Sharjah is already well known as the cultural capital of the Arab world, and has seen visitor numbers rising sharply over recent years. As part of the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority’s 2021 strategic plan, the Emirate is hoping to welcome over 10 million visitors in just three years’ time.
While investments are being made in various areas, including the expansion of Sharjah International Airport and new entertainment and lifestyle projects being developed by both the public and private sector, there are also a number of exciting new hospitality destinations in the pipeline. We’ve put our top five below:
Kalba Kingfisher Lodge
Located on the east coast of the UAE, in the Sharjah enclave of Kalba, Kalba Kingfisher Lodge will be an eco-tourism resort set in the area’s stunning mangroves. It features 20 luxury tents, each with a private swimming pool, as well as an outdoor yoga and wellness centre, restaurants and recreational areas.
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Al Jabal Resort, Chedi Khorfakkan
The second Chedi-branded hotel in the Middle East, following the award-winning location in Muscat, Al Jabal Resort, Chedi Khorfakkan is based on the coast just north of Khorfakkan, on the UAE’s Indian Ocean coast. The hotel will include 170 suites with seaside views, restaurants, a spa and gym.
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Anantara Sharjah Resort
Announced in 2017, the Anantara Sharjah Resort is the East Asian brand’s first hotel in Sharjah. Set to open midway through 2020, the resort will have 233 rooms and suites, an over water specialty estaurant and a wellness rel="noopener noreferrer" centre and spa.
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Al Bait Sharjah
Another property from Shurooq, Al Bait Sharjah is based in the city’s heritage district and pays tribute to Sharjah’s culture and traditions. Set to open in 2018, it will house 53 luxury guestrooms and suites, and will be operated rel="noopener noreferrer" by GHM (General Hotel Management Ltd).
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Al Badayer Oasis
Set against the backdrop of desert dunes in Sharjah’s central region, Al Badayer Oasis is a base for off-road exploration, nature walks and stargazing. Built in the style of a grand desert fort, the resort will have open-air courtyards rel="noopener noreferrer" and majlis-style lounges when it opens in the coming years.
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