Ruler of Sharjah tours new Khor Fakkan amphitheatre as regeneration plans take shape

Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi was briefed on the progress of the development

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The Ruler of Sharjah toured a vast open-air venue set to open as part of a major regeneration of the emirate's east coast.

Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi was briefed by project engineers on the progress of the Khor Fakkan amphitheatre, which is being constructed in an area spanning 37,000 square metres.

The leisure attraction is due to welcome audiences in the near future.

Plans for its opening ceremony are already in the works and will feature a screening of the film Khor Fakkan.

The 2020 production documents the town's invasion by the Portuguese in the 1600s.

Sheikh Dr Sultan also inspected Al Rafisah Dam and directed shaded areas for family and barbecue sites to be established, along with a range of facilities such as restaurants, cafes and play areas to boost the visitor experience.

The Ruler of Sharjah has led efforts to unlock the potential of Khor Fakkan as a vibrant tourist attraction in recent years.

Last month he inspected the development of a new heritage area encompassing a canal, hotel and traditional souq.

Old markets have been restored, shops rejuvenated and people will soon be able to stay in boutique heritage accommodation in the town.

He also toured the canal, which is 700 metres long and five metres wide, and connects to the sea at Khor Fakkan beach.

The authorities are also converting several old houses into a new hotel called Al Rayaheen. Sheikh Dr Sultan also visited a 1950s-era house named Bait Al Shabab.

Shees Park, a 11,362 square-metre facility with a 25-metre high artificial waterfall opened last month.

A waterpark and branch of the Chedi are set to open in Khor Fakkan soon.