Close
The ancient sites of Mleiha, Jebel Buhais, Jebel Faya, and Jebel Emeileh span from the Palaeolithic to the Late Pre-Islamic ages, revealing a rich historical and cultural
legacy. These sites hold exceptional archaeological significance, showcasing early human settlements, burial grounds, and trade routes that shaped the region’s past.
With diverse landscapes ranging from rugged mountains to desert plains, the area also boasts remarkable biodiversity, making it a unique intersection of history and
nature
2014-2016
Despite their historical value, these sites remained underutilised as tourism destinations, lacking the infrastructure and interpretation needed to engage visitors. A strategic approach was required to transform Mleiha into a sustainable tourism hub, leveraging its archaeological heritage, biodiversity, and ecotourism potential. This initiative aimed to enhance accessibility, visitor experiences, and conservation efforts while positioning Mleiha for a future UNESCO World Heritage listing.
Full Design and Build Project Management
Managed the entire project lifecycle, including master planning, design, procurement, execution, and budget control, ensuring seamless integration of visitor experiences, infrastructure, and sustainability within set
Visitor Master Planning
Developed a strategic master plan connecting key archaeological sites, optimising access routes, transportation, and visitor pathw
In-Situ Artefact Display
Designed and implemented on-site exhibitions
featuring authentic artefacts and replicas, providing historical context while maintaining conservations standards
Interpretation Techniques
Applied traditional interpretation methods, including illustrations, hypothetical reconstructions, models, and interactive displays
to enhance visitor engagement.
Walkways and Circulation Design
Installed footbridges, ramps, viewing decks, and designated walkways to facilitate safe and guided movement throughout
the archaeological sites.
Protective Structures
Constructed roofing, sheds, fences, and barriers to safeguard heritage sites against environmental and human-induced
deterioration.
Environmental & Landscape Integration
Designed exhibition spaces that harmonise with Mleiha’s natural landscape, integrating sustainable materials and minimal-impact
structures.
Themed Visitor Experiences
Curated specialised visitor journeys, including archaeological exploration zones, desert ecology insights, and trade route narratives to highlight Mleiha’s historical significance.
Educational & Training Materials
Developed informative resources for tour guides and educational programs to support deeper visitor understanding and engagement.
Signage and Way-finding
Developed an integrated signage system with explanatory panels, maps, labels, and printed materials to improve visitor orientation and
storytelling throughout the archaeological sites
Visitor Amenities and Refreshment Points
Established designated rest areas and a refreshment hub at Jebel Buhais Fort, offering visitors a scenic platform with food and
beverage options.
Lighting and Visual Enhancements
Designed and installed sustainable lighting solutions and visual effects to improve site visibility and enhance the nighttime visitor experience
Mleiha Book – The Unwritten History
Curated a comprehensive book coauthored by Professors Sabah A. Jassim, Margarethe Uerpmann, and Hans-Peter Uerpmann documenting Mleiha’s archaeological and cultural heritage, combining research, historical analysis, and visual storytelling to enrich scholarly and visitor understanding.
Sharjah Archaeology Authority Branding
Developed a distinctive visual identity, including logo design and brand guidelines, reflecting the authority’s commitment to preserving Sharjah’s heritage while enhancing its public recongnition and institutional presence
Tour Guide Training Program
Developed and delivered a comprehensive training program for tour guides at Mleiha Archaeological Centre, equipping them with
interpretation techniques, historical knowledge, and visitor engagement skills to enhance guided experiences.
Mleiha Mobile Application
Developed and launched a multilingual mobile application serving as an interactive audioguide, narrating Mleiha’s history, archaeological discoveries, and cultural significance, enhancing visitor engagement through immersive storytelling and expert interpretation.
