Sharjah’s Eco-Tourism Revolution: Pioneering Sustainable Travel in the Middle East
Sharjah’s eco-tourism portfolio is transforming the landscape of sustainable travel in the region with several ambitious and innovative projects. One notable example is The Sharjah Collection, a series of retreats that offer visitors a unique opportunity to stay in protected areas and heritage sites recognized by the UN.
The Sharjah Collection: A Blend of Luxury and Sustainability
Sharjah’s eco-tourism portfolio is transforming the landscape of sustainable travel in the region with several ambitious and innovative projects. One notable example is **The Sharjah Collection**, a series of retreats that offer visitors a unique opportunity to stay in protected areas and heritage sites recognized by the UN.
It would not be an overstatement to assert that Sharjah is one of the largest providers of ecotourism not only in the UAE but also in the wider region,” Al Qaseer told Arabian Business. “We are serious stakeholders in UAE’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050 and the UN’s global Agenda 2030 for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Since our establishment in 2009, we have pioneered concepts and projects of varying sizes that set the benchmark for eco-conscious tourism at home and beyond.”
With a bold $2.75 billion foreign direct investment push, Sharjah is rapidly positioning itself as a pioneer in eco-tourism, blending luxury with sustainability in a way that’s not only attracting visitors but also setting new standards for environmentally conscious travel in the Middle East.
Key Eco-Tourism Projects in Sharjah
The Nomad Project
Set against the backdrop of the Kalba mountains, The Nomad Project features eco-friendly trailers that blend adventure tourism with ecological responsibility. “These trailers, nestled in Sharjah’s Kalba mountains, offer guests a unique experience as they connect with nature and discover ancient petroglyphs while leaving behind a minimal environmental impact,” Al Qaseer explained.
Al Faya Retreat
Another notable project is the boutique Al Faya Retreat, fashioned from 1960s stone buildings. Al Qaseer believes this project exemplifies Sharjah’s ability to repurpose historical structures into modern, eco-friendly accommodations. “It’s a perfect blend of Sharjah’s past and future,” he said.
Kingfisher Retreat
This retreat gives guests the chance to engage directly with environmental protection efforts, showcasing Sharjah’s commitment to sustainability.
Mysk Moon Retreat
One of Sharjah’s most innovative projects, the Mysk Moon Retreat, offers a unique desert experience with minimal environmental impact. It combines futuristic design with traditional Bedouin hospitality while adhering to strict ecological principles, demonstrating how luxury and sustainability can coexist.
Economic Impact and Future Prospects
The economic impact of Sharjah’s eco-tourism push has been significant. In 2023, Sharjah witnessed a staggering 2,064 percent increase in capital expenditure on greenfield FDI projects, with 19 new projects securing a total investment of $2.75 billion and creating over 1,500 jobs. The tourism sector, in particular, has been a strong performer, with impressive occupancy rates for the Sharjah Collection luxury hospitality properties—93 percent during high season and 72 percent during off-peak season.
As Sharjah continues to develop its eco-tourism sector, the emirate is setting its sights on becoming a global leader in sustainable travel. “Our goal is not just to attract visitors but to transform the way people think about travel. We want to show the world that luxury and sustainability are not mutually exclusive and that responsible tourism can be a powerful force for positive change,” said Al Qaseer.
Despite the success of Sharjah’s eco-tourism initiatives, challenges remain. Balancing development with conservation, managing visitor impact on sensitive ecosystems, and educating tourists about responsible travel practices are ongoing concerns. However, Al Qaseer sees these challenges as opportunities for innovation.
Sharjah’s investment in cultural tourism destinations like the House of Wisdom, Maraya Art Centre, and 1971 Design Space further intensifies its cultural appeal, with robust growth and investor interest anticipated this year. As global awareness of environmental issues continues to grow, destinations offering truly sustainable travel experiences will see increased demand. Sharjah is well-positioned to capitalize on this trend and is continually exploring new ways to enhance its eco-tourism offerings.
Conclusion
Sharjah’s eco-tourism initiatives represent a significant step forward in sustainable travel, blending luxury with environmental responsibility. By investing in innovative projects and embracing a holistic approach to sustainability, Sharjah is not only attracting visitors but also setting new standards for eco-conscious tourism in the Middle East. As the emirate continues to balance development with conservation, it is poised to become a global leader in sustainable travel, demonstrating that luxury and sustainability can indeed go hand in hand.