The object will be the result of an agreement signed by the Sharjah Office for Investment and Development (Shurooq) and the Sharjah Center for Astronomy and Space Sciences (SCASS), according to which the observatories will be built in a number of tourist destinations throughout the emirate. The first stage of the Mleikh project was presented in January by a proposal for tourists to explore the ancient archaeological sites, visit the archaeological center of Mleikh, get acquainted with the natural beauty of the area and take part in various outdoor activities.
According to some estimates, AED 250 million (US $ 69 million) will be invested in the development of the project over the next few years. An astronomical observatory with a powerful telescope provided by SCASS is expected to be launched during the second phase. The archaeological center, located 50 km from the city, is an ideal place for such an object. In accordance with the above agreement, Shurooq will promote the brand SCASS, located at the University of Sharjah, for tourists. The center, which was opened to the public last year, is equipped with a high-tech planetarium with 200 seats, a 450 mm reflector telescope and a 180 mm refractor.