Ruler of Sharjah opens Sharjah Aquarium

The aquarium, located in the Al Khan area, provides visitors to Sharjah with a wonderful and rare glimpse into the mysterious marine life of the United Arab Emirates.

Visitors will discover the secrets of this precious aquatic world when they tour the aquarium and follow the paths through different marine ecosystems including those deep in the depths of the sea.

See over thirty different species, from the well-known to the rare and colourful.

Ms. Manal Ataya, Director of the Sharjah Museums Department said: "The opening of the aquarium is in keeping with the directives of His Highness to ensure that Sharjah Museums are among the best in the world and have diversity and richness in their varied collections."

She said that the aquarium, the result of British and local collaboration over the past two years, provides a unique experience and one not to be forgotten.

The aquarium is among the best in the world with its state-of-the-art technology and underwater collection.

The Sharjah Museums Department is dedicated to providing information about the fish, their lives and their habitats, and to this end, has complimented the showcases with documentaries on the marine life of the UAE, displayed on large, electronic screens.

Ms Ataya talked about her department's strategic plan which includes targets to upgrade and enhance Sharjah's Museums to preserve the heritage of the Emirate.

This includes preparing the necessary studies to upgrade the museums, providing specialized courses to qualify local employees, undertaking field research as required, preparing development programs, stimulating cultural and tourist events, and encouraging innovative thinking.

These undertakings are designed to create a link between today's new generation and the originality and deep-rootedness of the past, as well as developing co-operation with other world class institutions and organizations around the globe.

She also mentioned that the department will be opening the Sharjah Maritime Museum in the coming months.

This museum will showcase Sharjah's maritime past and present, including the earlier era of pearl diving, the different methods adopted, the obstacles encountered, the treasures found and the hardships endured.

Mr Ismail Al Hamadi, Assistant Curator of the Sharjah Aquarium added that the main aim of the aquarium is educational as it focuses on the characteristics of marine life in the United Arab Emirates.

He mentioned that while the aquarium has over 30 species, in addition to some species of sharks, the plan is to increase the number of species to over 50 in the next few months.

He added that the aquarium is also dedicated to the preservation of marine life and to learning more about reproductive and environmental issues according to the directives of His Highness, Ruler of Sharjah.

At the end of the aquarium tour, for example, the visitor will see a display of mangrove trees, essential in preserving the environment.

Mr Al Hamadi finished by advising that the rare species of fish have divers who are specialized in looking after these precious species.

The aquarium also has a wonderful and comfortable area for visitors overlooking Al Khan Creek.