All about Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre in Sharjah
There’s something fascinating about seeing wildlife in a natural environment. An environment where animal species feel at home. That is exactly the kind of habitat that Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre provides, for its 30 native species of wild and nocturnal animals. Located at the base of the Hajar Mountains in Sharjah, the Conservation Centre is a perfect place for nature lovers. Here’s everything you need to know about this hidden gem of a wildlife sanctuary.
OVERVIEW
Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Center is home to various species of animals, native to the local mountains and deserts. It is spread over 12 sq. km. with an indoor and outdoor exhibits.
The Environment and Protected Areas Authority (EPAA) is in charge of the conservation initiative — which demonstrates the UAE’s dedication to protecting endangered species.
The park houses a critically endangered Arabian leopard and striped hyena. The latter was last sighted in the UAE in 2002.
Other endangered species at the centre include wolves, tahr and a desert lynx.
The animals live in large landscaped enclosures that mimic their natural habitat — giving visitors a chance to see them in their environment. There is also an indoor park with smaller animals, such as hedgehogs, lizards, snakes and large scorpions.
EXPERIENCE
The reserve offers an exciting experience for nature enthusiasts and children. If you go for a guided tour, the little ones can ask as many questions as they want. The tour guide will be happy to answer them all.
For large groups, golf carts or buggy rides are available to take them around the centre. The weather in Kalba is usually pleasant for an outdoor experience – except in peak summer. However, visitors don’t need to worry even if it’s hot outside as the centre has an air-conditioned corridor to view outdoor enclosures.
TIMINGS AND TICKETS
The entrance fee and timings for the Conservation Centre are as follows:
- Timings: Tuesday to Thursday: 09:00 am – 06:30 pm | Friday: 02:00 pm – 06:30 pm | Saturday and Sunday: 11:00 am – 06:30 pm
- Entrance Fee: Adults 15 AED (Kids under 12 years can visit free of charge)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE LOCATION OF AL HEFAIYAH MOUNTAIN CONSERVATION CENTRE?
Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Center is located at the base of the Hajar Mountains on the outskirts of Kalba. If you take the Sharjah-Kalba Road, it is around 130km east of Sharjah City.
WHAT IS THE CONTACT NUMBER OF AL HEFAIYAH MOUNTAIN CONSERVATION CENTRE?
The contact number for the centre is +971-9-277-2698.
WHAT ARE THE POPULAR TOURIST ATTRACTIONS IN SHARJAH?
If you’re visiting the city for the first time, you must explore Sharjah’s top tourist attractions. These include Central Souq, Sharjah Desert Park and Al Majaz Waterfront Park.
That concludes our guide to Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre. The centre offers an exciting experience for children so be sure to take your little ones here and give them a chance to learn something new. For those of you looking to explore the best of the emirate, check out these hidden gems in Sharjah.
There are also quite a few fun things to do for free in the city.
