Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed visits the Cloud Lounge in Khor Fakkan

Al Suhub attraction is 600 metres above sea level

Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed visited Sharjah’s newest attraction on Tuesday – a mountaintop “cloud lounge” in Khor Fakkan.

The Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces toured Al Suhub Rest Area, and praised the efforts of Sheikh Sultan Al Qassimi to boost tourism in the emirate.

Almost 600 metres above sea level, the observation point offers panoramic views of the UAE’s east coast and the Gulf of Oman.

“We commend the efforts of Sheikh Sultan Al Qasimi for continuously identifying projects that boost tourism and benefit our country and our people,” said Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed on Twitter.

Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, opened the venue last month, and at least 50,000 people visited the attraction over Eid Al Adha, state news agency Wam reported.

Last year, the UAE launched a campaign to encourage residents to holiday at home and enjoy the attractions of the Emirates.

The World's Coolest Winter was announced by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai, and it invited people to explore the hidden gems of the seven emirates.

The strategy aimed to double the annual Dh41.2 billion ($11.2bn) spent on domestic tourism by 2030, and encourage staycations.

Several tourist attractions have recently opened in Khor Fakkan, including an amphitheatre and huge waterfall, which opened on the Corniche last December.

Trails are also being constructed to encourage hiking, including one three-kilometre mountain path leading to the recently redeveloped Rafisah Dam.