The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced the completion of expansions for two flagship projects under the Sharjah Collection: The Kingfisher Retreat and Al Badayer Retreat. This move demonstrates the emirate’s continued commitment to elevating its stature as a globally distinctive tourist destination.
The goal of these extensions is to increase capacity and provide visitors with unmatched experiences that honor sustainability and environmental preservation while skillfully fusing tradition and modernity.
Twenty brand-new rooms at Kingfisher Retreat are tucked away in a distinctive mangrove ecosystem. Situated on an island off the east coast of Sharjah, the Kingfisher Retreat has gained popularity as a family resort since it opened, surrounded by mangroves. Twenty more tents have been added in the latest expansion, increasing the total to forty. To accommodate discerning guests looking for luxury and sustainability during their stay, the expansion includes six one-bedroom tents, eight two-bedroom tents, five three-bedroom tents, and one four-bedroom tent.
In addition to additional amenities like a state-of-the-art health club and gym manned by professional trainers, as well as designated areas for children’s entertainment, the new expansion boasts spacious areas designed to meet guest needs.
The island is well-liked by families because it has a functioning conservation center and is home to uncommon birds, gazelles, turtles, and crabs. Depending on what the guests want, a variety of nature-inspired adventures can be created. The retreat is an exploration paradise, offering activities such as kayaking, scenic boat rides, archery practice, and nature walks where guests can learn about the variety of native plants and wildlife.
Bicycle rides, lounging by the bonfire under the stars, and taking a dip in the property’s pool are excellent choices for those looking for total relaxation. Kids can experience the thrill of the Great Kingfisher Treasure Hunt, and everyone can visit the Mangrove Centre to see mangroves, birds, and marine life while learning about the ecosystem.
In the desert of Sharjah, Al Badayer Retreat offers fifteen brand-new tents. Al Badayer Retreat, well-known for its distinctive red dunes and breathtaking views, welcomes guests to experience a traditional Emirati way of life. Located in Sharjah’s central region, against the backdrop of the Al Badayer desert, it offers an authentically local setting that appeals to both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
The retreat can now accommodate single travelers, families, and groups of friends with a total of 25 luxurious tents and 21 rooms, thanks to the addition of 15 new tents. The addition consists of three three-bedroom tents, five two-bedroom tents, and seven single tents, all with opulent furnishings and designs.
The goal of Shurooq is to provide unique and varied tourism experiences that skillfully combine history, culture, and environment. This expansion embodies that goal. The project’s architecture blends in seamlessly with the desert landscape, enhancing the five-star Al Badayer Retreat’s opulence and sophistication while also reflecting Arab and Emirati identity with tasteful modern accents.
Commenting on the expansions, Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, emphasized, “We prioritise ecotourism as a cornerstone of our strategy to develop the tourism sector in Sharjah and enhance its reputation as a globally diverse and unique destination. We meticulously monitor all our destinations to understand market needs and expectations, enabling us to continuously enhance our projects to the highest quality and sustainability standards. With a noticeable surge in demand for coastal and desert ecotourism experiences, catering to visitors of all ages seeking luxurious and comfortable stays while immersing in the culture and nature of the UAE.”
He further added, “Based on our analysis and visitor interests, we have expanded Al Badayer Retreat and Kingfisher Retreat, two of our most prominent luxury tourism projects, to accommodate more visitors and meet their evolving needs, providing an experience that seamlessly intertwines authenticity, heritage, modernity, and sustainability. These expansions, coupled with ongoing enhancements to our other projects, reiterate Sharjah’s allure as an investment and tourist destination within the UAE and internationally, cementing its position as a leading destination in the region and beyond.”