Al Hefaiyah, the Lake Among Mountains

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Attractions Sharjah

by Alexandra Mansilla

Al Hefaiyah, the Lake Among Mountains

3 Apr 2024

Before we explore Lake Al Hefaiyah in detail, let's take a look at some key numbers.

The lake covers an area of 132,000 square metres.

It has a capacity of 155 million gallons.

The depth of the lake reaches up to four metres.

Surrounding the lake is a 3.17 km dual-lane road, providing the option to drive or walk around.

There is also a designated area of 620 square metres for children to play.

The mosque adjacent to the lake can accommodate up to 495 worshippers.

Impressive, isn't it? If you are as amazed as we are, it is time to hit the road. Head towards the Sharjah-Kalba Road after passing through the Al Hiyar Tunnel, and make your way to Al Hefaiyah Lake (we have included directions here — so be sure to save them to your "Want To Go" list in Google Maps). Al Hefaiyah Lake is a new destination that was officially opened on March 30 by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.

The view

The view is... wow, impressive? Fascinating? Exciting? Actually, you could sum up all these words in one: breathtaking. Especially for those of us glued to our laptop screens seven days a week. A trip to the lake offers the perfect respite for your eyes and soul. With its expansive waters and the majestic Hajar mountains embracing it, it is an oasis away from the hustle and bustle (at least until the tourists catch on).

Source: www.sgmb.ae

The mosque

The mosque covers an area of 852 square meters and can accommodate up to 495 worshippers. It includes a women's prayer hall for 110 individuals and an outdoor courtyard that can host up to 2040 worshippers.

In terms of design, the mosque follows the traditional Fatimid architectural style, featuring stunning geometric and floral patterns. Its minaret reaches a height of 36 meters.

But there is more to it than just that. Additionally, the mosque houses an Islamic library and provides separate ablution areas for both men and women.

Source: www.sgmb.ae

Mountain trails

For those who are mindful of their daily step count, there are mountain trails covering 11.7 kilometres. These trails offer a variety of paths with different lengths and difficulty levels, such as the Al Hefaiyah Lake Trail, Eastern Mountain Trail, Southern Al Friesh Mountain Trail, Northern Al Friesh Mountain Trail, and Al Friesh Lake Trail.

Source: www.sgmb.ae

Rest house

You can unwind at the 500-square-meter Al Hefaiyah Rest House, boasting stunning views on one side and an 8,500-square-meter play area and green space on the other. Imagine yourself dining at the restaurant in the Al Hefaiyah Rest House, taking in the captivating landscape. Are you still at home?

The development

The lake's construction used modern technology and special materials suitable for the hilly climate. Pipes were installed to connect the mountains to the lake, allowing for water storage, rainwater collection, and runoff management. There is also a 3.2-kilometre conduit that channels water from the lowlands and surrounding mountains into the lake, along with barriers and filters to keep out impurities and sediment.

by Alexandra Mansilla