Latest news with #SultanAlQasimi
Time of India
13 hours ago
- Time of India
Above the clouds: UAE's first mountain grape vineyard bears fruit at Sharjah's Ghamam retreat
First grapes harvested 'above the clouds' in Sharjah under new project/ Image: X Far from the rolling vineyards of Tuscany or the sun-drenched slopes of southern France, grapevines are now thriving at 850 metres above sea level on the rocky, windswept slopes of Jebel Deem in Sharjah's eastern mountains. In a landscape more known for its harsh terrain than fertile soil, the crescent-shaped Ghamam retreat has defied expectations, transforming rugged rock into a thriving vineyard, and this landmark moment unfolded at Ghamam, a new high-altitude development on Jebel Deem, where the UAE's first mountain grape cultivation has just borne fruit. Turning rock into vine: The Ghamam project Named after the Arabic word for ' above the clouds,' the Ghamam project is part of a sweeping vision led by Sheikh Dr Sultan Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah. More than 4,500 trees, including grape vines, olives, apples, and pomegranates — have been planted on the slopes of Jebel Deem as part of the emirate's ambitious strategy to green the mountains and cultivate food in unlikely places. Photos and videos shared by Sharjah News this week captured the harvest, a moment that is both a technical milestone and a symbol of what sustainable mountain agriculture could look like in the UAE. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Buy Brass Idols - Handmade Brass Statues for Home & Gifting Luxeartisanship Buy Now Undo 'Its unique location provides visitors with a panoramic view of the city's coastline and surrounding mountain valleys, offering a captivating experience and holding significant cultural and social importance,' according to documentation from the Sharjah Ruler's office. From farm to retreat: A vision above the clouds The agricultural breakthrough is only one part of the Ghamam retreat, a crescent-shaped mountaintop destination combining farming, tourism, and leisure. The site spans 4,700 square metres and features two floors that blend mountain hospitality with immersive visitor experiences. The first floor houses a restaurant, open-air café, and reading area serving fresh mountain-grown produce. The ground floor includes viewing platforms, a multipurpose hall, prayer rooms, and playgrounds, all designed to let guests connect directly with the landscape and the land that sustains it. The development serves dual purposes: showcasing high-altitude farming in action and offering a space for cultural, social, and educational engagement. Kalba's ongoing transformation Located within the Kalba region, the project adds a new layer to Sharjah's growing reputation as a destination for innovative development. Kalba has already launched major attractions such as the Hanging Gardens, Al Hefaiyah Lake, and a landmark clock tower, positioning the city as a leading eco- and agri-tourism hub. The Ghamam harvest complements this evolution by offering a mountain-to-table experience for visitors, blending scenic tourism with food sustainability. The initiative also supports Sharjah's broader environmental and economic goals. By integrating agriculture with tourism, the project creates multiple revenue streams while promoting agricultural education and sustainable practices. Engineering the impossible Supporting this remote operation is a robust infrastructure network, including 10 kilometres of newly built roads and two bridges. One connects Wadi Al Helo Tunnel to the new Sharjah-Kalba Road, while another leads directly to the peak. These roads are built to accommodate both heavy agricultural vehicles and tourist buses, ensuring safe and efficient access. Future plans in the area include a FIFA-standard stadium on Mount Daym, located 650 metres above sea level, where temperatures are projected to be 10°C cooler than the city. Alongside it, a 100-room sports tourism hotel will rise, connected to the Ghamam retreat via a dedicated pedestrian path. These additions are part of a long-term integrated mountain development strategy combining sports, hospitality, and sustainability. Sharjah's second mountain retreat The Ghamam project follows the success of Al Suhub Rest Area, Sharjah's first mountain retreat, built 600 metres above Khor Fakkan and inaugurated in 2021. Together, the two projects underscore Sharjah's pioneering role in mountain tourism and eco-conscious development. As the UAE works toward the goals of its National Food Security Strategy 2051, initiatives like Ghamam offer a blueprint for turning difficult terrain into productive, economically viable, and environmentally sensitive landscapes.
Khaleej Times
19 hours ago
- General
- Khaleej Times
Watch: UAE President offers Eid Al Adha prayers at Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
The UAE President arrived early Friday morning at the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi to offer Eid Al Adha prayers. In a video shared by Forsan on social media platform X, the President was seen arriving with his security before joining a large congregation of worshippers. President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan was accompanied by Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of UAE, and Minister of Presidential Affairs. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, early Friday morning also offered Eid Al Adha prayers at the Sharjah Mosque. Check out the photos below, as shared by Sharjah media: The country's authorities had earlier announced Friday as the official start of Eid celebrations, with prayers held 15 to 20 minutes after sunrise. Prayer timings varied slightly across the UAE's different emirates, reflecting the unique local practices while uniting the nation in shared celebration.
Sharjah 24
a day ago
- Politics
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah Ruler congratulates President, VPs, Rulers on Eid Al-Adha
In the message, His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah expressed his heartfelt congratulations and warmest blessings on this cherished occasion for Muslims, praying to God Almighty to return it with continued health and well-being for the President, and with blessings, goodness, and prosperity for the Arab and Islamic nations. Congratulations to Vice Presidents and Rulers His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah also sent similar congratulatory messages to His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister of the UAE, and Ruler of Dubai; His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Presidential Court; as well as to his brothers, Their Highnesses the Supreme Council Members and Rulers of the Emirates. Greetings to GCC and Arab and Islamic Leaders Additionally, His Highness sent Eid Al-Adha congratulations to the leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, and to the heads and kings of Arab and Islamic nations, wishing them good health, happiness, and continued progress and prosperity for their peoples and nations. Sharjah Deputy Rulers extend similar cables His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; and His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, also sent similar congratulatory cables to President His Highness Sheikh
Zawya
5 days ago
- Politics
- Zawya
Sharjah Crown Prince discusses energy sector developments
H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Energy Council, chaired the council's second meeting on Monday morning. The session, held at the Ruler's Office, was attended by H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Petroleum Department. The council reviewed key topics on its agenda concerning the energy sector in Sharjah. Discussions focused on current strategies and public policies across energy and water sectors, alongside development plans aimed at increasing capacity while upholding global sustainability and environmental standards. Members were briefed on the latest developments within the energy sector and the performance of relevant entities. Highlights included projects aimed at diversifying energy sources, advancing systems and technologies aligned with international standards, and contributing to carbon reduction and neutrality targets. The council examined the outcomes of recent work visits to leading countries in sustainable energy and water, with a focus on best practices. It also discussed future project proposals aimed at expanding clean energy sources and optimising the use of natural resources without harming the environment. Also present were Sheikh Mohammed bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Chairman of the Petroleum Department; Saeed Al Suwaidi, Chairman of Sharjah Electricity, Water and Gas Authority; and Hatem Diab Al Mousa, Secretary-General of the Energy Council.
Sharjah 24
21-05-2025
- Sport
- Sharjah 24
Khalid Al Midfa expresses gratitude to UAE wise Leadership
He also congratulated His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; Her Highness Sheikha Jawaher bint Mohammed Al Qasimi, Wife of the Ruler of Sharjah, and Chairwoman of the Supreme Council for Family Affairs; His Highness Sheikh Abdullah bin Salem bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah; and His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah, as well as the people of the UAE, on the occasion of Sharjah FC winning the AFC Champions League title. Al Midfa emphasised that this achievement is not just for the club but is a national victory dedicated to the wise leadership and the Emirati fans. He noted that the overwhelming joy following the win is priceless, especially with the congratulations received from the Ruler of Sharjah, who expressed great happiness over this accomplishment. Al Midfa called for continued efforts to achieve more sports milestones that elevate the UAE's name on the international stage. He affirmed that this title is a new addition to the record of achievements in Emirati football and reflects the significant efforts made by the state to support sports and athletes.
