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Sharjah's Al Dhaid Wildlife Museum: A Game Changer for Environmental Education in the UAE
In a significant cultural and educational milestone for the UAE’s central region, his highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurated the Al Dhaid Wildlife Museum in Al Dhaid City, reinforcing the emirate’s long-term vision for environmental stewardship and public engagement with nature.Officially opened adjacent to the historic Souq Sharia’t Al Dhaid, the museum represents a qualitative addition to Sharjah’s growing network of educational and conservation-focused destinations. Its launch follows a broader transformation of Al Dhaid into a multi-faceted region where heritage, nature and community life intersect.
Al Dhaid Wildlife Museum: A hub for interactive environmental learning in Sharjah
The Wildlife Museum has been intentionally designed as an interactive and educational platform that invites families, students, researchers and nature enthusiasts to explore the rich biodiversity and ecological dynamics of the Arabian desert landscape.Spanning several specialised halls, exhibits cover a wide range of natural topics, from desert animal adaptations and plant life to geological formations and seasonal cycles. One notable feature includes a three-dimensional model of desert fauna anatomy, designed to deepen visitors’ understanding of how species thrive in harsh environments.By deploying advanced digital technologies and interactive learning tools, the museum aims to make environmental science accessible and engaging.
This aligns with an emerging trend across the Gulf of blending technology with natural history to attract younger audiences and bolster public science literacy.
Al Dhaid Wildlife Museum is now open to visitors, offering an engaging educational experience that highlights the rich biodiversity of Sharjah’s natural environments.
We welcome you to explore wildlife up close. pic.twitter.com/anNV8Z1P6E— هيئة البيئة الشارقة (@EPAA_SHJ) February 7, 2026
During the inauguration speech, the Ruler emphasised the importance of sustained scientific work to preserve local ecosystems and wildlife, reaffirming Sharjah’s ongoing commitment to conservation efforts. These efforts extend beyond museum walls.
For example, long-term projects such as seed collection and storage initiatives, including multi-million seed banks, reflect broader strategies to protect plant diversity and support scientific research.By featuring educational laboratories and dedicated spaces for research within the museum, the institution is positioned not only as a destination for visitors, but as a learning hub for scholars and environmental professionals.
It supports initiatives that promote ecological understanding and sustainable development, which are values increasingly central to national agendas across the UAE.
Halls and features of Al Dhaid Wildlife Museum
Spanning 2,755 square metres, the museum is thoughtfully designed with a series of specialised halls that explore the Arabian desert’s unique environment, the ways life adapts to its challenging conditions, and the rich biodiversity of plant and animal species that thrive within it.
- Desert Hall: This hall introduces visitors to the defining environmental characteristics of the Arabian Desert and the ingenious methods used to survive its harsh climate. Exhibits include a traditional Bedouin tent, symbolising desert heritage, alongside displays explaining how ancient communities determined seasons through stellar navigation. Visitors can also explore the different types of sand dunes, understand the dynamics of sand movement and learn about the minerals and rock formations found across the region.
- Plant Hall: Dedicated to desert flora, this hall presents scientific and interactive content on seasonal and perennial plant species, including several that are endangered. Exhibits explain the structure of the plant cell, the process of photosynthesis and the techniques used to estimate the age of trees growing in arid environments.
- Insect Hall: The Insect Hall features a rare collection of butterflies donated by the Ruler of Sharjah, alongside carefully preserved insect specimens. Interactive displays, supported by a dedicated application, provide scientific insights into insect classification, geographical distribution, and toxicity levels. The hall also offers a virtual reality experience that allows visitors to explore the life cycle of the camel spider.
- Desert Animals Hall: This hall highlights the diversity of desert-dwelling reptiles, mammals, and other species adapted to extreme conditions. A standout feature is a three-dimensional anatomical model of a camel, offering an in-depth look at how the animal’s structure supports survival in desert environments.
- Birds Hall: Focusing on both resident and migratory bird species, the Birds Hall showcases desert birds including falcons and eagles. Interactive screens provide information on behavioural differences, hunting techniques, and dietary patterns, as well as displays of bird nests and guidance on how to identify them.
- Book Halls: These spaces offer integrated educational content covering nature reserves, publications and e-books by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority, and an interactive digital book highlighting Al Dhaid’s historical role as an agricultural oasis of environmental significance.
- Children’s Hall: Designed to inspire younger visitors, the Children’s Hall features hands-on activities such as colouring and drawing. The aim is to nurture a love for nature, encourage scientific curiosity, and build environmental awareness from an early age.
The museum’s main entrance reflects traditional Emirati architecture of the central region, featuring an arched gateway reminiscent of historic forts and heritage buildings. This design serves as a symbolic passage into a space dedicated to culture, knowledge, and environmental awareness.
Insect Hall in Sharjah's Al Dhaid Wildlife Museum includes a collection of rare butterflies donated by the Sharjah Ruler to the museum, along with models of preserved insects.
The earth-toned façade blends seamlessly with the surrounding desert landscape, while the hand-carved wooden gate, adorned with Islamic-inspired motifs, adds a sense of craftsmanship and authenticity.
Together, these elements present a contemporary architectural expression rooted in Emirati identity and memory of place.Supporting its scientific and educational mission, the museum is equipped with a comprehensive range of facilities. These include administrative offices, dedicated spaces for scientific researchers, a fully equipped laboratory and a technical support department. Additional facilities include offices for environmental education, a programmes and activities department, a guidance unit and visitor services such as parking and support amenities.
Al Dhaid Wildlife Museum as an anchor of regional tourism and cultural identity
The opening of the Wildlife Museum forms part of a larger effort to reposition Al Dhaid as a destination that celebrates both its natural environment and its historical roots. Alongside the museum, restorations and new attractions are enhancing the region’s cultural circuit, bringing heritage tourism into harmony with environmental exploration.
This initiative runs parallel to the restoration of historic structures and marketplaces, which collectively offer a layered visitor experience, from traditional architecture and souq culture to immersive encounters with nature.
Such developments support wider sustainability narratives in the UAE, where environmental conservation, cultural preservation and community engagement are increasingly integrated into urban and regional planning.
Looking ahead: Education and sustainable growth through Al Dhaid Wildlife Museum
The Al Dhaid Wildlife Museum highlights how cultural institutions are evolving to serve multiple roles as centres for public education, platforms for scientific collaboration and anchors for tourism development. By promoting ecological awareness through interactive experiences and scientific engagement, the museum not only reflects Sharjah’s heritage but helps shape a future generation of environmentally conscious citizens.As the museum opens its doors, it stands as a testament to how investments in environmental education can deepen public appreciation of nature while advancing broader cultural and developmental goals across the UAE.
