Spread over 12 sq km in the Khor Kalba area, Al Hefaiyah Conservation Centre is home to 30 native mountain and desert species. With successful wildlife conservation measures, this Kalba centre hosts various species native to the desert habitat. It is also one of the only parks in Sharjah with indoor exhibits, featuring snakes, lizards, hedgehogs and scorpions. Larger landscaped enclosures are dedicated to the Arabian leopard, wolf, tahr and caracal or desert lynx. For a family experience, ask for a guided tour. Children are encouraged to ask questions while the tour guides take you through the entire centre. For an express tour, especially as a larger group. ask to be taken in a golf carts.
If you thought that was the end of everything new you need to see in Sharjah? Well, think again because the humble cultural city has done it again, opening a new lake attraction called Al Hefaiyah Lake nestled in the mountains.
The lake was inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah on March 30, 2024. Judging by the photos, the attraction will once again have you questioning whether you’re still in Sharjah
Want to visit before it gets too hot? You will find the attraction on the Sharjah-Kalba Road, following the Al Hiyar Tunnel.
Al Hefaiyah Lake is one of Sharjah’s urban infrastructure development projects and will aim to serve as a strategic water reservoir for the city.
The area spans over 130,000 square meters and will feature a lake where visitors can partake in several activities including going on boat rides perfect for those lake tours.
There will be mountain trails which span 11.7 kilometres. There are a variety of difficulties and lengths, so anyone can give it a go. Trails to pick from include Al Hefaiyah Lake Trail, Eastern Mountain Trail, Southern Al Friesh Mountain Trail, Northern Al Friesh Mountain Trail, and Al Friesh Lake Trail. For little ones, there will be shaded play areas, too.
Al Hefaiyah Lake will also be home to Al Hefaiyah Mosque designed in Fatimid style and decorated with geometric and floral themes. It will feature a women’s prayer hall, an outdoor courtyard and an Islamic library.
Need to have a bite to eat? The new attraction includes the Al Hefaiyah Rest House with views of the lake and Kalba’s high mountains, the Hanging Gardens, green spaces and more. While it’s cool, you can sit alfresco in the covered outdoor courtyard.
We can’t wait to visit!
Al Hefaiyah Lake opens to the public just weeks after the opening of the Hanging Gardens. If you haven’t heard of Hanging Gardens, the attraction in Kalba is home to a huge waterfall, hike trails, rest houses, kids’ play areas and more.
