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Al Dhaid, the vibrant capital of the central region, is a captivating oasis where desert magic meets historical essence. Adorned with numerous palm trees and diverse plant species, the area thrives thanks to ancient water channels known as “Aflaj,” which extend from the peaks of Al Hajar Mountains.
Al Dhaid is strategically located at the entrance of Wadi Siji, 60 kilometres east of Sharjah City. Nestled on a desert plain at the foothills of Al Hajar Mountains, it is easily accessible via the E88 exit (Sharjah-Al Dhaid Road).
The road from Sharjah to Masafi, crossing the hills of Al Hajar Mountains, divides Al Dhaid area into eastern and western sections. North of Al Dhaid lies Falaj Al Mualla, a town within the Umm Al Quwain Emirate, renowned for its fertile lands. To the south, the road extends towards the areas of Mleiha and Kalba.
Al Dhaid area boasts a diverse range of religious, scientific, and cultural facilities, catering to local residents and drawing visitors. Among these are:
Inaugurated in 2023, this mosque is an architectural gem that harmoniously integrates the Islamic styles of the Fatimid and Ottoman periods. Situated at the eastern entrance of Al Dhaid City in the Al Uwaidid area, it features expansive interior and exterior spaces that can accommodate thousands of worshippers.
Spanning over 21,994 square metres, Al Dhaid mosque is equipped with comprehensive facilities for worshippers, including a main prayer hall, a women’s prayer area, and restrooms. It is surrounded by unique and complimentary amenities such as a library, a park with unobtrusive entertainment options, and lush green landscapes.
Al Dhaid branch of the University of Sharjah (UOS), accredited by the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, was established to offer residents of Al Dhaid and neighbouring areas enhanced access to knowledge, education, and higher degrees. Moreover, it supports their ability to contribute to community development across various sectors while preserving cherished customs and values.
Established in 2015, this institute is located in the suburbs of Al Dhaid and provides bachelor’s degrees across diverse specialities and scientific programmes tailored to the community’s societal, cultural, and economic needs.
Notably, Al Dhaid branch of the University of Sharjah (UOS) features a full suite of essential facilities and amenities for students. These include state-of-the-art classrooms, a well-equipped library, a medical clinic, advanced computer labs, recreational areas, event halls, and additional resources designed to enrich the educational experience.
This centre is dedicated to the youth of Al Dhaid area, focusing on personal development and skill enhancement to foster their contributions to societal progress. It strives to keep them abreast of national and global advancements by cultivating an environment that promotes innovation and creativity. The centre offers diverse programmes, activities, and events that guide the next generation across five key fields.
These fields, provided by the centre, encompass multiple activities in various subjects. In entrepreneurship, these include financial investments, volunteer work, and launching new initiatives. The science and technology field features programming, innovative inventions, and robotics. For sports, the centre presents a variety of options, such as indoor football, martial arts, swimming, archery, and table tennis, all designed to engage youth.
The centre also boasts a specialised literature and languages field, which hosts multiple cultural activities such as short story writing, literary debates, and reading sessions to foster and promote these valuable habits. In the arts field, youth can explore a broad range of activities, including visual arts, music, and theatre.
The Sharjah Seed Bank and Herbarium, covering 2,450 square metres, is a key scientific institution located in Al Dhaid. Established in 2018 through the efforts of the Sharjah Emirate’s Department of Public Works and affiliated with the Sharjah Research Academy, it reflects the emirate’s dedication to environmental conservation and regional biodiversity. The facility is equipped with advanced technologies and comprehensive services, aiming to preserve seeds and support the development of all aspects of the agricultural environment.
The Sharjah Seed Bank and Herbarium is committed to advancing scientific research on wild plants, particularly their adaptation to surrounding environmental conditions. It focuses on preserving and documenting genetic diversity through seed genetics. These preserved seeds support national objectives, including the cultivation of local species that are resilient to water scarcity for use in gardens, streets, and public areas. They also contribute to addressing land degradation resulting from natural and human activities.
Affiliated with the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, Al Wusta Canal Building stands as an architectural marvel. Designed in an octagonal shape, the structure rises 76 metres high and spans 45,000 square metres across seven floors. It overlooks Saih Al Mahhab Square, which features a circular fountain symbolising community unity.
Inside, the building hosts a range of facilities, including administrative and technical offices, a library, a conference hall, control rooms, and studios equipped with the latest digital technologies for visual productions.
Al Dhaid is more than a serene oasis; it is a masterpiece that merges golden sands with a rich history and authentic culture. Its captivating Arabian desert invites visitors to delve into intriguing stories revealed by its distinctive landmarks, historical sites, and a variety of immersive experiences, including:
Al Dhaid Fort, a must-visit landmark, boasts a rich history dating back to 1820 AD during the reign of the late Sheikh Sultan I bin Saqr Al Qasimi. Located near Shariat Al Dhaid, this historic fort once served as a vital rest stop for travelling caravans, providing food and water. Today, it stands as a powerful symbol of Al Dhaid’s heritage, reflecting its historical evolution and the customs and traditions of its local inhabitants.
A tour through the fort and its various sections offers visitors an engaging and enriching experience. It houses several halls and rooms that showcase historical antiques, each narrating the tales of Al Dhaid and its rich heritage. Among these is the Arms Hall, displaying a collection of weapons once used by locals like daggers, swords, and stone arrows. Additionally, the Document Hall preserves documents specific to Al Dhaid and its fort, showcasing ancient scriptures and archival records that mention the region.
Another unique section in Al Dhaid Fort is the Sheikh’s Room, which displays the personal belongings of the late ruler of Sharjah, who lived in the fort during his time in Al Dhaid.
Al Dhaid Wildlife Centre, under the management of the Sharjah Environment and Protected Areas Authority, plays a crucial role in raising community awareness about the environment, biodiversity, and wildlife. The centre offers numerous sections where visitors of all ages can explore the desert and Bedouin life. It also hosts educational activities and events that utilise innovative interactive techniques.
The centre comprises eight distinct halls, each named to reflect its exhibits. Examples include Al Dhaid, Desert Imagination, Herbs, and Insects. Visitors can engage in unique experiences, including a poetry and storytelling room, book browsing, and exploring desert wildlife and Bedouin tents with traditional tools. Moreover, there is a dedicated area for children’s workshops.
Opened in 2022, Sharjah Safari covers eight square kilometres within Al Bardi Reserve, situated southeast of Al Dhaid City, at the centre of the Sharjah Emirate. It stands out as a unique attraction in both Sharjah and the UAE, offering visitors a chance to explore African jungles and observe wildlife—all within Sharjah.
The safari recreates 12 distinct African environments, capturing the landscapes, animals, and birds native to these regions. Among these is "To Africa," where visitors can walk through archipelagos and islands along Africa’s eastern coast. Another area, "The Sahel," portrays diverse wildlife, deserts, and pastures typical of this area.
Visitors can discover around 120 species of African wildlife, including mammals, birds, and reptiles such as black rhinoceroses, giraffes, crocodiles, deer, and numerous endangered species.
To provide a wholesome experience for visitors to unwind after a long journey, the site offers essential public amenities, children’s entertainment areas, and a natural lake surrounded by restaurants and cafes.
Souq Shari’at Al Dhaid embodies the region’s heritage and history through its distinctive design, as it is constructed from palm fronds, trunks, and traditional materials. It also showcases an impressive style inspired by local customs and incorporates special features to protect against natural events like rain and fires.
The market was founded by a specialised team that selected a diverse group of local shop owners and small business operators from Al Dhaid. It hosts 32 shops, including restaurants and cafes, and offers a variety of facilities and services to enhance the visitor experience, such as playgrounds, restrooms, parking spaces, mosques, and more.
References
[1] visitsharjah.com, الذيد
[2] sharjahevents.ae, Al Dhaid
[3] sgmb.ae, حاكم الشارقة يفتتح مسجد الذيد
[4] sheikhdrsultan.ae, سلطان يدشن بنك بذور ومعشبة الشارقة
[5] dhm.gov.ae, سلطان القاسمي يفتتح مركز الذيد للحياة الفطرية
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