Sharjah ruler Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi has issued an Emiri decree establishing a new nature reserve in the emirate.
Decree No. 40 of 2018 stipulates the prohibition of activities in Ed Dhelaimah Nature Reserve that would damage or deteriorate the ecosystem and cause wildlife or maritime damages.
Ed Dhelaimah, which was first announced as a protected area in March 2007, is Arabic for The Dark Area because of the high density of Ghaf trees which makes it dark during the day as sunlight struggles to pass through.
It is one of the most important protected areas in Sharjah, where many wild animals were released by Al Qasimi. It also provide an appropriate environment for endangered fauna and flora in addition of being a home for some reptiles, foxes, and some birds like Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse and Grey Francolin.
According to state news agency WAM, the new decree also states that all animal species including birds and other organisms “enjoy the protection of the reserve”.
It said that no activities can be carried out within the reserve without a permit from the relevant authority and any violations will be punishable by law.
“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 added.
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