Shurooq Announces Kalba Rock Art Centre And Completion Timelines For Nomad And Kalba Beach Projects

Under the guidance of H.H. Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and with the support of H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq, a new cultural landmark is set to emerge in Kalba: the Kalba Rock Art Centre. This site is one of the UAE's largest rock-art locations, showcasing engravings and artefacts from as far back as the Neolithic period.

Shurooq has announced that construction for the Kalba Rock Art Centre is underway by the Sharjah Directorate of Public Works. The centre will cover an area of about 3,574 sqm on a rocky hill overlooking the coast near Al Hefaiyah Park and Kalba Waterfront. Completion is expected by Q3 2026.

The Kalba Beach project, another key initiative by Shurooq, aims to enhance tourism infrastructure with a 700-metre beachfront slated for completion in Q4 2026. It will feature 11 retail units including restaurants and cafés, along with facilities accessible for people of determination. The project follows Blue Flag standards to maintain a clean marine environment.

Shurooq is collaborating with correctional institutions to create wooden shade structures for Kalba Beach. This initiative supports SMEs and encourages local entrepreneurs to venture into hospitality and marine services sectors, thereby boosting economic growth.

The anticipated Nomad project by Shurooq is set for completion later this year. Managed by Sharjah Collection, it includes 20 luxury trailers powered by hybrid energy systems using solar panels. Each trailer offers a private BBQ area while a main trailer provides dining options and guest services.

Nomad will offer activities like rare birdwatching, outdoor yoga, and stargazing to reflect Kalba’s natural identity. Hiking trails spanning 7.44 km are also part of this development, catering to both beginners and seasoned hikers.

Kalba Rock Art Centre Features

The Kalba Rock Art Centre will house over 400 engravings across 150 rock outcrops. These include animal depictions from various ages such as Neolithic and Iron Ages, stone houses, graves, shell mounds up to the 19th century, and symbols depicting scenes like horseback riding.

Interactive educational exhibits will be available at the centre upon completion along with visitor amenities like a café and gift shop. Shurooq plans to manage this destination alongside the Sharjah Archaeology Authority to preserve its heritage value.

Strategic Vision

These projects are part of Shurooq’s strategy to diversify Kalba's economy while creating job opportunities and encouraging entrepreneurship. They reflect Sharjah’s commitment to balancing environmental protection with economic growth.

"The Global Digital Heritage initiative is modelling and recording these engravings," said a spokesperson from Shurooq. "This makes them accessible via digital platforms for researchers worldwide."

Shurooq's initiatives aim to position Sharjah as a leading destination for tourism and investment by integrating eco- and cultural tourism with high-quality investment opportunities in Kalba.

With inputs from WAM