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Mleiha Archaeological Centre

Mleiha Archaeological Centre

Mleiha Archaeological Centre
5
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
About
An Archaeological Centre with evidence of settlers in the region during the Paleolithic, Neolithic, Bronze, Iron, pre-Islamic, Islamic and modern ages. Mleiha also hosts a number of experiences covering archaeological tours, desert off-roading experiences, lounges and overnight camping.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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  • Jojo T
    2 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    A must-visit with so much to experience
    Wow! An unexpected treasure in the Sharjah desert. This incredible centre includes a comprehensive and well-thought out museum, several archaeological sites, and some really fun activities. On our short visit we started with a thoughtful and informative museum tour (I especially loved seeing the ancient jewellery, pottery, and stone carvings). Our guide, Omar, took time to really help us experience the rich history of the area, answering all our questions with great knowledge and passion. Next up, we went dune bashing with Lucas. Wow! This was the perfect combination of exhilarating and scary. We giggled a lot, and definitely felt safe with this expert driver. We saw two extraordinary rock formations; it was mind blowing to see all the fossils of ancient sea creatures in the middle of the desert. Our final treat was stargazing with Anurag. This was a huge highlight for me. I have always loved the moon, and to see it through the centre’s incredible telescope was so moving. We also saw an amazingly clear image of Saturn and one of its moons. Anurag was passionate, knowledgeable, and extremely kind. Even though the sky was a little hazy, he made sure we had an unforgettable experience. We only had a short trip this time, but I definitely want to go back for the glamping next time! If you visit Sharjah, don’t miss this awesome place, it is well worth your time.
    Dear jojot706, Thank you for your insightful review. Our entire team is thrilled to have offered you a memorable visit, from the museum tour with Omar to the dune bashing with Lucas and stargazing with Anurag. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we eagerly await your return for the glamping experience. We appreciate your visit and look forward to providing another exceptional experience next time.
    Written November 2, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited October 2023
    Traveled with friends
    Written October 19, 2023
  • Foxfire3781
    Halifax, United Kingdom12 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    An absolute must!
    Hands down one of the best things I have ever done, from the moment Sameer picked us up, on the dot in the lobby, to the moment we were dropped off we were treated like royalty! Comfortable air conditioned 4x4 for the hours trip out to Mleiha. Once we arrived we took a look around the centre which was incredibly interesting, we then had a quick coffee in the lovely cafe. We were then met by the resident expert who taught us all about fossils, including showing us a number that had been found nearby. We then got to create our own which was fun! After that we went across the sand dunes, not for the faint hearted or anyone that gets motion sick, but our 5 year old had the time of his life! We got to stop at multiple sites across the dunes to view the fossils in the rocks, including camel rock, we then watched the sun set from the top of the dunes which was magical. Back to the camp which we had all to ourselves! A delicious bbq, with traditional food and deserts, including soft drinks, tea and coffee. We then got to view the stars through a state of the art telescope, we saw Saturn and Jupiter! I was blown away! Then for the camel ride, the most chilled camel in Dubai! All to ourselves! My little boy was over the moon! We also got to visit the horses and feed them, along with meeting the resident cats and their kitten. Then a chill out around the fire and some beetle hunting, we managed to find a scorpion while we were there too! Then back to the hotel for a decent time, arrived back at 9:30! We will definitely be booking this excursion again next time we come. Thanks to everyone at Mleiha who made our visit extra special!
    Dear Foxfire3781, Thank you for sharing your experience. We're thrilled you had a memorable visit. We're glad to have made your visit special and can't wait to welcome you back for another exceptional excursion.
    Written November 2, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited November 2023
    Traveled with family
    Written November 1, 2023
  • Maryam A
    Dubai, United Arab Emirates283 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    GEMINIDS METEOR SHOWER
    We’ve booked GEMINIDS METEOR SHOWER with overnight stay, location, campsite refreshments, and food was amazing, the presenter kept us engaged during the event. Recommend the event as it’s filled with information, knowledge & relaxing stay . Dinner was amazing, seating areas and tents were fully equipped with necessities
    Dear maryama665 Thanks for sharing your positive experience with the Geminids Meteor Shower overnight stay! Delighted you enjoyed the amazing location, refreshments, and engaging event. Your recommendation means a lot, and we look forward to hosting you again!
    Written December 25, 2023
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited December 2023
    Traveled with friends
    Written December 18, 2023
  • Marilyn C
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Mleiha Western Archaeological Sites
    The views are amazing! We took a lots of pictures and videos as well. Most especial thanks to Mr. Andrew who guide us and explain everything. You won't be feel bored with him. This message from French and Filipina Adventurous. Have a nice day!
    Dear P4666MTmarilync, Thank you for your review! We're pleased that you enjoyed your visit. We hope to welcome you back soon for another memorable experience!
    Written February 26, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited February 2024
    Traveled as a couple
    Written February 23, 2024
  • Khalaf K
    Sharjah, United Arab Emirates283 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Archaeological sate of art center
    The Archeological Centre in Mlieha is place for people that are interested about Mlieha’s history. The center displayed Mlieha area history over different historical ages (stone, Bronze, Iron, and before Islam ) in a nice and simple way. Place is good for teens as well. The coffee shop in the center its amazing with a wonderful view on the archeological garden the deers. The center is equipped with audio headset system and other visual systems. The entrance to the Centre is free and tickets to the outside sites is required (optional). Highly recommended to visit.
    Dear KhalafK_13, Thank you for recommending the Archaeological Centre in Mleiha! We're glad you found the historical displays engaging and enjoyed our wonderful café. We look forward to welcoming you back for another visit soon!
    Written March 10, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited March 2024
    Traveled with family
    Written March 9, 2024
  • P34rl.91
    Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates149 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Worth to visit
    Worth a visit to see the museum. I was nice, but I believe it is still under recovery from heavy rain's damage. You will learn a lot from the museum When we went there some areas were under maintenance as it was damaged from the rain. But still worth to visit
    Dear P34rl91, Thank you for your feedback. We're glad you found the museum worth visiting and were able to learn a lot. We apologize for any inconvenience caused by the areas which were under maintenance. We hope to see you again soon to try out some of our other experiences.
    Written May 20, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited May 2024
    Traveled as a couple
    Written May 10, 2024
  • Swani85
    Canton of Zug, Switzerland393 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Beautiful place where horses are treaded as partner and not as objects
    A place where the welfare of the horses still takes center stage. Marlena and Ahmed warmly welcome us to the stable on every ride and you can see how much they care about the well-being of all the animals and selecting the right horse for each rider. The focus is not only on having a good time on the horse, but also on teaching the riders the correct handling and individual characteristics of each horse. We are always happy to come back.
    Dear Swani85, Thank you for your review. We're glad you appreciated the care and attention we provide to our horses. Marlena and Ahmed will also be pleased to hear your kind words. We look forward to your next visit!
    Written June 25, 2024
    This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
    Visited June 2024
    Traveled with friends
    Written June 19, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Popular mentions

5.0
5.0 of 5 bubbles375 reviews
Excellent
349
Very good
21
Average
4
Poor
1
Terrible
0

Zia R.
1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2021
It was our first time in Dubai last month and we wanted an experience different from the usual attractions in the city and "touristy" deserts. We availed the Mleiha Adventure Package and I can definitely say, it has been one unique experience. The booking process was smooth, with the staff being very helpful and accommodating to our queries. We started with a short but interesting tour in the museum with an excellent guide, followed by an off road visit to some of the archeological sites. We then got to explore the desert while in an adrenaline pumping SUV ride with an experienced and courteous driver. We got to view the beautiful sunset in the desert, then we were brought to the sunset lounge which was set up with a beautiful and relaxing ambiance. As we waited for dinner to be served, cold drinks and hot tea was made available for us to drink whenever we like. There was even a small archery area. Dinner was delicious and overflowing, we even got to take some leftovers home. Finally, after our guide patiently waited for us to finish dinner, we were given the chance to see the moon, Saturn, and Jupiter through a telescope, which is amazing as never in my life would I have expected to see the details of Jupiter and Saturn's rings with my own eyes (and not in a picture). Overall, this experience has definitely been worth the money and should be on everyone's list of things to do while in Dubai/ Sharjah.
Written September 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Zia_Travels09, Thank You for your kind words and detailed review. It really was our pleasure to provide you with an unforgettable experience. Hope to see you again when you next visit the U.A.E.
Written October 13, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Clémence C
Dubai, United Arab Emirates151 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Apr 2021
The experience at Meliha Archaeological Centre started with the breath taking archaeological site, followed by a sunset drinks and dinner in a private camp in the middle of the desert. The view of the mountains is unique.

We faced an issue with our booking thus I advise that you book way in advance if you wish a tour of the archeological site (the caves and Stone Age are the best to see) or do any activities such as horse riding. We did the stars gazing with Anurag and, Shihab organized a delicious dinner for us at the camp.

On another note, I would strongly recommend Mleiha camp to reduce plastic and offer wooden/paper packaging as we felt overwhelm with all the plastic boxes where the food was served at the camp.

Thanks again to Anurag and Shihab for making this experience amazing.

Clemence Cazeau
Written April 18, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Clémence C, Thank you for your detailed review about your experience with us at Mleiha - we will work hard to improve our services based on the feedback you have provided including reducing the use of single-use plastics. We do hope you will return to Mleiha in the future for an even better experience!
Written June 20, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Valquiria J
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia4 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Sep 2020 • Friends
I visited the museum yesterday and I was very impressed with the customer experience. If you are interested about fossils ask for Nirmal Rajah, he was so passionate about them and taught us about all the types of fossils in the region. He even invited us to go to his office and showed us his personal collection of fossils. A whole lecture! I highly recommend this museum if you want to know more about the development of the Arabian peninsula and the early human settlers of the region. Good for a day trip from Dubai.
Written September 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Valquiria J, Thank you for your review, we are glad to know that you had a nice time at our museum, we would love to see you again at Mleiha.
Written October 8, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Jeff J
Redding, CT36 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2020 • Couples
My wife and I were pleasantly surprised to find such a professional and modern museum. Abdullah was exceptionally warm and took a lot of time to tour us through the museum and give us a lot of extra context. It’s worth the drive from Dubai. Their cafe is wide and bright with great juice tea coffee and sweets options. Give it a try.
Written August 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Kathy S
Dubai, United Arab Emirates36 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jun 2020
Took a little detour on the way to Fujeirah and stoped off at the Mleiha Archaeological Centre and what a pleasant surprise!
It is a beautiful building, blending in with the surrounding landscape.
Inside it is modern, social distancing, gloves provided and you walk through the disinfectant mist on arrival.
Very interesting small area of atifacts from the region seperated into the different 'ages'
The coffee shop was the highlight, a beautful area with lounge seating areas too.
Cappuchino was the best!
Not much walking around as it was too hot but will definitely make a return visit!
Written June 21, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

dailla
Dubai, United Arab Emirates13 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2020
Thank you very much Mleiha team for a fantastic day! Firstly, we had lunch in their restaurant and visited the museum, the staff was really nice and always with a smile on their faces. The place was very clean and the museum is very informative.
In the afternoon, we did a tour with Sihab and we enjoyed a lot! The desert was SO clean and he drove and showed us around very professionally, we loved it! Afterwards we did horseriding with Rashid, he was extremly kind and let us feed the horses and explained us more about the animals and their characteristics. I totally recommend this place, its perfect for second time visitors who want to discover new places in the UAE. Perfect to spend the weekend and enjoy a different scenery with your friends and family!!
Written September 10, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear dgascon, Thank you for your lovely feedback, we are glad you enjoyed your time in Mleiha exploring the desert and riding our horses. We hope to welcome you again soon.
Written October 8, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

DanielTakacs
Dubai, United Arab Emirates64 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Jan 2021 • Couples
One of the best desert experience we ever had. Everything was smoothly organized and we welcomed by Ayoub and many other staff. Our driver Usman took well care of us and showed every small little detail in the desert which normally you would never notice. He also ushered and waited for us patiently whenever we wanted to take pictures or we went for horse riding. Thank you Usman 🙏🏻 Then Ayoub showed us around the museum, he was apologetic because he usually does Arabic tours but I have to tell you, it was one of my best tour guide ever! Thank you for the great back stories and your knowledge of the local history

I would love to give 5 star plus for the whole place because I never expected such a warm hospitality in the middle of the dessert, the coffee shop also serving nice, third wave coffees and delicious food. Thank you for that amazing weekend experience and thank Ajmal also for you to organizing everything in such a short notice and even if you were not there on our visit, made sure that everything fine. Thank you for all of you!
Written January 29, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Daniel, Thank you for your excellent feedback about Mleiha, we are very glad you had a wonderful experience with us. We do hope to see you again in the future!
Written April 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

MMT
2 contributions
4.0 of 5 bubbles
Aug 2021 • Family
Perseids meteor shower - the event was organized well by the center.. the food the carpet and pillow arrangements was well done. While waiting for the meter shower was long, the team kept the audience engaged with presentations, moon and planet watching. Thank you to Jackie for arranging the tickets and providing all the directions and instructions.
Written August 13, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear MMT-Trips, Thank you for your review and we are pleased to hear that you enjoyed our Perseids Meteor Shower event. Stay tuned on our Instagram @discovermleiha to get the latest updates on our future events. We hope to see you again at Mleiha Archaeological Centre.
Written September 19, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

DOtieno
OffRoad-Zone, United Arab Emirates1 contribution
5.0 of 5 bubbles
Oct 2021
I called Mleiha to inquire about a customized event for my clients and I was assisted by Jacquiline. It was for the 10th year anniversary of the company. She is very professional and detailed especially in providing us with our requests, from scheduling the campsite inspection, arranging a particular food that we requested. The setup at the camp is really beautiful and amazing from the stage set up, red carpet, screen, projector, and speakers. All in all, Jacque and her team gave the extra mile in providing 100 % customer satisfaction. Would look forward to working with her in the future.
Written October 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear DOtieno, Congratulations on the 10th year anniversary! Thank you for your kind words and appreciation. We have passed on your feedback to Ms. Jacquiline and the rest of the team as well. We look forward to hosting future events for you!
Written October 20, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Qiuling L
8 contributions
5.0 of 5 bubbles
May 2021
Loved it, loved it, loved it! Would definitely be back for more.

It was an afternoon of education and fun.
I took two packages - Archaeological tour and Fossil hunt.
The museum exhibits were interesting, the archaeological sites were breathtaking, the fossil hunt was fun! Of course, I wont forget the kindness from the staff the Centre - the sales staff was so patient on the phone for me, the team came early for my booking, and the smiles from the staff in the Centre - beautiful.

Personally, I am grateful to have my activities with education coordinator Prabhu and transport provided by Umar. They have made my solo trip so enjoyable!

The Centre is only an hour's drive from Dubai, and with transport option available, I strongly encourage a visit with an open and curious mind. Check out its website!
Written May 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear qiuling8686. Thank you for your excellent review about Mleiha and our education packages! We are glad you enjoyed your experience with us and we do look forward to welcoming you again in the future!
Written June 20, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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Mleiha Archaeological Centre - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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