Mleiha Archaeological Centre
Meliha Archaeological Centre is a visitor centre and exhibition based around the history and archaeology of the areas surrounding the village of Mleiha in Sharjah, the United Arab Emirates. Built around a preserved Umm Al Nar era tomb, the centre details the excavations and discoveries made over the past 40 years at Mleiha and surrounding areas (including Al Thuqeibah, Jebel Faya, Al Madam and Jebel Buhais), particularly the important Faya North East find, which provides evidence that ‘anatomically modern humans’ were in the Mleiha area between 130,000 and 120,000 years ago.
The centre was opened on 24 January 2016 by the Ruler of Sharjah, Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. The multi-phase eco-tourism development is intended in future to comprise accommodation, a campsite and an astronomical observatory, with a total investment of some UAE Dhs 250 million. It will also include the development of a 450 km desert park. The centre is developed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). Visitor facilities at the archaeological centre include the Bystro Café, a gift shop and a range of guided excursions.
Tours are offered from the Centre to nearby attractions, including the popular ‘Fossil Rock’, or Jebel Mleiha. A range of horse-riding activities target beginners as well as advanced riders. The centre has an education outreach program and also offers discovery packages for families, as well as hosting groups and corporate events.