Visitor Information
Timing
Sunday - Wednesday : 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday - Saturday : 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tour Guides
English & Arabic speaking, qualified tour guides available at Mleiha National Park Centre
How to Get There
Mleiha National Park / Faya Desert, Sharjah, UAE
Navigation Apps
Google Maps or Waze — search “Mleiha Archaeological Centre”
Directions to Mleiha National Park — Distances & Primary Routes
| Emirates | Starting Point | Distance | Primary Route |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sharjah | Sharjah City Centre | ~50 km | E311 (Al Dhaid Road) |
| Dubai | Dubai International Airport | ~100 km | E311 → Al Madam Exit 77 |
| Dubai | Etisalat Metro Station | ~85 km | E311 → Al Madam |
| Abu Dhabi | Abu Dhabi International Airport | ~180 km | E11 → E311 → Al Madam |
| Ajman | Ajman City Centre | ~70 km | E311 |
| Ras Al Khaimah | Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) Centre | ~110 km | E18 → E311 |
| Fujairah | Fujairah City Centre | ~140 km | E99 → E611 → E311 |
FAQs
Mleiha National Park is Sharjah’s premier archaeological and eco-tourism destination, recognised by UNESCO for its ancient sites, fossil-rich landscapes, and desert ecosystems. It offers a window into 200,000 years of human and natural history.
Mleiha National Park lies about 60 km east of Sharjah city, along the E55 highway towards Kalba. It is easily reachable by car from Sharjah (45 min) and Dubai (1 hr).
Mleiha National Park is not just an adventure park — it’s a living museum. Visitors can explore archaeological discoveries, geological formations, and preserved natural landscapes in one seamless experience.
The Centre showcases artefacts, fossils, and reconstructed finds from the Paleolithic to the Pre-Islamic eras, along with guided tours that trace humanity’s early life in the Arabian Peninsula.
From deep red dunes and limestone ridges to gravel plains and wadis, Mleiha National Park’s topography is among the most varied in the UAE — shaped by millions of years of geological change.
Mleiha National Park is home to Arabian red foxes, sand gazelles, hedgehogs, skinks, and native birds. You’ll also see Ghaf trees, acacia, and hardy desert shrubs that sustain this ecosystem.
Mleiha Archaeological Centre typically opens from 9 AM to 7 PM (weekdays) and 9 AM to 9 PM (weekends). Timings may vary seasonally, so check ahead before your visit.
Walk-in visitors are welcome, but advance booking is recommended for guided tours, group experiences, or evening visits.
Yes. Entry tickets can be purchased at the visitor centre or online. Prices vary depending on tours or access levels.
Light, comfortable clothing and closed shoes are recommended. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Modest attire is advised in line with local customs.
Absolutely. Families can enjoy the museum, nature walks, and open-air spaces. The Archaeological Centre also hosts educational programs suitable for children.
Yes. Main facilities, museum exhibits, and common areas are wheelchair accessible. However, some outdoor terrain may require assistance or a guided vehicle.
Water and light snacks are permitted. The site also features a café with indoor and outdoor seating overlooking the desert.
October to April offers cooler weather, making it ideal for exploring the desert, wildlife, and stargazing.