Buhais Geology Park Recognised for Excellence in Sustainable Tourism

Sharjah's specialist destination celebrating geological heritage has received formal recognition for its contribution to responsible tourism and visitor enrichment.

The Environment and Protected Areas Authority in Sharjah has received the Sharjah Sustainable Tourism Destination Award, Category Two, in recognition of Buhais Geology Park’s commitment to excellence and sustainable practice. The honour was presented during the 13th Sharjah International Travel & Tourism Forum, held at Al Jawaher Reception and Convention Centre under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.

Hessa Al Shamsi, Director of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority, accepted the award on behalf of the institution. The recognition underscores the park’s role in advancing responsible tourism practices across the emirate whilst enriching the visitor experience through thoughtful stewardship of natural heritage.

Inaugurated in January 2020 by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, Buhais Geology Park exists as a specialised destination dedicated to revealing Sharjah’s geological narrative. The park’s carefully designed facilities and exhibits invite visitors to explore the region’s distinctive geological formations and trace the evolution of its natural environment. Jebel Buhais and its surrounding landscape hold considerable scientific significance, and the park translates this into accessible, engaging experiences that connect people with the earth’s deep history.

As we reported during the forum, the 13th International Travel and Tourism Forum examined global tourism’s evolution through resilience, innovation and education, reflecting the UAE’s broader commitment to strengthening its tourism sector through responsible development.

What it means for Abu Dhabi

This recognition of Sharjah’s geological park underscores a growing regional emphasis on sustainable tourism that enriches rather than merely extracts from natural environments. The award signals the UAE’s strategic direction towards tourism models that preserve cultural and natural heritage whilst creating meaningful visitor experiences. Such initiatives strengthen the wider tourism ecosystem across the emirates, establishing benchmarks for environmental stewardship and responsible destination management.

For Abu Dhabi, the award reinforces the value of investing in specialised attractions that educate and inspire. Geology parks and heritage destinations represent an opportunity to diversify tourism offerings beyond conventional models, appealing to visitors seeking deeper engagement with the region’s scientific and natural story. The recognition validates the approach of blending conservation, education and tourism as complementary pursuits rather than competing interests.

Source: WAM