Mleiha National Park: A Rich Blend of Ecotourism, Archaeology, and Desert Adventure in Sharjah

Published on December 29, 2025

Mleiha National Park is located in the Emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates, and covers an impressive 34 square kilometres. This iconic destination was designated as a National Park in February 2025, marking a significant step towards preserving its unique desert landscape and rich historical heritage. Its archaeological significance is undeniable, with human remains dating back over 200,000 years, providing a rare glimpse into the Arabian Peninsula’s prehistoric past. Mleiha’s status was strengthened when the Faya Palaeolandscape was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Mleiha National Park is a popular ecotourism and archaeological destination where visitors can enjoy nature’s tranquillity while exploring the remnants of ancient civilisations. Mleiha, located just over an hour’s drive from both Dubai and Sharjah, is an easily accessible retreat for tourists looking to experience a mix of desert landscapes, historical insights, and thrilling adventures.

Exploring the Archaeological Treasures of Mleiha

The heart of Mleiha National Park is the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, a hub for visitors to explore the park’s extensive archaeological findings. The centre houses exhibits and displays that showcase evidence of human life from prehistoric times, offering insight into how early humans adapted to life in the harsh desert environment. One of the highlights of the park is the Umm an-Nar Tomb, a monumental circular Bronze Age tomb dating back to around 2,300 BCE. This tomb is one of the largest and most remarkable ancient structures found in the region and offers visitors an awe-inspiring experience of the area’s ancient history.

The archaeological journey through Mleiha continues with the ruins of a late pre-Islamic Mleiha Fort, where visitors can walk in the footsteps of those who once called this place home. The fort, alongside the display of ancient coins, reveals that Mleiha was once a thriving trade hub, connecting ancient Greece, the Indus Valley, and other ancient civilisations. Among the most captivating sights are the glass-floored exhibits showing the remains of horses and camels, part of a prehistoric ritual where animals were buried with their owners, offering a profound glimpse into ancient burial practices.

A Unique Desert Experience

While Mleiha’s archaeological significance makes it a must-visit for history enthusiasts, the park also offers a host of thrilling desert experiences that will appeal to adventure seekers. With its vast red dunes and rugged terrain, Mleiha provides an excellent backdrop for a variety of outdoor activities. The Sand Surfer Experience is one such activity, where visitors embark on an off-road SUV drive, followed by a heart-racing sandboarding experience on the famous red dunes of the park. This combination of adrenaline and natural beauty is perfect for those seeking both excitement and a deeper connection to the desert landscape.

For those looking for a more relaxed yet equally fascinating adventure, the Dune Buggy Landscape Tour offers a 1-hour guided excursion to iconic sites like Camel Rock and Fossil Rock. These natural formations tell the story of Mleiha’s prehistoric past, and visitors can learn about the area’s geological evolution while enjoying the thrill of dune buggies. The Fossil Fun Expedition is another hands-on activity, allowing visitors to explore real fossils from a time when the area was covered by a prehistoric sea. Participants can even take home a replica fossil, making it a truly memorable experience.

Mleiha’s Flora and Fauna: A Guided Journey Through the Desert

One of the lesser-known aspects of Mleiha National Park is its thriving flora and fauna, which have adapted to the harsh desert conditions. The park offers a Flora and Fauna Workshop, where guided walks teach visitors about the indigenous desert plants and animals. These walks are led by knowledgeable guides who explain how these plants and animals survive in the desert, showcasing the remarkable resilience of desert life.

This workshop not only enhances the understanding of Mleiha’s unique ecosystem but also provides a peaceful and educational way to explore the park. Visitors can expect to encounter a variety of desert wildlife, from small insects to the occasional desert fox or hare. The area is also home to a rich variety of native plants, including the hardy desert shrubbery that thrives in the arid conditions.

Glamping and New Year Special Packages

For those looking to extend their stay and truly immerse themselves in the desert experience, Mleiha National Park offers a range of unique accommodation options. Visitors can choose from Premium and Standard Glamping Tents, each providing a luxurious yet comfortable desert experience. These glamping sites are designed to blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings while offering the comforts of modern living.

Traditional Overnight Camping is also available for those seeking a more authentic desert experience, offering a closer connection to the night sky and the tranquility of the desert. Additionally, Mleiha introduces a New Year Special package, providing visitors with a unique way to ring in the new year under the stars. The package, priced at approximately AED 550 (₹13,447), offers a memorable way to celebrate in one of the most stunning locations in the UAE. Reservations are required at least 24 hours in advance to secure a spot for these exclusive experiences.

A Stargazing Paradise

Mleiha National Park is also poised to become a leading destination for stargazing enthusiasts. With significantly low light pollution, the park offers a pristine night sky perfect for observing celestial wonders. Mleiha has introduced expert-led astronomy sessions, which include telescope observations of planets, nebulae, and star clusters. These interactive astronomy talks are designed to educate visitors about the cosmos while providing them with the opportunity to see deep-sky objects through powerful telescopes.

The 2026 stargazing season is expected to be particularly exciting, with a robust calendar of meteor showers, eclipses, and rare planetary alignments. Visitors can look forward to an unforgettable night under the stars, making Mleiha a prime destination for both ecotourism and astronomical exploration.

Mleiha National Park Awaits

Mleiha National Park in Sharjah provides an exceptional combination of history, adventure, and natural beauty. Whether you enjoy archaeology, adventure, or stargazing, Mleiha has something for you. Its abundant archaeological sites, thrilling desert experiences, and unique lodging options make it a must-see destination for those looking to discover the UAE’s natural and historical wonders. The park’s commitment to preserving its natural and cultural heritage ensures that it will remain a popular ecotourism destination for many years to come.

With its vast desert landscape, fascinating history, and exciting outdoor activities, Mleiha is poised to become a top destination for both tourists and nature lovers by 2026. Don’t pass up the opportunity to visit one of the UAE’s most captivating national parks.