Grapes Harvested: New Era in Agriculture

Grapes Harvested Above the Clouds: A New Agricultural Era Begins

Not far from the city of Kalba, within the Sharjah emirate, at an altitude of 850 meters above sea level, a new agricultural story unfolds: the first grape harvest of the Ghamam mountain project has been successfully completed. This initiative at the peak of Jebel Deem not only expands local agricultural opportunities but also offers a unique tourism experience.

Harvesting Above the Clouds

The development named "Ghamam," meaning "above the clouds," aims to transform a previously rocky, unused mountainous area into a fertile, lush farm. With more than 4,500 plants, including grapevines, olive, apple, and pomegranate trees, this project spectacularly combines sustainable agriculture with nature-oriented tourism. The successful grape cultivation proves that the mountainous climate and soil conditions, with the appropriate infrastructure and expertise, can create excellent opportunities for food production.

Ghamam Retreat – Where Agriculture Meets Tourism

The 4,700 square-meter, crescent-shaped complex offers a special experience for visitors. The upper level features a restaurant, café, and reading space offering fresh ingredients grown directly on the mountain. The lower level welcomes families with viewing terraces, a multi-function hall, a prayer room, and playgrounds.

The aim of the project is for people to be not just spectators but active participants in mountain farming - from grape picking to tasting. The view is breathtaking: the coastline of Kalba and the surrounding mountain valleys simultaneously offer natural and cultural experiences.

Infrastructure for Success

The key to the project's success is robust background infrastructure. Two new routes - totaling 10 kilometers in length, with two bridges - provide easy access for tourists and agricultural equipment alike. The three-lane roads are ideal for buses and heavy vehicles, ensuring smooth agricultural operations on the hills while visitors enjoy convenient access.

Kalba's Transformation and Future Prospects

The Ghamam project is just one element in the transformation of Kalba city. Recently opened attractions like the Hanging Gardens, Al Hefaiyah Lake, and the iconic clock tower all contribute to making the city a unique tourist destination on the UAE's eastern coast.

Building on the success of the Jebel Deem project, further developments are planned. An international FIFA-standard stadium is being constructed atop Mount Daym, at 650 meters altitude, offering an ideal microclimate with low temperature and humidity for sports events. Additionally, a 100-room sports hotel will be built, which will be directly connected by foot to the "Above the Clouds" retreat.

Sharjah's Pioneering Role in Mountain Development

Ghamam is the second mountain development project in Sharjah, following the Al Suhub Resting Place, which rises 600 meters above sea level above the city of Khor Fakkan. These joint projects showcase Sharjah's long-term commitment to innovative, eco-friendly mountain developments, serving food security, economic diversification, and tourism.

Mountain agriculture not only creates a new source of income but also contributes to the UAE's 2051 national food security strategy. The Ghamam project sets an example for other regions in sustainably integrating challenging terrains into production.

(The source of the article is a Sharjah News release.)