Sharjah's nature-based stays see 5% rise in guests in August 2026

Sharjah Collections recorded a 5% increase in guests at its resorts and hotels in August 2026 compared with the same month last year, according to Shaikha Al Shamsi, Senior Director of Marketing at the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq).

Al Shamsi shared the figures on the sidelines of the Arabian Travel Market in Dubai.

Nature-Based Tourism Drives Interest

Al Shamsi attributed the growth to increasing demand for authentic and nature-based travel experiences.

She said visitors from different emirates are showing strong interest in Sharjah because of its natural surroundings and opportunities to connect directly with nature. She highlighted this focus as one of the emirate’s distinctive tourism offerings.

Gen Z Shows Growing Interest in Ecotourism

According to Al Shamsi, ecotourism is expanding rapidly, with younger travellers, including Gen Z, increasingly looking for experiences beyond traditional shopping malls and retail destinations.

She noted that travellers are becoming more interested in interacting with nature, an area for which Sharjah has developed a strong tourism identity.

Shurooq Focuses on Experiences, Not Just Rooms

Al Shamsi explained that Shurooq's hospitality properties are designed around experiences rather than simply accommodation.

The retreats are developed to preserve the authenticity and identity of their locations, with boutique properties offering visitors opportunities to explore nature, heritage, local food and surrounding communities.

Najd Al Muqsar Offers a Heritage Experience

One example is Najd Al Muqsar, a heritage village that is more than 200 years old and features just seven rooms.

The destination combines hiking routes, natural landscapes, Khor Fakkan's weather and a restaurant to create a distinctive experience. Guests can also interact with the local community, adding another element to the stay.

Nomad and The Moon Retreat to Reopen

Two of Shurooq's distinctive tourism destinations — Nomad and The Moon Retreat — are set to reopen next month as temperatures become cooler.

Shurooq CEO Ahmed Al Qaseer confirmed the reopening.

Nomad Offers Off-Grid Mountain Accommodation

Located among the rugged peaks of Kalba, Nomad features 20 eco-luxury accommodation trailers.

The retreat uses natural materials and a hybrid energy system that incorporates solar power, supporting its off-grid concept. The destination, inaugurated on December 31, 2025, also places an emphasis on reducing visitors' dependence on social media.

The Moon Retreat Combines Desert Views and Glamping

The Moon Retreat provides a desert glamping experience with 10 domes and six private tents.

The accommodation options offer guests panoramic views of the surrounding desert, adding to Sharjah's growing portfolio of nature-focused tourism experiences.