As part of a series of projects aimed at transforming the city on the eastern coast of Sharjah into a major recreation center for families and nature lovers, the Al Furaish Lake plan has been approved. This extensive new body of water, surrounded by green mountains, cascading waterfalls, and walking areas, is intended to change the appearance of part of Kalba.
The development plan for Al Furaish Lake, covering an area of 51,200 square meters and capable of holding up to 28 million gallons of water, was approved by a member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. Trees are being planted near the construction site, and the waterfalls will frame the greenery, directing their water into the sea.
At ground level, visitors can park their cars in one of 200 parking spaces and explore the area on foot, turning the lake and its surroundings into a place where families can walk, spend time outdoors, and admire the mountains and coastline of Kalba.
Rafis-style Destination
Located behind Al Marsh Square, the lake will stretch approximately 750 meters. Earlier this year, Sheikh Dr. Sultan revealed details of the project, describing it as a park where children can have fun, and comparing the planned experience in Al Furaish to the Al Rafis Dam in Khorfakkan.
The Al Rafis Dam, situated among the Khorfakkan mountains, is one of the most popular natural family recreation spots in Sharjah. Its lake covers about 82,000 square meters, and visitors can kayak and pedal boat on the water while surrounded by rugged mountains. The presence of cafes, restaurants, and seating areas allows families to spend hours there rather than just stopping for photos.
Lakes, Waterfalls, and Mountains
Al Furaish will blend harmoniously into the landscape that has been developing in Kalba over several years. One of the most impressive features is the Hanging Gardens, which opened in March 2024 along the Sharjah-Kalba road. This attraction spans 1.6 million square feet and rises 281 meters above sea level, featuring over 100,000 trees, flower-covered terraces, and waterfalls flowing through the mountain scenery.
Visitors can traverse hiking trails of varying difficulty, use a 760-meter running track, or take a sightseeing train along an 820-meter route with four stations. Restaurants are positioned to offer views of the gardens and waterfalls, including one restaurant at an altitude of 270 meters above sea level with a panoramic view of the landscape.
Nearby is Al Hafaya Lake, which adds another vast expanse of water to the mountainous landscape of Kalba. It covers an area of 132,000 square meters and can store 155 million gallons of water. This lake was designed not only as a recreational area but also for rainwater harvesting and runoff from the valley; water flows from the surrounding mountains and lowlands via a 3.2 km aqueduct. A network of mountain trails spanning 11.7 km runs around this area, and a resort overlooks the Kalba mountains. Green areas, a playground, and waterfalls are part of the surrounding development.
Transformation of Kalba
The new lake is only part of a much larger transformation taking place in the city, located approximately 120 km east of Sharjah city and about 12 km south of Fujairah. Sheikh Dr. Sultan previously stated earlier this year that a number of projects in Kalba are expected to open in December 2026, noting that authorities are in a 'race against time' to complete them.
These projects include the Al Khiyar project, which encompasses a lake and recreation area, development around Jebel Dheem, modernization of the Corniche, and new roads. New routes are being developed to improve city mobility. In July, Sheikh Dr. Sultan presented plans for two residential projects involving houses built within the sea as part of this development.
Kalba's heritage is also becoming part of the city's visitor offering. Plans announced this year include the Kalba Heritage Museum, envisioned as a 'living museum' where traditional crafts and art will be demonstrated rather than merely displayed. A restaurant will be erected overlooking the development. Another planned attraction, Shell Theatre, is designed with an unusual entrance through which visitors approach via an underwater passage.