Sharjah Desert Park

Sharjah Desert Park is a must-visit destination for anyone who wants to learn more about the UAE’s natural heritage and explore the country’s rich cultural and ecological diversity. Located in the heart of the Arabian Desert, this sprawling park spans over 400 hectares and comprises three distinct zones: the Natural History Museum, the Arabian Wildlife Centre, and the Botanical Museum.

Whether you’re interested in learning about the flora and fauna of the region, or simply want to soak up the sun and enjoy a peaceful day out in nature, Sharjah Desert Park has something to offer everyone. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the park’s main attractions and what you can expect to see and do during your visit.

Sharjah Desert Park is a popular attraction located in the Emirate of Sharjah in the United Arab Emirates. The park spans an area of 2.5 square kilometers and is dedicated to showcasing the diverse flora and fauna of the Arabian Desert. The park is an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, families, and tourists who want to learn about the region’s ecosystem and enjoy various recreational activities.

Table of Contents

Natural History Museum

The Natural History Museum is the first zone you’ll encounter when you enter the park. This museum is dedicated to showcasing the geological and paleontological history of the UAE, with a particular focus on the Arabian Peninsula. Here, you’ll be able to explore a range of interactive exhibits, including fossil displays, interactive models of the earth’s tectonic plates, and dioramas of the UAE’s various ecosystems.

One of the highlights of the Natural History Museum is the outdoor geological garden, which features a variety of geological formations and rock samples from across the UAE. You’ll be able to see and touch rocks that date back millions of years and learn about the geological processes that have shaped the region’s landscape over time.

In addition to the exhibits, the Natural History Museum in Sharjah also offers educational programs and workshops for visitors of all ages. These programs cover a range of topics related to natural history and environmental conservation and provide visitors with hands-on experiences and opportunities to learn more about the natural world.

Overall, the Natural History Museum in Sharjah is a fascinating destination for anyone interested in the natural world and the history of the region.

Location of Sharjah Desert Park

Sharjah Desert Park is located on the outskirts of Sharjah, close to the Sharjah Airport. It is easily accessible via the E88 highway, which connects Sharjah with the other emirates of the UAE. The park is situated on Al Dhaid Road, near the Sharjah Bird and Animal Market.

Timing of Sharjah Desert Park

Sharjah Desert Park is open every day of the week except on Mondays.
On weekdays (Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday), the park is open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM.
On Fridays, the park is open from 2:00 PM to 5:30 PM.
On Saturdays, the park is open from 11:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

Entry Fee of Sharjah Desert Park

The entry fee for adults is AED 15, while children (below 12 years old) and seniors (above 60 years old) can enter for AED 5.
Children below the age of 2 can enter for free.
There is an additional fee for the wildlife center and other activities within the park.

Overall, Sharjah Desert Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. With its wide variety of animals, plants, and activities, it’s a great place to spend a day with family and friends.

Arabian Wildlife Centre

The Arabian Wildlife Centre is the second zone of the park, and it’s where you’ll be able to see some of the UAE’s most fascinating animal species up close. This zone is home to over 100 species of indigenous and exotic animals, including Arabian wolves, Arabian leopards, Arabian oryx, and several species of desert reptiles and birds.

One of the unique features of the Arabian Wildlife Centre is the walk-in aviary, where you can get up close and personal with a variety of bird species. You’ll be able to walk among the birds and observe them in their natural habitat, without any barriers or cages separating you from them.

Another highlight of the Arabian Wildlife Centre is the nocturnal animal exhibit, where you can see some of the region’s most elusive and mysterious creatures, such as the Arabian sand cat and the Arabian fox. This exhibit is designed to simulate the animals’ natural habitats and nocturnal behaviors, giving you a glimpse into their secretive lives.

Botanical Museum

The Botanical Museum is the third zone of the park, and it’s dedicated to showcasing the diverse plant life of the UAE and the wider Arabian Peninsula. This museum features several themed gardens, including a medicinal plant garden, a sensory garden, and a garden dedicated to the region’s traditional agriculture.

One of the highlights of the Botanical Museum of the future is the butterfly house, where you can see dozens of butterfly species fluttering about in a controlled environment. You’ll be able to observe their behavior up close and learn about their life cycle and ecological importance.

Another popular feature of the Botanical Museum is the plant nursery, where you can purchase a variety of plants and seeds to take home with you. The nursery specializes in indigenous plant species that are adapted to the harsh desert environment, making them a great choice for anyone interested in gardening in the UAE.

Education and Outreach Programs

Sharjah Desert Park is not just a tourist attraction; it’s also an important educational resource for the UAE’s schools and universities. The park offers a range of educational programs and workshops for students of all ages, covering topics such as ecology, conservation, and sustainability.

The park also hosts several public events throughout the year, including the annual Sharjah Natural History and Botanical.