Tag Archives: Shurooq

Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced the opening of two new parks in the Al Rahmaniyah neighbourhood in Sharjah including a female-only park. Managed by Shurooq under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the adjoining Kshisha and Shaghrafa parks feature social, entertainment, sports, and educational facilities, and have a combined built area of 147,700 sqm.  Dedicated to families, the Kshisha Park hosts football and volleyball courts, a library, amphitheater, fitness hub, jogging, and cycling tracks, playgrounds, skateboard range, and specially designed halls for holding workshops. Moreover, it houses an artificial pond with a duck feeding station with clear feeding instructions for visitors. Designed exclusively for females, Shaghrafa Park contains dedicated halls for conducting workshops, and features play areas, a theatre, jogging track, gym, and basket and volleyball courts. Visitors can bring their own food into the parks, although on-site barbeques are prohibited. Shurooq is currently working on adding designated barbeque spots at both parks. Visitors to Kshisha Park can pre-book the football field for AED 250 per hour or AED 450 for two hours at specific time slots, the volleyball court will be charged at AED 150 for an hour and 250 for two hours. At Shaghrafa, visitors will have free access to both the basketball and volleyball courts. Booing sports field in both parks are via a dedicated WhatsApp number The park’s facilities are open from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday through Wednesday. Visiting hours extend until 11 p.m. on Thursday – Saturday and official holidays, and from 12 p.m. until 11 p.m. during the Holy month of Ramadan. However, the jogging tracks …

Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) is gearing up to cross a brand new milestone in its journey of transforming Sharjah into a vibrant hub for sustainable eco-tourism in the region. The authority has announced that the family-friendly Moon Retreat, which will be the fourth eco-luxury retreat to join Shurooq’s Sharjah Collection brand, managed by Mysk by Shaza, is all set to welcome overnight guests – desert adventurers and glampers alike – from around the world in Q1 of 2021, when the UAE’s weather is ideal for immersing in the flurry of outdoor activities and nature-inspired experiences that the archaeologically rich Mleiha region has on offer. Khawla Al Hashimi, Director of Project Development at Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), said, “Moon Retreat offers camping enthusiasts, tourists and visitors of all ages looking to explore the region’s most stunning natural attractions, an unparalleled opportunity to indulge in unique holiday experiences and relax in nature, away from the hustle of the city. It is a part of Shurooq’s broader vision and mission to bolster the existing offerings at the Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-tourism destination, transforming this historic land of archaeological wonders into a fully-integrated and serviced community for tourists and visitors looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure experience in the UAE.” She added, “Developing such eco-friendly retreats continues to position Sharjah as the hub of responsible tourism in the region. Shurooq’s eco-tourism projects have contributed significantly to helping tourists and visitors connect with our heritage and nature while playing a great role in boosting the emirate’s leisure and cultural status across the global tourism sector.  They not only contribute to making a positive impact on the environment and economy but also help …

XQuarry Off-Road & Adventure Park located around Al Faya Mountain in Mleiha desert in Sharjah opened on February 5, 2021 offering off-roading thrill, obstacle races, hikes and remote- control cars, guaranteeing unbeatable fun, action and adventure. XQuarry Adventure Park, UAE’s first Off-Road and Adventure Park caters to off-roaders and adventure -seekers with almost 15km of tracks, 20 custom- build off-roading obstacles, a dedicated obstacle running course, mountain bike trails, a remote-control car area as well as hiking trails. Spread across approximately a million square metres of an old cement quarry, XQuarry offers a range of adventurous and fun activities for people of all ages and fitness levels, featuring Off -Roading, Obstacle Running, Mountain Biking, Hiking and Remote-Controlled Cars. XQuarry Adventure Park provides the opportunity for all to escape the ordinary, explore thrilling and challenging activities and immerse themselves in a fun-filled day amidst magnificent desert scenario. The focus of the park is to provide outdoor training and education for people to learn and master their skills to act safe and responsible in the outdoors. The XQuarry Off-Road and Adventure Park has been created in close co-operation and strategic partnership with Mleiha and Sharjah Investment and Development Authority – Shurooq (Sharjah Government). Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Chief Operating Officer, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) said, “The new adventure park, being first of its kind in the UAE, will provide a set of completely different experiences for off-roading enthusiasts and adventure lovers and will give more reasons to explore Sharjah’s central region.” Saoud Al Kaabi, Director and Partner, XQuarry Off-Road and Adventure Park said, “I love the silence and tranquility of the desert and mountains especially after busy days on film …

HE Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, Executive Chairman, Shurooq said, “Tourism has long been a leading employer and an economic pillar for nations worldwide. Sharjah, the third largest emirate of the UAE, has been hailed by global travellers and industry experts alike as a regional hub for unique local, nature-inspired and environment friendly experiences. For over a decade, Shurooq has envisioned and delivered tourism and hospitality projects that celebrate the emirate’s history, cultural richness and natural diversity. With over 10 successful projects in the sector, Shurooq has turned its attention to driving investments to the central and eastern regions of Sharjah with an undertaking of four large-scale projects in Khorfakkan, Kalba, Al Dhaid and Mleiha. It would be fitting to mention here, that the spirit behind these projects is very much in alignment with the theme of this year’s World Tourism Day, ‘Tourism and Rural Development’.” “Along with our vision to enhance tourist experiences by allowing them explorations across all regions of Sharjah, Shurooq’s ambition is to leverage the unique role tourism plays in providing opportunities outside city centres, and preserving our cultural and natural heritage,” Al Sarkal concluded.

His Excellency Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, Executive Chairman of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), revealed that the Authority will be undertaking four new large-scale tourism and hospitality projects in Khorfakkan, Kalba, Al Dhaid and Mleiha The strategic undertaking follows Shurooq’s vision of transforming Sharjah as a leading hub of nature-inspired experiences, and brings the emirate’s central and eastern regions within the folds of its ambitious plans. Al Sarkal has noted that the new developments follow the wise directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to materialise key infrastructural projects which would further boost Sharjah’s appeal as a go-to destination for as well overseas travellers as well as UAE citizens and residents by allowing them access to the unique heritage and diverse natural landscapes that make up the many cities and regions of the culturally rich emirate. He noted, “We are all set to begin the construction of two five-star hotels at scenic locations in Sharjah’s eastern region – the first 66-key property will be located along the Khorfakkan Beach and be home to the city’s first waterpark. The second one will stand adjacent to Kalba Waterfront, the major retail project being developed in phases by Shurooq and Eagle Hills.” He explained, “The two hotels are being developed to promote both Sharjah’s tourism and investment appeal, in the eastern region in particular. Shurooq has been at the forefront of advocating for responsible investments to promote sustainable, diversified and cross-sectoral growth, and we believe these new projects will offer investors in retail, tourism, hospitality and real-estate lucrative and high-yielding opportunities.”

Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) sought to create an exclusive local experience, repurposing with robust, sustainable materials what remained of a stone structure originally constructed during the 1960’s; originally comprising of two stone buildings, one of which was a medical centre and the second a store near one of the oldest fueling stations in the Mleiha region, which served as a focal access point for commuters passing through from the neighbouring emirates. Developed under the Sharjah Collection brand, and operated and managed by Mysk by Shaza, Shurooq reinforced its emphasis on site-responsive criteria to govern the design, architectural interventions and choice of materials in construction when re-imagining the existing structure. Sustainability, thus, emerged as an integral element in reimagining this decades-old structure, which Shurooq masterfully transformed into an elegant contemporary boutique luxury retreat. Across the road is a café featuring locally sourced products. Use of glass water bottles, tree planting initiatives, and a host of recycling practices further elevates the environmental friendly policies in place at Al Faya Retreat. Perfectly blending history, culture, heritage, leisure and luxury, this oasis of relaxation is an ideal abode for those looking to escape the intensity of urban living or wishing to set off on rugged adventures in a desert setting. The commitment to sustainability does not end with a tribute to the vernacular architecture of the region alone; instead, it is ingrained in the ethical practices that the hotel complies with in its daily operations. The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah embraces sustainable alternatives such as steel straws, glass bottles, biodegradable garbage bags, and metal room keys to eliminate the use of plastic. Its portable water filtration plant produces both still and sparkling …

Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) is going the extra mile to ensure that all its hospitality, ecotourism and leisure destinations, which are scheduled to open in a phased manner, will strictly adhere to the UAE government’s health and safety protocols to ensure the highest levels of protection of all their visitors, residents and staff. Shurooq has announced the completion of a sterilisation and disinfection drive across its properties, and has opened its doors to their popular leisure and entertainment destinations, Al Qasba, Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Noor Island, The Flag Island, Heart of Sharjah, Mleiha Archaeological & Ecotourism Project, Khorfakkan Beach, Maraya Art Centre and 1971-Design Space In addition, its state-of-the-art City Sightseeing Sharjah (CSS) buses have begun to ply, transporting guests to tourist sites across the emirate. Shurooq’s hospitality offerings including The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah and all three Sharjah Collection properties – Al Badayer Retreat, Al Faya Retreat and Kingfisher Retreat – are offering attractive staycation packages for individuals, couples and families, and will be offering these hotel stays in line with the UAE’s precautionary health instructions and guidelines aimed at combating the spread of COVID-19. According to Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, COO of Shurooq, “We are therefore working closely with the government authorities to ensure that the highest standards of hygiene are maintained, and that all recommended precautionary and preventive measures are in place for our guests to enjoy a well-rounded destination experience. Shurooq has a single-minded approach in enforcing these protocols and expect our guests to fully cooperate and take individual responsibility for their own safety and well-being while visiting all our destinations. We look forward to welcoming them again.”

Al Faya Retreat and the Al Badayer Retreat situated in the Al Badayer desert, which are part of the ‘Sharjah Collection’ – the luxury hospitality brand of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), managed by ‘Mysk by Shaza’, were visited by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. During the tour, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah gained detailed insights into the world-class facilities which are being offered by both retreats, and their distinctive features which position them as one of the major eco-friendly and heritage hospitality property in the UAE. During his visit at Al Faya Retreat, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi was introduced to all the modern and cultural elements infused into the one-of-its-kind luxury destination. Originally built in the 1960s as two stone buildings, one of which was a medical centre and the second a store near one of the oldest and most important fuelling stations in Sharjah and the UAE for local commuters, Al Faya Retreat was restored using elements that reflect the general nature of the desert environment. Its floor-to-ceiling windows allow visitors to enjoy stargazing at night. His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah also visited the Al Badayer Retreat, a first-of-its-kind picturesque desert retreat in the UAE that offers luxury hospitality services in the heart of the tranquil Al Badayer desert in Sharjah, where he was introduced to the retreat and its full range of world-class services. The design of Al Badayer Retreat is inspired by the UAE heritage, and allows visitors access to a unique tourism experience in the heart of the desert in the central region of Sharjah central …

The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) showcased a selection of its eight luxurious boutique-style projects and eco-destinations and share the latest updates on Sharjah’s booming tourism sector at the World Travel Market (WTM) 2019, to be held from November 4 – 6, in London, UK. The ‘Sharjah Collection’ brand, operated and managed by Mysk by Shaza, will be one of Shurooq’s key highlights for WTM 2019 visitors and industry experts visiting the Sharjah Pavilion led by Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA). All three destinations under the brand are now fully operational, and WTM London is an opportunity for global travel buyers and hospitality professionals to take a closer look at each one’s unique offerings. The boutique hotels and eco-retreats promoted under the ‘Sharjah Collection’ brand includes Kingfisher Lodge, a 5-star nature retreat and fully-equipped tented lodge that opens out to the pristine mangrove ecosystem at Al Qurm Nature Reserve in Kalba; Al Faya Lodge, a luxury stay built using sustainable and robust materials, set amidst the dramatic desert landscape of Mleiha; and Al Badayer Oasis, a castle-style desert resort featuring luxurious rooms and traditional tents overlooking the sweeping sand dunes of central Sharjah.  Through these three projects, Shurooq seeks to showcase its vision for developing ecotourism projects that are inspired by the country’s rich historical and cultural heritage and designed in a contemporary, stylish setting. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Chief Operating Officer, Shurooq, said, “At WTM 2019 in London, Shurooq aims to highlight its emphasis on sustainable tourism development, promote responsible tourism, and underscore the potential of ecotourism in the conservation of natural and cultural heritage. By focusing on sustainable tourism projects, we are doubling our efforts …

It was an evening of celebration at the Westin Mina Seyahi Hotel and Marina when the third edition of the Arabian Travel Awards concluded last night with over 60 awards of recognition for stalwarts in the industry of travel, tourism, hospitality, visa services etc. Mr. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, Chief Operating Officer, Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), graced the occasion as Chief Guest, with Gladrags Mrs. India Anita Mishra as a special Guest of Honour. In the opening speech, Managing Director and Convener for Arabian Travel Awards, SanJeet, stated that this year there were nearly 200,000 entries submitted which were then shortlisted. He continued, “I would just like to thank all your efforts, it is thanks to you that tourism is responsible for 10 per cent of the world’s GDP, responsible for one in five jobs in the future and within the region, again thanks to your efforts, tourism is one of the fastest growing sectors responsible for nearly 25 per cent of jobs. The MENA region welcomed 87 million international tourists last year which marked a 10 per cent growth from 2017. Congratulations to all of you for being part of such a growing, innovative and successful industry. The Arabian Travel Awards have been convened to recognise this excellence, hard-work and success. Today tourism is synonymous with progress, development and opportunity.” Mr. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer stated the many efforts taken by Shurooq with an investment of AED 130 mn towards developing the emirate into a luxurious eco-tourism destination. He further reiterated the many projects in line to ensure that the rich heritage, culture and archaeological tourism is further enhanced in the emirate.