Shees Rest Area

Shees Rest Area provides an ideal stop either on the way to Wadi Shees or after a longer journey through the mountains. Surrounded by the natural landscape of the Hajar Mountains, it offers a combination of comfort, accessibility, and local character.

The site includes a variety of retail and service offerings, such as:

1. street food kiosks

2. cafés and light dining options

3. a local fruit and vegetable market

4. camping supplies and outdoor equipment

5. plant nurseries

These elements create a space that serves both visitors and residents, while reflecting the everyday lifestyle of the area.

The rest area includes a range of well-planned facilities designed to enhance the visitor experience:

1. a 430-square-metre shaded outdoor theatre

2. seating capacity for 80 people

3. a projection screen measuring 24 square metres

4. a children’s play area covering 600 square metres

5. a total of 210 parking spaces, including 6 designated spaces for people with disabilities

To further improve accessibility and capacity, the site also includes two bus stops. In addition, the rest area is supported by key service infrastructure, including a mosque accommodating approximately 300 worshippers, and a petrol station serving visitors and road users.

These facilities strengthen the role of the rest area as a fully serviced stop within the region.

Shees Rest Area is part of a broader vision led by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi to support a sustainable lifestyle for residents of the area.

As part of this initiative, ownership of the retail units has been transferred to residents of Shees and Al Nahwa, enabling them to operate businesses directly. Many of these vendors offer products grown on their own farms, including fresh produce, creating a direct connection between local agriculture and visitors.

This approach supports local livelihoods while reinforcing the social and economic fabric of the community.