The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) is expanding its portfolio of hospitality projects and attractions with the development of a new adventure park in Khor Fakkan. This exciting venture will feature a zipline, swings, and hiking trails, according to Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq.

Al Qaseer stated, “We are developing Al Jabel Adventures in Khor Fakkan, which has become a popular destination for hiking and scuba diving, etc. We’ll have zipline, swings, Stobel gun rides, hiking and biking trails. It’s an exciting project that we hope to deliver towards the end of this year.”

Shurooq’s projects encompass various sectors, including hospitality, tourism, art, culture, and real estate. The authority has previously developed well-known sites in Sharjah, such as Moon Retreat, Al Badayer Retreat, Najad Al Meqsar, Al Majaz Waterfront, Al Qasba, Mleiha National Park, and Al Noor Island.

Currently, Shurooq operates five hotels and has plans to expand further. Al Qaseer mentioned that they are focusing on quality hospitality rather than merely the number of rooms. He highlighted, “We’re currently focusing on hospitality. Between the end of this year and next, we have three more hotels opening as we continue to grow our hospitality portfolio, focusing on niche developments.”

Among the new hotels is one connected to the Sharjah Safari, touted as the largest safari outside Africa, which will feature 35 rooms, and another 45-room hotel in Khor Fakkan situated on a mountain. Al Qaseer emphasized, “Shurooq is not in the business of selling rooms; we are in the business of selling experiences.”

He also pointed out Shurooq’s vision to transform Mleiha into a significant tourist and cultural hub, enriched by its history spanning 200,000 years. Al Qaseer explained, “Mleiha National Park consists of around 34 square kilometres with history talking about the Neolithic, Paleolithic Age, Iron Age, and all the way to the pre-Islamic Age.” The park will include a museum showcasing archaeological findings and a range of activities including sunset lounges.

As Mleiha attracts more visitors, local businesses, such as cafes and restaurants, are emerging to cater to the growing demand, thus engaging the surrounding communities.