Sharjah Authorities Issue Stern Warning Over Unauthorised Entry to Mleiha National Park
Authorities in Sharjah have issued a stern warning to visitors and off-road enthusiasts regarding unauthorised entry into the Mleiha National Park. This move signals that such actions will no longer be tolerated, with severe fines and legal measures being strictly enforced. The primary objective is to safeguard one of the Emirate's most treasured natural and archaeological sites, highlighting a growing emphasis on environmental conservation and adherence to protected-area regulations across the UAE.
Why the Crackdown? Understanding Mleiha National Park's Protected Status
Mleiha National Park is far more than just a desert destination; it forms an integral part of the Al Faya Site, which earned a place on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2025. This recognition celebrates its outstanding archaeological and historical significance, including evidence of early human life in Arabia. The park's landscapes are home to rare fossils, ancient stone tools, and cultural deposits that date back thousands of years.
Due to this prestigious designation, the park operates under a strict legislative framework established by an Emiri decree and is managed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). According to Shurooq, these laws are crucial for protecting the fragile terrain and irreplaceable archaeological remains, which could be easily destroyed by careless off-road traffic or unregulated visitation.
What the New Mleiha National Park Rules Mean for Visitors
Under the updated enforcement regime, several key rules have been implemented:
- Prior Authorisation Required: All vehicle entry into the park now mandates prior authorisation. This applies to all types of vehicles, including 4×4s, bikes, and recreational off-roaders.
- Hefty Penalties: Unauthorised access is treated as a direct violation of the site's protected status, carrying substantial fines and potential legal measures.
- Restricted Public Access: Public access is generally limited to approved, organised activities supervised by the Mleiha Archaeological Centre, with visits confined to designated routes and guided tours.
In practical terms, this means that individuals or groups driving into the park without a permit risk not only losing access but also facing financial penalties and legal action in line with environmental protection laws.
Conservation First: The Importance of Enforcement in Mleiha National Park
Authorities emphasise that the enforcement is not about punishing casual adventurers but about protecting an extremely fragile ecosystem and an irreplaceable historical record. Much of the terrain within Mleiha is vulnerable to erosion and damage from off-road vehicles, and once disturbed, archaeological deposits cannot be restored or replaced.
This approach aligns with a broader global trend toward strengthening environmental protections in sensitive sites, where unmanaged recreational access has led to irreversible damage in the past. Conservationists argue that such rules, even if perceived as restrictive, are essential to balance tourism, education, and long-term preservation.
Broader UAE Trend: Fines and Enforcement for Protected Land Use
Sharjah's actions are part of a larger pattern of increasing regulation and enforcement across the UAE, aimed at preserving natural spaces and ensuring compliance with legal requirements. For instance:
- Earlier in the season, authorities in Al Ain's Jebel Hafeet imposed fines of up to Dh4,000 for unauthorised barbecues in restricted zones to prevent fire hazards and ecological harm.
- Fujairah has implemented fine regimes for tourism companies accused of compromising hiker safety, with penalties reaching Dh50,000 to reduce risky behaviour on mountain trails.
- Across parks and green spaces in Sharjah City Municipality zones during peak seasons, inspectors are deployed to curb illegal activities such as camping, loud music, littering, and off-road disruption.
Collectively, these measures reflect the UAE's broader effort to strategically regulate outdoor recreation, protect public safety, and preserve ecosystems.
Practical Advice for Visitors to Mleiha National Park
For those who enjoy desert landscapes, history hikes, or cultural tours, here are some tips to stay compliant:
- Plan Ahead and Get a Permit: All visits to Mleiha, whether for archaeological tours, desert walks, or guided vehicle outings, must be booked through the Mleiha Archaeological Centre with official permits and scheduled routes.
- Avoid Off-Route Driving: Do not drive into the park off-road with 4×4 vehicles or motorbikes unless it is part of an authorised, supervised activity.
- Respect Park Rules and Signs: Follow posted guidelines and park staff instructions to avoid fines and help preserve the environment for others to enjoy.
- Book Educational or Guided Tours: Many visitors find value in guided tours, which are not only safer and compliant but also offer richer insights into the site's deep cultural history.
Mleiha National Park has become one of the UAE's standout natural and historic attractions, drawing both local families and international visitors. By stepping up enforcement, conservation goals are placed front-and-centre, ensuring that future generations can appreciate the site's unique heritage. Legal compliance becomes clearer and more uniform, removing ambiguity for tourists and locals about what is permitted.
Sharjah positions itself as a global leader in responsible heritage tourism and sustainable park management. For anyone planning a trip to Mleiha, whether for a weekend outing, educational exploration, or photography, taking the time to secure the right authorisation is not just about avoiding fines; it is about being part of a collective effort to protect a world-class heritage site.
