In an unexpected twist for the arid region, grapevines have successfully taken root at an elevation of 850 meters on the rugged slopes of Jebel Deem, located in Sharjah’s eastern mountains. This transformation from barren rock to flourishing vineyard has been realized at the Ghamam retreat, where the UAE marks its inaugural venture into mountain grape cultivation, resulting in a fruitful harvest.
Transforming the Landscape: The Ghamam Initiative
The Ghamam project, translating to “above the clouds” in Arabic, is an ambitious initiative led by Sheikh Dr. Sultan Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah. This project has seen over 4,500 trees, including grapevines, olives, apples, and pomegranates, planted on Jebel Deem’s slopes as part of the Emirate’s innovative approach to environmental sustainability. Recent images and videos shared by local news sources highlighted this noteworthy harvest, showcasing a significant achievement in the realm of sustainable agriculture in mountainous terrain.
Documentation from the Sharjah Ruler’s office elaborates, “Its unique location provides guests with breathtaking views of the city’s coastline and the surrounding mountainous landscape, adding cultural and social value.”
A Fusion of Agriculture and Tourism
This agricultural innovation is just one aspect of the Ghamam retreat, a crescent-shaped destination that integrates farming, tourism, and recreational activities. Spanning 4,700 square meters, it features two floors that harmoniously merge the essence of mountain hospitality with immersive experiences for visitors.
- The upper level comprises a restaurant, an outdoor café, and a reading nook that utilizes fresh produce grown right on the mountain.
- The ground level boasts viewing platforms, a multipurpose hall, prayer spaces, and playgrounds, all designed to foster a strong connection between guests and the surrounding natural beauty.
This development serves a dual purpose: it demonstrates mountain agriculture in action while also providing a venue for cultural, social, and educational interactions.
The Evolution of Kalba
Situated in the Kalba region, the Ghamam project enriches Sharjah’s reputation as a hub for pioneering developments. Kalba has already seen the emergence of major attractions such as the Hanging Gardens, Al Hefaiyah Lake, and a prominent clock tower, enhancing its status as a destination for eco- and agri-tourism.
The Ghamam harvest further contributes to this transformation by offering visitors a mountain-to-table experience that merges scenic vistas with food sustainability. Additionally, this initiative aligns with Sharjah’s broader environmental and economic aspirations, generating multiple revenue streams while emphasizing agricultural education and sustainable practices.
Building the Future
To support this remote location, a robust infrastructure has been established, including 10 kilometers of newly constructed roads and two bridges. One bridge connects the Wadi Al Helo Tunnel to the new Sharjah-Kalba Road, while the other leads directly to the summit, designed to accommodate heavy agricultural machinery and tourist transport for efficient and safe access.
Plans for the future in this area feature a FIFA-standard stadium on Mount Daym, located 650 meters above sea level, where temperatures are anticipated to be 10°C cooler than the urban landscape. This facility will be accompanied by a 100-room sports tourism hotel linked to the Ghamam retreat via a pedestrian path, forming part of a comprehensive long-term strategy for sustainable mountain development that integrates sports and hospitality.
The Second Mountain Retreat in Sharjah
The Ghamam project follows the successful launch of Al Suhub Rest Area, which was established 600 meters above Khor Fakkan and inaugurated in 2021. Together, these projects highlight Sharjah’s leading role in mountain tourism and eco-friendly developments. As the UAE strives towards its National Food Security Strategy 2051, endeavors like Ghamam provide a model for converting challenging terrains into productive and ecologically responsible landscapes.