Plan a nature-filled Eid Al Adha getaway at the Hanging Gardens in Kalba

Dubai: If you are hoping to escape the soaring summer heat in the UAE this Eid Al Adha long weekend, Kalba offers a refreshing retreat. 

Located on the country’s north-eastern coast along the Sharjah-Kalba Road (E102), this scenic region tends to be slightly cooler than inland areas and with a possibility of light rainfall, it could be the perfect time to explore nature. For the best experience, plan to visit early in the day or later in the evening to avoid peak heat.

One of Kalba’s standout attractions is the Hanging Gardens, a sprawling mountainside park that offers panoramic views, cascading waterfalls, and lush greenery.

Opened in March 2024, the Hanging Gardens in Kalba is one of Sharjah’s latest tourism projects. Spread over 1.6 million square feet and perched 281 metres above sea level, this mountainside oasis features terraced gardens, an artificial waterfall, and recreational areas for all ages. 

Whether you're looking for a peaceful walk surrounded by greenery or a place to keep the kids entertained, the Hanging Gardens offers something for everyone.

The gardens are home to over 100,000 trees, tiered floral displays, and beautifully landscaped paths that provide a welcome contrast to the bustle of city life. The highlight is the multi-level artificial waterfall that flows into a serene lake, particularly striking at night when illuminated.

The Hanging Gardens can be found along the Sharjah-Kalba Road (E102). Travelling from Sharjah city, you’ll pass through the Kalba Tunnel, after which the gardens will appear on your right-hand side. Signage is clear and parking is available on-site.

Kalba offers a unique blend of mountain scenery and cooler coastal air, making it a great destination during warmer months. With Eid Al Adha offering a long weekend from Thursday, June 5 to Sunday, June 8, it’s a great opportunity to explore this lesser-known gem in the UAE.

Here’s what you can expect at the Hanging Gardens:

Explore the walking and running trails - A 760-metre running track loops around the gardens, offering visitors a scenic path for exercise or leisurely strolls.

There are multiple food options within the park. A central restaurant can host up to 215 guests, while another mountain-top restaurant built in traditional wooden architectural style, sits 270 metres above sea level and accommodates 100 diners. The upper-level restaurant boasts panoramic views of three sides of the garden.

The excursion train makes it easy to explore different parts of the gardens. It can carry 55 passengers and stops at four designated stations, including one at the upper cafeteria. Each station offers shaded waiting areas and connects visitors to nearby attractions and facilities.

The park has three separate play areas, tailored to different age groups, and a skateboard park for more adventurous visitors. For those interested in climbing, the park also features mountain routes with three difficulty levels, making it suitable for beginners and experienced climbers alike.

Entry to the Hanging Gardens is just Dh5, making it an affordable day out for families, couples, or solo travellers.

Facilities include:

Sharjah Municipality has announced that public parking will be free across the emirate from Friday, 6 June to Sunday, 8 June for Eid Al Adha. However, this exemption does not apply to seven-day paid zones, which are clearly marked with blue parking information signs and remain operational during holidays.

In February 2025, Sharjah introduced paid public parking in Kalba. Regular parking hours are from 8am to 10pm, Saturday to Thursday. Parking remains free on Fridays, except in the continuous-payment zones.

At the Hanging Gardens, the parking fee is Dh10 per hour. Visitors are advised to carefully check the signage to determine whether the fee is waived during the public holidays.