His Highness Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has ordered the restoration of a 15th-century archaeological site at Al Luluyah Beach and the construction of a new heritage market overlooking the waterfront.

The Dh8 million project is expected to be completed within six months and forms part of Sharjah’s ongoing efforts to preserve its cultural heritage while boosting tourism in the emirate’s eastern region.

Announcing the project, Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, said the development will feature 20 heritage-style shops inspired by traditional Emirati architecture, along with restaurants, cafés and visitor seating areas.

The project will also include shaded walkways and visitor-friendly routes through the archaeological site, allowing residents and tourists to explore the historic landmark more comfortably.

A key feature of the development is its dual-facing design, with one side overlooking the sea and the other facing the archaeological site, creating a destination that blends heritage, leisure and tourism.

The archaeological site on Al Luluyah Beach dates back to the 15th century and is considered an important part of Khorfakkan’s historical landscape.

Al Musallam said the initiative is part of a wider heritage preservation programme across Sharjah’s eastern region. Additional projects planned for Kalba and Dibba Al Hisn include restoration work at Dibba Al Hisn Heritage Village and its traditional market, as well as upgrades to the Khor Kalba Museum.