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Sharjah Desert Park
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Sharjah Desert Park is a comprehensive educational and conservation facility that opened in 1995, located about 28 kilometers outside Sharjah city. The park covers a large area and integrates four separate entities: the Natural History and Botanical Museum, Arabia's Wildlife Centre, the Children's Farm, and the Breeding Centre for Endangered Arabian Wildlife (BCEAW). Arabia's Wildlife Centre is the only place in the region where all animal species native to the Arabian Peninsula can be observed in a controlled environment, including the rare Arabian leopard. The BCEAW is internationally renowned for its success in breeding endangered regional species, although this specific section is not open to the general public for the sake of the animals' privacy. The park focuses heavily on preserving local flora and fauna and provides visitors with in-depth knowledge regarding evolution and the survival mechanisms of life in the extreme desert climate.
- Location: United Arab Emirates
- Top sights: Sharjah Monument · suming pool kasif 2017/04/23 · Arabia's Wildlife Centre
- Nearby: Falaj Al Mualla (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 20 | 21 | 24 | 28 | 32 | 34 | 36 | 36 | 34 | 31 | 26 | 22 |
| Rain mm | 23 | 10 | 16 | 6 | 1 | 2 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 2 | 8 | 14 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The park is located along the E11 highway, roughly 30 kilometers from the city center of Sharjah. It is most conveniently accessed by private car or taxi, as there are typically no direct public bus routes servicing this specific location.
Best season
The cooler winter months, from November to March, are good for a visit, especially for enjoying the outdoor viewing areas. During the extremely hot summer months, visitor activity largely shifts to the air-conditioned indoor spaces of the centers.
Terrain & paths
The grounds primarily consist of well-paved, flat walkways that seamlessly connect the various museums and wildlife enclosures. The facilities are designed to be highly visitor-friendly and are generally very easy to navigate with strollers or wheelchairs.
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes and casual, culturally respectful clothing are recommended. If you plan to spend time in the outdoor sections, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and strong sunscreen are absolutely essential to protect against the desert sun.
Parking
There are expansive, free parking areas located directly in front of the main entrances to the different centers within the desert park. On weekends and public holidays, these parking lots can fill up quickly, making an early arrival advantageous.
Safety
The park is a very safe, family-oriented facility with clear regulations regarding maintaining distance from the animals. Ensure you stay well-hydrated when walking in the outdoor areas, and always respect the physical barriers around the enclosures.
Time needed
To fully explore all the different sections, including the natural history museum, botanical museum, and the wildlife park without rushing, you should generally plan for three to four hours. Families often easily spend a highly engaging half-day here.
Geography
Facts
- The park was officially opened to the public in 1995.
- It integrates four distinct educational and research centers on one site.
- Arabia's Wildlife Centre only displays animals native to the Arabian Peninsula.
- The facility is a leader in the captive breeding of the rare Arabian leopard.
- The park is located approximately 28 kilometers east of Sharjah's city center.
- The Natural History Museum features exhibits on evolution and desert survival.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Sharjah Desert Park (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is Sharjah Desert Park?
It is an educational and conservation area that includes a wildlife center and a botanical garden.
Is it recommended for nature lovers?
Absolutely, it features a deep insight into the region's desert fauna and flora.
Are there guided tours?
Yes, informative guided tours are offered to better understand the local species.
Is the park open all year round?
Yes, it is open all year, but best visited during the cooler months.
Can you have a picnic there?
There are designated picnic areas where families can relax.
Sharjah Desert Park: where is it located?
Sharjah Desert Park is located in United Arab Emirates.
Sharjah Desert Park: what is there to see?
Highlights include Sharjah Monument, suming pool kasif 2017/04/23, Arabia's Wildlife Centre.
Sharjah Desert Park: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Sharjah Desert Park: why is it worth visiting?
Sharjah Desert Park is a comprehensive educational and conservation facility that opened in 1995, located about 28 kilometers outside Sharjah city.
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