Mleiha Desert Experiences

Mleiha, in the heart of Sharjah’s interior, is one of the most significant archaeological landscapes in Arabia, with evidence of human presence stretching back to the Stone Age. Today it is protected as Mleiha National Park and managed by Shurooq, combining a modern museum with a menu of desert experiences set among red dunes, gravel plains and limestone outcrops.

Most visits begin at the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, whose galleries present tools, pottery, jewellery and burial finds that trace how communities lived here over thousands of years. Nearby sites include a Bronze Age Umm an-Nar tomb and the remains of a late pre-Islamic fort. From there, the landscape becomes the attraction: Fossil Rock, a peak scattered with marine fossils from a time when the area lay beneath the sea, and Camel Rock, a wind-sculpted formation that looks remarkably like its name.

Choose your adventure

Experiences currently offered include a one-hour dune buggy tour past landmarks such as Camel Rock, sandboarding on the dunes, horse riding for all levels, guided stargazing (Mleiha’s dark skies are a major draw), and desert glamping. Seasonal astronomy events, such as meteor-shower nights, are also scheduled. You can combine a museum visit with one or more activities to build a half-day or evening that suits your group.

Tell us which experiences interest you and your preferred date; we will confirm availability and final details on WhatsApp.