Dubai: Away from overcrowded shopping centres and the hustle and bustle of the city, families are still able to enjoy the simple pleasures of nature at one of the oldest parks in Sharjah, Al Jazeera Park.
When this, the largest park in Sharjah, was opened almost three decades ago, it quickly became one of the city's new landmarks. Many children have fond memories of spending their growing-up years in the park.
"I remember playing with my older siblings in the park when I was much younger, and most of my childhood memories come from there, because that was where I used to spend every weekend.
"The best ride was the water ride where you would sit in a log and speed down into a pool with a big splash and get all wet," said 28-year-old Maysa.
The park was opened to the public on October 21, 1979, which was also the first day of Eid Al Adha. The park covers more than 100,000 square metres and is built on an island in Khalid Lagoon, which continues to remain one of the most popular tourist spots in the city, as it is located opposite the Blue Souq, near the Al Khan area.
Artificial waterfall
On a visit to the park one can immediately understand why it continues to remain popular with families, as you pass toddlers looking in amazement at the artificial waterfall towering above them, and hear the excited cheers of school children riding on a mini-train.
The park has upgraded its facilities over the years but retained old favourites that have proven to be a hit among residents over the years. This include a children's amusement park, a mini zoo, a swimming pool, the artificial waterfall and train rides.
"I enjoy the friendly atmosphere here, and the children love it. This is the place where I like to unwind and read a book while my two children run around and play games. I try to bring them here as often as I can because it is a better alternative than playing video games in shopping centres," said Anita N.
The entry fee is Dh5 for adults and Dh2 for children. Tuesdays are restricted to ladies. Opening hours are from Saturday to Thursday 3.30pm to 10pm and on Friday from 9.30am to 10.30 pm. It is closed on Sundays.
The park has various fun rides for people of all age groups, including one called "Enterprise", which is like a space ship, and the astro-jet that takes riders on a "space tour".
There are cars, boats, and a train that take visitors for a tour around the park. The park has a number of facilities, such as cafeterias offering fast food and snacks, kiosks where one can buy toys or souvenirs, a swimming pool, green walking tracks and a mosque.
In accordance with regulations in Sharjah, visitors are prohibited from smoking sheesha. Officials at the Parks Section in Sharjah Municipality said cutting flowers is prohibited, as is having a barbeque, cycling or playing cricket on the grass.
According to officials, school groups are given special priority and are allowed to enter the park free of charge but pupils have to pay for games and rides while in the park. People with special needs enter free.
