Protected coastal habitat and scenic seating set to transform Khorfakkan’s shoreline.
SHARJAH: His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has highlighted Khorfakkan’s natural assets as ideal for several significant development projects aimed at improving residents’ quality of life and enhancing the visitor experience.
Sheikh Dr. Sultan unveiled plans for a protected reserve along Al Qalqali Beach in Khorfakkan, internationally registered under the Emirate of Sharjah as part of “Khorfakkan City.” The reserve is home to a rare species of lizard found exclusively in the area.
He emphasized that this unique species has been officially documented and internationally recognized, underscoring the emirate’s strong commitment to preserving its natural heritage.
Speaking during a telephone intervention on the “Direct Line” programme broadcast by Sharjah Radio and Television, Sheikh Dr. Sultan explained that the reserve has been designated a restricted area to safeguard this exceptional ecological feature.
He explained that the lizards live in burrows beneath rocky outcrops along the shoreline, emerging to feed on the small crabs that inhabit the area.
Due to their global rarity, the species is afforded strict protections, including a complete prohibition on public access.
At the same time, Sheikh Dr. Sultan highlighted a complementary project designed to allow people to enjoy the surrounding landscape without disturbing the protected habitat.
Plans include the creation of elevated seating areas along nearby slopes, offering sweeping views of the coastline in a peaceful and unobtrusive setting.
The initiative, to be carried out in partnership with Sharjah Islamic Bank, will provide residents and visitors with a safe and scenic vantage point, especially once the new access road is completed.
His Highness also emphasized that the reserve itself is unsuitable for recreational activities, including swimming, due to the natural presence of sharks in the waters.
Turning to broader infrastructure, Sheikh Dr. Sultan confirmed that work is underway to provide essential services for residential areas near Al Musalla in Khorfakkan, including road paving and the installation of drainage systems.
He also stressed the importance of preserving the city’s distinctive black mountain landscapes, which will remain untouched. Carefully selected tree planting, supervised by specialists, will be implemented to enhance air quality through carbon absorption and oxygen production.
The goal is to transform this natural basin in Khorfakkan into a cooler, greener, and more welcoming space for residents and visitors.
Sheikh Dr. Sultan emphasized that these projects are ultimately designed to serve the community, guided by thoughtful planning and a deep understanding of the emirate’s natural and economic strengths.
He expressed confidence that Khorfakkan’s ongoing development will improve residents’ quality of life while providing visitors with an increasingly enriching and rewarding experience.
