Latest news with #SharjahCollection


Khaleej Times
28-05-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Shurooq sees real estate portfolio expand at 48.9% CAGR
The real estate portfolio of Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has been growing at a compound annual growth rate of 48.9 per cent between 2018 and 2024. The entity has sold over 4,100 residential units to buyers from more than 98 nationalities. 'Our developments are designed to be lived in — not just occupied. We focus on human-scale design, integration with nature, cultural resonance, and accessibility, ensuring that every project is built around the people who will call it home,' Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, told Khaleej Times in an interview. With investments exceeding Dh5 billion in real estate alone, Shurooq reinforcing Sharjah's position as a competitive investment destination in the UAE and beyond. Over the past 15 years, Shurooq has announced Dh7.2 billion in investments across 52 groundbreaking projects and experiences, transforming over 60 million square feet throughout the emirate. Shurooq's hospitality portfolio, including properties of Shurooq's flagship hospitality brand, Sharjah Collection, and the upcoming LUX resorts, has set new benchmarks for luxury and heritage tourism. 'Our hospitality philosophy goes beyond luxury; it is about memory-making, cultural immersion, and human connection. With the Sharjah Collection, we have created sanctuaries that speak to the soul — destinations where travellers can slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience the authenticity of Emirati heritage. Whether it's glamping in Mleiha or waking up to the sounds of nature in Kalba, each destination is a carefully crafted narrative,' Al Qaseer said. A major project by Shurooq is Sharjah Sustainable City. 'Beyond the solar panels and energy-efficient infrastructure, what makes this project remarkable is its ability to empower families to live healthier, more meaningful lives. Reduced utility bills, cleaner air, green spaces for children to play — these are tangible benefits that improve the daily lives of residents,' Al Qaseer said. The entity's upcoming resorts in partnership with The Lux Collective, LUX Khorfakkan and LUX Al Bridi, are expected to introduce a new layer of refinement to the tourism scene, while retaining the spirit of place that defines us. 'What gives us a competitive edge is our ability to create emotional touchpoints — guests leave with stories. We curate experiences that honour the land, its people, and its future,' Al Qaseer said. Shurooq has successfully partnered with international brands such as Eagle Hills and The Lux Collective. 'Partnerships are, at their best, about shared purpose. We select our partners at Shurooq for their technical capability, but most importantly for their alignment with our values. Our collaboration with Eagle Hills on Maryam Island and with The Lux Collective on our upcoming resorts is built on mutual respect and a shared ambition to uplift communities. These alliances allow us to elevate Sharjah's offerings while preserving the human element that is central to our development philosophy,' Al Qaseer said. Shurooq's cultural tourism with heritage destinations include projects like The Chedi Al Bait and Najd Al Meqsar. 'Heritage is not something to be showcased behind glass — it must be lived, experienced, and felt. This belief drives our work in cultural preservation. At The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah, and Najd Al Meqsar in Khorfakkan, we have transformed historic structures into living spaces that honour the past while serving the present. We restored buildings not just for architectural value, but for the stories they hold and the lives they once nurtured,' Al Qaseer said. As Shurooq looks ahead, a number of projects remain in focus. 'We are excited about Ajwan in Khorfakkan, which will transform the East Coast into a haven of oceanfront living. Projects like Nomad and Al Rayaheen Retreat reflect our belief in low-impact, high-value tourism that respects the natural environment. The expansion of the Sharjah Collection, and our continued partnerships with luxury brands, signal a shift from volume to value — from mass tourism to meaningful engagement. Our upcoming projects will continue to prioritise community impact, sustainability, and unique storytelling,' Al Qaseer said. Al Qaseer began his journey in Shurooq nearly two decades ago. 'I began with the vision to create spaces that bring people together. Today, as CEO of Shurooq, that vision remains unchanged, though it has grown in scale and depth. Leadership, to me, is about listening — listening to the land, to the needs of our communities, and to the aspirations of our youth. It is about building teams who share a sense of purpose, and guiding them with humility and clarity,' he said.


What's On
25-05-2025
- What's On
How to spend the perfect weekend in Khorfakkan
You can kickstart the fun before you reach the heart of Khorfakkan by stopping off at Al Rafisah Dam. About 10 minutes outside of the central area, this picturesque enclave has existed since the 1980s but has been recently redeveloped to make it more tourist-friendly. As such, you can now enjoy walks, hikes and kayaking around the serene lake. For stretching views, enjoy a short climb up the side of a mountain to the castle, or for a more low-tempo morning, stroll along to the manmade waterfall. 11am: Brunch at a novelty café A striking structure at Khorfakkan's resistance monument, Railway Café has been uniquely designed to resemble a train station, albeit one of beautiful glass and geometric structures. Pick up a hot or cold coffee at the brew platform, or grab an espresso from espresso station, and order sweet treats like date pudding, French toast, or the Instagrammable kunafa cheesecake. Breakfast is served until 2pm, and features favourites like scrambled egg on toast, shakshuka, and eggs Florentine. @ 1pm: Soak up the local sights One of Khorfakkan's crowning features, the Roman-esque Khorfakkan Amphitheatre is a must-visit in Khorfakkan. A celebrated local landmark, it can accommodate more than 3,500 spectators and has been designed with a state-of-the-art cooling system, making it a year-round attraction. Admire the architecture, walk the tiered steps that gaze towards the stage, and make a pit stop at the amphitheatre restaurant. Next door, the Khorfakkan waterfall is another towering structure you won't want to miss. Stretching some 45 metres, it's carved out of natural rock, and the windows at the top open for visitors at regular intervals, for those looking to enjoy the best views. 5pm: Step back in time at Souk Sharq Be transported back in time at Souk Sharq, an old market styled as a tribute to the UAE's yesteryear. Wander the halls and enjoy the sights, aromas and sounds that drift from the market stalls, picking up heritage crafts, handmade souvenirs, and sampling local flavours at the many restaurants and cafes dotted throughout. The market also houses the Traditional Craft Museum, well worth a visitor to delve deeper into the history of Khorfakkan (it's free to enter, too). 8pm: Bed down in a heritage hotel While there are several modern hotels under construction in Khorfakkan, for a taste of the traditional check-in to Najd Al Meqsar. Arguably one of the most unique stays in the UAE, the Sharjah Collection property has transformed a traditional mountain village into a boutique heritage hotel of just seven 'Kareen Houses', each a one-bedroom abode filled with charming traditional features. While free WiFi, AC and Smart TVs have been added, the hand-hewn wooden beams, stone walls and thatched roofs remain. Room rates start from Dhs720. @najdalmeqsar 6am: Enjoy a sunrise hike To really make the most of this scenic enclave, set your alarm early and head out on a morning hike to catch the sun dramatically lift over the calm waters of the sea. The Al Rabi Mountain trail is one of the most popular and easy hikes in the UAE – clearly marked so that it's suitable for all abilities. While the trail does get steep at times, the views across the Hajjar mountains and Khorfakkan landmarks are rewarding. Make a pit stop at The View by Wave and treat yourself to a nourishing post-hike breakfast. @theviewbywave 9am: Relax on the beach The golden sands of this natural beauty make for a lovely spot to bask in the sunshine, but the corniche along Khorfakkan beach is also dotted with plenty of family-friendly spots to enjoy. Stroll along the scenic promenade and make lunch plans around pretty restaurants like chic seaside spot Pentagon ( @pentagonuae ), Mangrove Café ( @ ) or casual Italian restaurant, Vinci ( @vincirestaurantuae ). There's a play area for little ones to burn off some steam, tennis courts available for hire, and watersports available too. @khorfakkanbeach 1pm: Discover the colourful marine life on a boat trip to Shark Island Those with a penchant for adventure should head to Khorfakkan port and take a boat out to Shark Island, officially called Sira Khorfakkan, a small island five minutes off the coast of the beach. The crystal waters are home to a phenomenal variety of marine life and is so clear that you'll likely be able to see the shoals of fish swimming by from the boat. But the underwater world is best enjoyed with a snorkelling session, where you might also see rays and black tip reef sharks. 4pm: Pick up a coffee for the drive home After a weekend of thrills, it's time to head home – but not without taking a small diversion to Medellin, a speciality coffee spot where you can order via drivu and have your coffee delivered to the car. @ > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in


Sharjah 24
14-05-2025
- Sharjah 24
3 Shurooq hospitality projects ranked among top 10% hotels
The ranking is based on the quality and excellence of the hospitality experience offered, including unique stays in diverse natural settings with a focus on sustainability, local identity, and world-class culinary experiences curated by Michelin-starred chefs. This recognition reflects Shurooq's ongoing commitment to creating hospitality destinations that combine luxury with culture and history, offering guests the opportunity to engage with Emirati heritage in authentic environments that embody the spirit of place. The ranking is based on guest reviews on Tripadvisor, one of the world's leading travel platforms, where destinations are assessed according to service quality, cleanliness, comfort, and the overall guest experience—highlighting high levels of visitor satisfaction and delight. The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah Managed by GHM Hotels and located in the Heart of Sharjah, 'The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah' blends traditional Emirati architecture with contemporary comfort. With 65 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, the hotel features a spa, fitness centre, library, fine-dining restaurants, and an on-site heritage museum. This culturally significant destination reflects Shurooq's dedication to heritage preservation and sustainable luxury. Al Badayer Retreat Part of Shurooq's flagship brand 'Sharjah Collection', 'Al Badayer Retreat' is a desert-inspired haven spread across 226,530 square metres. It features 21 hotel units and 25 Bedouin-style tents—each with private pools—offering an immersive desert experience. Activities include dune safaris, camel rides, falconry, and culinary offerings at Al Madam restaurant, known for its fusion of local and international flavours. Kingfisher Retreat Nestled in Kalba on the eastern coast of the Emirate of Sharjah, 'Kingfisher Retreat' enjoys a unique location within a protected mangrove reserve, making it a natural sanctuary for nature enthusiasts. The retreat is also part of the 'Sharjah Collection' and features 40 luxurious tents that offer a sustainable hospitality experience, tailored for guests seeking eco-conscious comfort and tranquillity. The tents are situated on an island that serves as a habitat for a range of rare bird and marine species, including the kingfisher, olive ridley turtles, and green sea turtles. Guests can enjoy a variety of activities such as swimming, cycling, and kayaking, as well as guided exploration of the Mangrove Sanctuary, where they can observe birdlife and discover the rich marine biodiversity along the emirate's eastern coastline.


Zawya
29-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Shurooq announces Al Rayaheen retreat as the latest addition to the Sharjah Collection at Arabian Travel Market 2025
Dubai, The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced the completion and addition of Al Rayaheen Retreat in Khorfakkan to the Sharjah Collection during its participation at Arabian Travel Market (ATM 2025). The announcement follows an ongoing extensive restoration and redevelopment programme, carried out in collaboration with the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, to be completed by the end of Q2 this year elevating the visitor experience and enhancing the retreat's cultural and architectural significance. During its participation at ATM, Shurooq also presented progress updates on several key projects, including Nomad in Kalba, its strategic partnership with The Lux Collective, and the positioning of Mleiha National Park as a leading heritage and eco-tourism destination in the region. Shurooq's presence at the region's foremost travel and tourism event reflects its continued commitment to advancing integrated destinations that respect the identity of place, meet evolving traveller expectations, and uphold the principles of responsible tourism — reinforcing Sharjah's status as a unique destination that fuses cultural depth with sustainable innovation. Al Rayaheen Retreat – Preserving architectural heritage with contemporary elegance The inclusion of Al Rayaheen Retreat within the Sharjah Collection – the emirate's first homegrown luxury hospitality brand – reinforces Shurooq's vision to deliver heritage-inspired stays across distinctive locations. The retreat offers a refined interpretation of traditional Arabian hospitality, comprising 20 restored heritage homes. The largest of these, formerly owned by the Al Mushtagal family, has been transformed into a restaurant, reception lounge, and mini museum. The remaining 19 residences seamlessly merge heritage architecture with modern comfort. Accommodation options range from one- to four-bedroom units, each retaining its original courtyard and century-old trees. The retreat offers curated tourism and leisure activities, including kayaking, watersports, fishing, and guided tours of Khorfakkan and its shoreline. Named after the basil plant (Rayhan), once abundant in the district known locally as Freej Al Rayhan (The Basil Neighbourhood), the retreat was restored under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. The project was executed in line with UNESCO-aligned standards, ensuring the preservation of the site's historical identity and architectural character. Strategic vision grounded in culture, with a future-focused outlook H.E. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, stated that the announcement of Al Rayaheen Retreat at ATM 2025 forms part of a broader strategic framework to diversify and enrich the tourism landscape across the emirate. He affirmed that Shurooq oversees the development, management, and operation of all properties under the Sharjah Collection, applying its expertise in building sustainable, culturally rooted luxury destinations. Al Qaseer highlighted Khorfakkan's rich natural and cultural assets that elevate its appeal as a key destination for both domestic and international tourism. He described Al Rayaheen Retreat as a model for heritage-based tourism that preserves collective memory through immersive and authentic experiences. He concluded: 'Our participation at ATM 2025 is a strategic opportunity to showcase Shurooq's integrated development approach that combines ecological sensitivity with heritage preservation. This model supports environmental sustainability, revitalises local economies, and empowers SMEs, all while reinforcing Sharjah's identity as a distinctive and responsible tourism destination.' Nomad – A new eco-retreat concept in Kalba's natural landscapes Shurooq also spotlighted the upcoming launch of Nomad in Kalba, a pioneering eco-retreat featuring 20 luxury trailers set within one of the emirate's most biodiverse areas. The retreat has been designed with minimal environmental impact in mind, using solar energy and eco-friendly construction materials that blend into the surrounding landscape. The official opening of the project is expected in Q3 2025. Once launched, Nomad will further strengthen the Sharjah Collection's positioning as a hub for nature-based, sustainable hospitality experiences. Additional properties under the Sharjah Collection highlighted at ATM include Moon Retreat, Najd Al Meqsar, Al Faya Retreat, Kingfisher Retreat, and Al Badayer Retreat. These destinations offer distinctive lodging in Sharjah's diverse natural settings, with culinary experiences led by Michelin-starred chefs and a focus on preserving local identity, heritage, and sustainability. Shurooq and The Lux Collective – Strengthening Sharjah's global hospitality profile During ATM 2025, Shurooq also announced a key update in its collaboration with global hospitality group The Lux Collective: the rebranding of LUX* Al Jabal to LUX* Khorfakkan. This strategic change strengthens the project's identity and connection with the coastal city and its unique landscape along the Gulf of Oman. Located between Khorfakkan and Luluya, the resort is scheduled to open in Q4 2025. It will feature 45 bespoke units with architectural elements reflecting environmental consciousness, including the use of PEFC-certified Finnish timber. In addition, LUX* Al Bridi, located in Al Dhaid near Sharjah Safari, is expected to open in Q1 2026. The resort will feature 35 fully furnished luxury tents spread across a 784-hectare nature reserve, offering a high-end eco-tourism experience immersed in Sharjah's diverse wildlife and natural habitats. Mleiha National Park – Where ancient history meets modern sustainability Spanning 34.2 square kilometres in the central region of Sharjah, Mleiha National Park is a flagship project within Shurooq's environmental and cultural tourism portfolio. It is the first protected area in the region to combine archaeological, ecological, and recreational elements within a single, integrated destination. At the exhibition, Shurooq presented the full scope of the Mleiha National Park, highlighting its significance as a model for sustainable heritage tourism. As part of this showcase, Shurooq also showcased the newly published visual reference book, 'Mleiha: Ancient Treasures of the UAE', created in collaboration with renowned publisher Assouline. The book is currently on display at the Shurooq pavilion. With archaeological findings indicating human settlement in the area for over 200,000 years, Mleiha is recognised as one of the most important historical sites in the Arabian Peninsula. Visitors to the park can experience a range of activities including stargazing, desert trekking, camping and glamping, paragliding, luxury hospitality, and guided explorations of pre-Islamic ruins — offering an immersive journey through time that connects the past with the present.


Gulf Today
06-03-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Shurooq champions Sharjah as leading sustainable destination
The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) is presenting its innovative strategic vision at ITB Berlin 2025, leveraging the resurgence of global tourism and the increasing demand for eco-friendly and heritage-based travel experiences. These sectors form the core of Shurooq's investment model, reinforcing Sharjah's position as a leader in responsible tourism development while preserving its rich cultural heritage. Redefining tourism standards Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, emphasised that Shurooq's participation in ITB Berlin 2025 showcases its holistic development model, which integrates nature conservation, cultural preservation, economic sustainability, and innovation. 'Sharjah is redefining the meaning of competition in the global tourism market by embedding sustainability across every stage of project development. Our goal is to create a global impact by promoting responsible investments that prioritize community welfare and environmental protection,' said Shurooq's CEO. Shurooq's participation in ITB Berlin 2025 underlines its pivotal role in shaping Sharjah's tourism landscape, offering visitors a glimpse into its leading projects, including 'Mleiha National Park', the 'Sharjah Collection', 'The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah' and strategic collaborations with global hospitality leaders such as 'The Lux Collective'. Mleiha National Park: A benchmark for sustainable tourism Shurooq highlighted the high sustainability standards of Mleiha National Park, one of the UAE's most prominent eco-tourism and heritage destinations, spanning 23.4 square kilometers in Sharjah's central region. As a cornerstone of Shurooq's sustainability-driven strategy, the park seamlessly merges archaeological history with modern adventure experiences. With historical roots stretching back over 200,000 years, Mleiha is divided into three primary zones: the eco-tourism zone, the conservation zone, and the hybrid zone. Shurooq also introduced the 'Come Closer' campaign, inviting visitors to engage in stargazing, glamping, and exploring archaeological and natural landmarks, in collaboration with the Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA). Sharjah Collection: Redefining luxury heritage hospitality Shurooq showcased its Sharjah Collection, a unique heritage-driven hospitality portfolio that seamlessly blends luxury with sustainability. Najd Al Meqsar is a unique architectural landmark in Wadi Wishi, Khorfakkan, nestled within a mountainous area featuring rock carvings over 2,000 years old. The retreat offers an exclusive stay in seven luxurious heritage units with breathtaking mountain views. Nomad in Kalba features 20 solar-powered cabins, designed for nature enthusiasts and sustainable tourism seekers, enhancing Kalba's position as a prime eco-tourism destination. Shurooq also highlighted other prominent retreats within the Sharjah Collection, including Al Faya Retreat, Moon Retreat, Kingfisher Retreat, and Al Badayer Retreat. Each of these unique properties offers immersive stays within Sharjah's natural landscapes, reinforcing Shurooq's commitment to sustainable tourism and conservation. Strategic partnerships with The Lux Collective Shurooq emphasized the importance of strategic collaborations in eco-tourism and sustainable hospitality, highlighting its partnership with The Lux Collective, a leading global hotel operator. This partnership includes LUX* Khorfakkan, overlooking the Gulf of Oman, designed with a blend of heritage architecture and sustainable materials. LUX* Al Bridi, located near Sharjah Safari, one of the largest safari parks outside Africa, covers 784 hectares. Both resorts exemplify Shurooq's investment in high-end, eco-conscious hospitality, offering visitors a chance to experience luxury in harmony with nature. As a flagship of Shurooq's hospitality portfolio, The Chedi Al Bait, Sharjah and its expansion, The Serai Wing, Bait Khalid Bin Ibrahim, both managed by GHM, showcase the transformation of historic sites into exclusive five-star experiences, setting a benchmark in cultural preservation and luxury hospitality. Shurooq's presence at ITB Berlin 2025 underscores its commitment to positioning Sharjah as a global model for sustainable tourism development. As the industry transitions from recovery to growth, Shurooq continues to drive economic diversification and responsible investment strategies, ensuring Sharjah's enduring appeal to eco-conscious travelers and investors alike. 'Al Mamsha Seerah: Alef , the leading real estate developer in the Emirate of Sharjah, announced that the first phase of 'Al Mamsha Seerah' is advancing at an accelerated pace, with 100% completion of structural work, in line with the scheduled delivery of the project in 'Al Mamsha Sharjah' by Q4 2026. Furthermore, 98% of the units have already been sold, underscoring the strong confidence of both local and international investors and reflecting the growing demand for upscale residential properties in Sharjah. The construction of 'Al Mamsha Seerah' is advancing rapidly, with the structural works significantly progressed. Blockwork and finishing's are also well underway. In addition, the development of HVAC, electrical, mechanical, and plumbing systems, along with the final finishing works, are moving forward effectively.