Staff Report
Dubai, UAE
The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has announced the completion of the first phase of Najd Al Meqsar, a hospitality and heritage tourism destination in Khorfakkan, Sharjah, which is managed by the Sharjah Collection. Najd Al Meqsar features a house that is over 100 years old encompassing seven restored units, each offering views of the mountains. The final phase is slated for handover in Q1 2026.
Phase 1, which spans 17,210 square metres, includes a restaurant, reception area, and a trail to the 300-year-old Al Meqsar Fortress, among other amenities and attractions. Adventurers can access Al Rafisah Dam, another tourist attraction in Khorfakkan, through a dedicated trail.
The restoration and development of this historic village — part of a broader restoration effort in the area in collaboration with the Sharjah Infrastructure Development Authority (Mubadara) – aligns with ESG principles and utilises high-quality materials to preserve the project’s architectural legacy.
Phase 2, scheduled for handover in the first quarter of 2026, will host additional units overlooking the valleys covering 16,500 square metres. The strategic two-phased development approach is meant to protect and preserve the original foundations. Upon completion, the heritage-inspired development will provide guests with trails, quick access to the Wadi Wishi archaeological site, and more.
Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq, shared his perspective on the impact the project will have on Sharjah’s tourism portfolio, stating, “The opening of Najd Al Meqsar marks an important moment in our pursuit to safeguard and celebrate Sharjah’s illustrious history. This project provides another milestone to honouring our past, aligned with the visionary directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.
Al Qaseer added: “By meticulously preserving our heritage while crafting diverse, immersive and sustainable guest experiences, we showcase the diversity of offerings within our emirate and continue to reinforce Sharjah’s regional and global standing in the investment and tourism sector. As we look towards Phase 2 and beyond, we are inviting guests to experience a journey of discovery, connection, and enrichment amidst the natural beauty and cultural richness that define Sharjah.”
The Najd Al Meqsar area stands as a living testament to a rich history dating back thousands of years. Located in the heart of Wadi Wishi, it is home to the historic Al Rafisah Fort, also known as the Sulailat Fort. This land was once inhabited by the Al Hanateeb tribe, who settled near the abundant water source of Wadi Wishi, which nourished the Al Afalaj irrigation system and irrigated the land.
Now submerged underwater, near the island designated for deer breeding, lie the ruins of the area once known as Al Hara. This area thrived with life thanks to the waters from the Wadi Al Jinn spring and included over forty houses, in addition to the forts built on mountain tops to protect the inhabitants.
Najd Al Maqsar lies beneath the Al Bari or Fort area, which includes a mosque, a ghaf tree, and a historical rock still standing today known as Hussat Al Meqsar. Inscribed on this rock is the phrase Kharab Al Rafisah 1288 Hijri, (Which translates to Al Rafisah abandoned area) serving as a witness to the last prayer held in the mosque around the 1960s.
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