The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced an investment of over AED300 million into the Sharjah Collection, a portfolio of seven luxury eco-retreats designed to promote wellness, heritage, and nature-based tourism across the emirate.
Together, the retreats feature 154 high-end accommodation units spread across Sharjah’s diverse landscapes from coastal mangroves and desert dunes to mountain valleys and heritage villages.
The investment comes as global wellness tourism continues to surge, with the sector projected to exceed US$1 trillion in 2025, according to the Global Wellness Institute. At the same time, Sharjah has seen an 11% rise in guest numbers in 2024, with international occupancy continuing to grow into 2025.
A Portfolio Rooted in Heritage and Nature
The Sharjah Collection offers travelers immersive and sustainable experiences across a variety of unique sites:
- Al Faya Retreat (Mleiha Desert): A boutique five-room property converted from 1960s buildings, offering panoramic desert views.
- Kingfisher Retreat (Kalba): 40 luxury tents nestled in a protected mangrove reserve, developed in collaboration with the Environment and Protected Areas Authority.
- Moon Retreat (Mleiha National Park): Domes and premium tents with curated activities such as stargazing, yoga, and guided exploration.
- Al Badayer Retreat (Sharjah’s Red Dunes): 46 units inspired by traditional caravanserai design, set within iconic sandscapes.
- Najd Al Meqsar (Khorfakkan): Seven restored heritage homes in the historic Wadi Wishi, blending culture and comfort.
- Al Rayaheen Retreat (Khorfakkan): 19 restored houses in the heart of the city’s historic core.
- Nomad (Kalba Mountain Valleys): Launching in Q4 2025, this retreat will feature 20 solar-powered trailers, offering guests a digital detox and deep nature immersion.
Sustainable Vision for Tourism
Each project integrates eco-conscious design, low-carbon operations, and measures to safeguard biodiversity, particularly in Kalba’s fragile ecosystems.
Commenting on the initiative, Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, said the retreats act as “living bridges between the visitor and the place preserving heritage while reintroducing local identity in a contemporary form.”
He added that the collection reflects Sharjah’s natural and cultural diversity, with every retreat tailored to echo the character of its environment.
Part of Sharjah’s Wider Hospitality Strategy
The Sharjah Collection forms part of Shurooq’s AED850 million hospitality portfolio and aligns with the emirate’s sustainable development strategy. The retreats aim to combine cultural authenticity with ecological balance while also creating employment opportunities and supporting the growth of slow travel.
By investing in these projects, Shurooq is reinforcing Sharjah’s position as a destination for travelers seeking meaningful, responsible, and nature-driven tourism experiences.
–Input WAM
