SHARJAH 6 September 2018: H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has issued an Emiri Decree establishing Ed Dhelaimah Nature Reserve in Sharjah. It was announced as a ‘Protected Area’ in March 2007.
“Ed Dhelaimah” in Arabic means “The Dark Area”, because of the high density of bushy big close (Ghaf) trees (Prosopis cineraria), which makes it dark during the day since sun light don’t pass through.
It is located in Al Batayeh area, Sharjah- Al Dhaid Road, and specifically to the east of crossroad 12, according to EPAA.
Total area is estimated to be 1.9413 km2
Decree No. 40 of 2018 stipulates the prohibition of the acts, actions and activities that would damage or deteriorate the ecosystem and cause wildlife or maritime damages.
The new decree also states that all the different species as well as the birds and other organisms enjoy the protection of the reserve. The article of the Decree states that no activities, actions or acts should be carried out in the areas surrounding the Reserve, only with a permit from the competent authority, said Wam.
Without prejudice to any penalty imposed by any other legislation, whoever contravenes the provisions of this Decree shall be punished by the penalty prescribed in Federal Law No. 24 of 1999.
The competent authority shall administer the reserve and take the necessary administrative measures in coordination of the mechanism of cooperation with the concerned authorities.
The Decree shall be effective from the date of issuance and shall be published in the Official Gazette.