ancient inscriptions. With the addition of interactive displays and multimedia presentations, the centre brings the past vividly to life proving an experience that goes far beyond the museum walls. Mleiha also offers a diverse array of educational activities and adventures that transport visitors back in time, making history accessible and engaging for all age groups. Programmes like the 'Fossil Fun Expedition' invite young explorers to become paleontologists for the day, crafting fossil casts from real finds and learning about ancient seabeds and the creatures that once inhabited them. Interactive workshops such as 'Sounds of the Past' allow participants to experience ancient tool-making techniques, while the Valley of the Caves Tour and Jebel Buhais Tour immerse visitors in the daily life and burial practices of Neolithic and Iron Age communities. For those fascinated by the wonders of the universe, the Space Camp workshop offers an engaging introduction to astronomy and observational techniques through hands-on activities, where participants use high-powered telescopes to explore celestial objects in the night sky. One of the highlights of the workshop is the chance to create a model comet using dry ice and various compounds, simulating the makeup of real comets while discovering their significance within our solar system. These tailored educational programmes also ensure meaningful learning for every age and interest, where school groups engage in hands-on discovery through supervised fossil hunts and archaeological sites explorations, making history tangible and intriguing. University students and researchers are able to delve even deeper with specialised programmes analysing ancient trade systems or settlement patterns. For families and groups, activities that combine adventure with learning, guide guests across archaeological sites, geological formations, and hidden wadis, and the Standard Educational Package provides a comprehensive introduction to the region's flora, fauna, geology, and archaeology, with hands-on workshops and guided site visits that cater to students and lifelong learners alike. 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Sharjah unveils summer playground through 18 destinations including longest beachfronts, adventures
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Kingfisher Retreat in Kalba; accessible either by private boat or via golf cart transfer from the parking area; offers private waterfront tents nestled within a protected mangrove forest, blending marine views with complete seclusion. Al Faya Retreat, resting within the incredible desert landscape of Sharjah, features meticulously restored historic buildings transformed into a contemporary sanctuary with private saltwater pools and a self-operated spa featuring a Himalayan salt inhalation room with desert views, herbal sauna, sun room, and swimming pool. Al Badayer Retreat, an authentically styled desert fort surrounded by majestic dunes, immerses guests in Bedouin-inspired luxury with private plunge pools, an amphitheatre, health club, stargazing decks, and curated desert excursions like dune and camel tours. 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A new season of discovery While Shurooq's diverse destinations shine as must-do experiences throughout the year, they offer the perfect curated escape from the summer heat. From relaxing beach days and thrilling waterparks to enriching cultural discoveries, serene heritage escapes, and nature-driven luxury, every location provides exceptional experiences without compromise, making Sharjah an essential destination this summer. For more information and to plan your itinerary, visit .
