Shurooq completes Phase 1 of Mleiha project
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The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) recently unveiled details of the completed phase one of the Mleiha archaeological and eco-tourism project.
The multiphase project will create a new tourist attraction in UAE and wider Arab region with an estimated AED 250 million expected to be invested in Mleiha over next few years. The Mleiha tourist destination has been created in the vicinity of various ruins and burial sites that date back to ancient times, some more than hundred thousands of years.
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, chairperson of Shurooq, said: “This project will add value to Sharjah and the UAE generally. Protect Mleiha was a very important decision as it is a living memory of our heritage and an integral part of our future. In this way we preserve our cultural history and ensure its place history. We intend to work towards promoting this important historical site in order to both protect it and bring visitors to it.”
HE Marwan bin Jassim Al Sarkal, CEO of Shurooq highlighted the first phase of the Mleiha Archaeological and Eco-tourism Project, which will be officially opened by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, member of the Supreme Council and ruler of Sharjah.
Al Sarkal said: “The project is implemented under directives of HH the Ruler of Sharjah and provides a new focal point in Shurooq’s strategy to attract investment to the Central and Eastern regions of Sharjah and create job opportunities for the local community. The project aims to highlight tourist and historical attractions, introduce the region’s rich cultural legacy and archaeological heritage and attract visitors, particularly nature and heritage lovers to the emirate of Sharjah.”
The centre will have archaeological finds on display, informative and educational displays with historical facts about the region, a café and lounges, interactive screens that display documentaries about Mleiha’s history, signboards with details about the area, a store for the brand ‘I Love Sharjah’, service facilities and administration offices.
Al Sarkal further revealed that Shurooq will soon embark of phase two of the Mleiha project in collaboration with relevant partners. The second phase will involve construction of Mleiha 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 (EPAA).
Phase Two will also see the establishment of an astronomy observatory in cooperation with the Sharjah Centre for Astronomy and Space Sciences, allowing for enthusiasts to enjoy the stars and sky from the center of Mleiha. Telescopes will be installed on the roof to allow tourists to get a glimpse of the stars and the wonders of space from Mleiha’s location.
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