Luxury Eco Retreats Without Wi-Fi in Sharjah

Digital Detox and Stargazing Calm: New Luxury Caravans Open in Sharjah Mountains

Sometimes less is more – especially when travel isn't just about moving from one place to another but about slowing down, delving deep, and reconnecting with nature. This is the essence of Sharjah's latest tourist development, the Nomad, set to open in the fourth quarter of 2025 in the mountainous valleys of Kalba, on the eastern coast of the Emirate. This unique project, a new member of the 'Sharjah Collection,' combines proximity to nature with luxury while daringly embracing the off-grid concept like never before.

Luxury Without Wi-Fi? Yes, It's Possible – and Appealing

The Nomad will comprise 20 locally-built, solar-powered luxury caravans, relying entirely on natural resources. Their uniqueness lies not only in technological sustainability but in what they consciously don't offer: no Wi-Fi, no night lights, and no disturbing light or noise pollution. The aim is for guests to disconnect from the digital world and rediscover the magic of the night sky, quietness, and the experience of real presence.

The idea is not just eco-friendly but also a response to a globally growing demand. According to forecasts by the Global Wellness Institute, wellness tourism is set to surpass the $1 trillion mark by 2025, while interest in 'slow travel' is increasing by 10% annually worldwide. This trend is also noticeable in the UAE's emirates: the number of overnight stays in Sharjah rose by 11% in 2024 and continues to grow in the first quarter of this year.

The Sharjah Collection – Diverse Ecotourism Landscapes

The Nomad isn't the only attempt at sustainable luxury: the 'Sharjah Collection' currently offers a total of 154 accommodations across seven different locations, ranging from deserts to mangrove forests, to historic urban areas. The entire portfolio is managed by the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), which has invested over 300 million dirhams in expanding the network in recent years. The total tourism investment value exceeds 850 million dirhams.

Al Faya Retreat – A Meeting of Past and Present in the Desert

Located in the Mleiha desert, the Al Faya Retreat has transformed two 1960s buildings into a five-room boutique hotel. Its uniqueness lies in combining desert tour adventures with modern dining experiences, offering a special journey for those wishing to deeply engage with the region's geological and cultural heritage.

Kingfisher Retreat – Luxury Tents in a Mangrove Reserve

Another gem of Kalba is the Kingfisher Retreat, situated in a mangrove swamp area and operating with the support of the Environment and Protected Areas Authority. The 40 sea-view tents here are constructed with sustainable materials, allowing guests to experience the delicate balance of the ecosystem up close.

Moon Retreat – Glamping and Stargazing

The Moon Retreat is located in the Mleiha area, offering a 'glamorous camping' experience. Dome-shaped tents and premium accommodations provide a venue for yoga classes, stargazing, and the direct enjoyment of nature.

Al Badayer Retreat – Caravanserai Style

Situated among the red dunes of Sharjah, the Al Badayer Retreat evokes the atmosphere of traditional caravanserais. Here, visitors can indulge in dune adventures, camel rides, and authentic experiences while relaxing in a simple, nature-based environment.

Najd Al Meqsar and Al Rayaheen – Reimagined Cultural Heritage

In Khorfakkan city, two unique projects are underway. One is the Najd Al Meqsar Retreat, built around a 300-year-old fort and renovated heritage houses. The other, the Al Rayaheen Retreat, has transformed 19 traditional homes into hospitality and cultural spaces, working closely with experts from the Sharjah Institute for Heritage. These projects are not just tourist destinations but living guardians of the cultural identity of the region.

Why Are the Nomad and Similar Projects Important?

The Nomad – and similar initiatives – don't just create new tourism opportunities but help redefine what 'travel' means today. Instead of visitors ticking off a list of sights, these ecotourism sites encourage a deeper connection with a particular landscape, culture, and nature. After the overload of the digital world, the Wi-Fi-free, light-free tranquility can be especially appealing to those who want to truly disconnect – both literally and figuratively.

Closing Thought

Sharjah sets an example of how it can be sustainable, authentic, and still appealing to today's traveler. The Nomad and its companions show that the future of tourism is not only about moving from point A to point B but also about experiencing the journey – more slowly, more deeply, and more consciously.

(The source of the article is a statement from the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq).)