It protects turtle habitats, introduces eco-friendly boats, and reinforces sustainable tourism.
Sharjah: His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has intervened to stop the closure of a citizen-run tourism boat project in Kalba, directing a shift to environmentally friendly boats to protect the emirate’s fragile marine life.
The decision follows action by the Sharjah Economic Development Department (SEDD), which moved to shut down the “Abu Hamad” project after finding that traditional boat propellers posed a threat to rare turtles in the lake.
Speaking during a call on the “Direct Line” programme on Sharjah Radio and Television, Sheikh Dr Sultan assured the project owner of full support while reinforcing strict environmental protection measures.
“We reassure our son Abu Hamad — we will support him and ensure he can continue his work without loss,” Sheikh Dr Sultan said. “We will provide boats designed for such environments—boats that do not use propellers but operate in a way that does not harm these living creatures.”
He added that if such boats are not readily available, they will be specially manufactured and provided as support, enabling safe navigation through Kalba’s mangroves and natural habitats.
Respect for nature
Sheikh Dr Sultan stressed that human activity must not disturb wildlife, calling for strict adherence to environmental etiquette. “Do not create noise or disturbance in such places. These creatures have their own world and language. This is their environment and their kingdom, and humans must respect it,” he said.
Highlighting the ecological importance of the lake, he noted that it serves as a sanctuary for injured turtles. “Turtles come into the lake as if it were a hospital—some are injured or have lost limbs. They cannot see boat propellers, which is why we must eliminate such risks.”
Enhancing natural beauty
Alongside conservation efforts, Sharjah continues to develop Kalba’s landscape. Sheikh Dr Sultan said rocky areas near the lake are being cleared and replanted to enhance the visual appeal of the corniche, providing visitors with scenic views alongside existing seating areas.
Further developments at the Kalba waterfront include a winding water channel designed to improve water circulation, as well as the cleanup of saline patches that previously caused unpleasant odors.
Visitors will continue to enjoy boating experiences from key access points, including the flagpole area and the Fishermen’s Rest station near the creek entrance.
Firm stance on conservation
Reaffirming his long-standing environmental position, Sheikh Dr Sultan emphasized that protecting natural habitats remains a priority in all development decisions.
“We preserve natural places in the emirate and protect them. They had requested a large hotel on Kalba beach, and I refused because turtles live in this area. Nature protects them through this water strip,” he said.
“At the Kingfisher project, there is a type of turtle whose females only lay eggs in this place. They suggested building the hotel on a small area, and I also refused because these turtles flee from noise.”
“This is how I deal with nature and wildlife: I develop and build, and whoever does so does not destroy,” he added.
Opening soon
On upcoming projects, Sheikh Dr Sultan announced that the “Above the Clouds Rest House” is nearing completion and is expected to open by the end of this year or early next year.
Landscaping and final finishing works are under way, with tree planting already in progress.
“The opening day will, God willing, be a beautiful one, and people will enjoy its atmosphere. There is no place in Sharjah that I do not think about,” he said.
