Mleiha Archaeological Centre
Ash Shāriqah
Mleiha Archaeological Centre is a premier visitor centre dedicated to the rich archaeological heritage of the Mleiha region in the Emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. It is situated within the UNESCO-designated Paleolandscape of Faya, a site of exceptional prehistoric significance. The centre is built around a preserved Umm Al Nar era tomb and showcases discoveries from over 40 years of archaeological excavations in Mleiha and surrounding areas such as Al Thuqeibah, Jebel Faya, Al Faya, Al Madam, and Jebel Al-Buhais. Of particular importance is the Faya North East find, which provides evidence of anatomically modern humans inhabiting the area between 130,000 and 120,000 years ago, highlighting an early southern dispersal route of humanity from Africa through the Arabian Peninsula. Opened in 2016 by the Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Sultan Bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, the centre offers a range of visitor experiences including guided tours to nearby landmarks like Fossil Rock, horse-riding activities for all skill levels, and educational outreach programs. Future developments aim to expand eco-tourism offerings with accommodations, a campsite, an astronomical observatory, and a vast desert park. Facilities include a café and luxury lodging at the Al Faya Lodge, blending heritage with modern hospitality.
Planifiez votre voyage en Émirats arabes unis avec l'IA
Créez un itinéraire détaillé en quelques minutes. L'IA suggère les meilleurs endroits, restaurants et un itinéraire optimisé.
Astuce: Visit during weekdays from 9am to 7pm or weekends (Thursday and Friday) until 9pm for the best experience. Consider booking guided tours in advance to explore nearby sites like Fossil Rock. Take advantage of family discovery packages and horse-riding activities available for all skill levels. Early reservations for accommodation at Al Faya Lodge are recommended, especially during peak seasons. Discounts may be available for groups and educational visits.
Faits intéressants
- •The centre is located within the Paleolandscape of Faya, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2025.
- •The Faya North East archaeological find provides some of the earliest evidence of anatomically modern humans outside Africa, dating back 130,000 to 120,000 years.
- •Mleiha Archaeological Centre is built around a preserved Umm Al Nar era tomb, linking it to one of the region's ancient civilizations.
- •The centre offers horse-riding activities catering to both beginners and advanced riders, connecting visitors with the desert landscape.
- •A unique eco-tourism feature at the centre includes 'spray on roads' to minimize environmental impact during development.
Histoire
The Mleiha Archaeological Centre was inaugurated in January 2016 to showcase the archaeological significance of the Mleiha region.
The site centers on a tomb from the Umm Al Nar period, highlighting the area's ancient human activity.
Over four decades of excavations have revealed vital evidence of early modern humans in the region dating back over 120,000 years, particularly the Faya North East find.
The centre is part of a broader eco-tourism initiative by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), aiming to develop a desert park and hospitality infrastructure while preserving the archaeological landscape.
Guide du lieu
Umm Al Nar Tombc. 2600–2000 BCE
A preserved tomb from the Umm Al Nar period around which the centre is built, showcasing ancient burial practices and regional history.
Faya North East Archaeological Sitecirca 130,000–120,000 years ago
Location of the significant discovery of early modern human remains dating between 130,000 and 120,000 years ago, shedding light on human migration routes.
Fossil Rock (Jebel Mleiha)
A nearby natural landmark offering fossilized remains and geological formations, popular for guided tours from the centre.
Al Faya Lodge1960s (original buildings)
A boutique luxury lodge developed from 1960s outbuildings, offering accommodation, a café, pool, and spa as part of the Sharjah Collection hospitality group.
Contact
Téléphone: 06 802 1111