Mleiha National Park launches ‘Come Closer’ campaign

Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

Mleiha National Park, a cornerstone of Sharjah’s commitment to preserving its rich historical and ecological heritage, has announced the launch of their “Come Closer” campaign — an invitation to connect deeply with nature, culture, adventure, and history.

This new initiative underscores the park’s mission to offer an immersive experience, transporting visitors through over 200,000 years of human existence and natural wonder.

The 34.2 sq km park was established under the Emiri Decree by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to protect and preserve this important region.

Developed and managed by Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), they have now announced the completion of their fencing project encompassing the boundary in collaboration with the Directorate of Public Works (DPW).

Commenting on the announcement of this campaign, Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, stated: “The launch of our ‘Come Closer’ campaign and the completion of the Mleiha National Park fencing project marks a major milestone in our ongoing commitment to preserve and showcase Sharjah’s rich cultural and natural heritage.”

“This experiential destination, made possible through the visionary leadership of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and the passionate guidance of Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq, exemplifies our dedication to developing world-class destinations, offering a holistic tourist experience where visitors can explore history, culture, and nature all in one place.

The Mleiha National Park stands as a pillar to Sharjah’s commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation, inviting visitors to forge deeper connections with our past while inspiring future generations to cherish and protect our shared heritage,” the CEO added.

The campaign has been launched under 5 distinct themes that show the diverse and exciting experiences visitors can enjoy when visiting this historic wonder, namely, “Come Closer to Histor,” “Come Closer to Nature,” “Come Closer to the Stars,” “Come Closer to Culture,” and “Come Closer to Adventure.”

These curated themes effectively highlight the park’s unique ability to weave together heritage, conservation, and excitement in one extraordinary destination.

As an integral part of human history that spans over 200,000 years, Mleiha National Park serves as a gateway to the past, where ancient artefacts and stories of the region’s first settlers are brought to life.

The renowned Mleiha National Park Archaeological Centre, which forms the educational heart of the park, welcomes visitors to embark on a journey of discovery, from prehistoric tools to exhibits about the iconic Bronze Age tombs of Umm an-Nar.

Mleiha boasts a unique and special landscape with diverse topography, featuring rolling Barchan sand dunes, alluvial gravel plains, and limestone outcrops — all within just a few kilometers of each other.

This unique terrain allows specialist plants and animals to inhabit and thrive in their respective eco-habitats.

As a sanctuary for diverse flora and fauna, the park showcases the desert’s unique ecosystem where rare plants like the Arabian primrose and resilient Ghaf tree thrive alongside wildlife such as the Arabian red fox, desert gazelles, and the sandfish skink. These species demonstrate incredible adaptations to the region’s terrain and climate, creating a living testament to nature’s extraordinary resilience.

Mleiha’s remote desert location also offers an unparalleled astrological advantage, and with near-zero light pollution, the park transforms into a celestial haven, perfect for stargasing and astronomical observations.

Visitors can partake in guided stargazing tours, where the same constellations that once guided ancient wayfarers now dazzle the night sky.

Visitors can also immerse themselves in the traditional Arabian experience at the Sunset Lounges, where refreshments, BBQs, and stunning desert views provide a serene setting to unwind.