image
SharjahAttractions

by Alexandra Mansilla

Mysterious Pods In the Middle Of Nowhere In Sharjah: What Are They?

30 Aug 2024

In Sharjah, there are two fascinating spots featuring buildings made up of interlinked pods: one white and the other copper-coloured. These structures look almost extraterrestrial, immediately drawing attention.
What exactly are they?
Both complexes were designed by Hopkins Architects. The white one is the Khor Kalba Turtle and Wildlife Sanctuary. This site consists of seven interconnected pods and tensile structures, forming a central hub that houses aquariums, exhibition spaces, offices, veterinary facilities, classrooms, a visitor centre, and a café.
image

Source: www.hopkins.co.uk

This sanctuary is dedicated to the rehabilitation and care of endangered wildlife in the area. It also serves as an educational hub, raising ecological awareness among visitors while offering scientists a place to conduct vital research and monitor the natural resources of the Kalba Reserve.
image
Now, about the architecture: Why are the buildings shaped this way? According to the Hopkins Architects website, the pods’ design takes inspiration from urchin exoskeletons.
The second complex (the copper-coloured one) is the Buhais Geological Park, located 50 kilometres from Sharjah. It consists of five interlinked pods set against the rocky Jebel Buhais mountain range, with a design inspired by the fossilised urchins found on site — similar to the approach used in the Khor Kalba Turtle and Wildlife Sanctuary. This site is of immense geological significance, containing fossils that are over 65 million years old.
image

Source: www.hopkins.co.uk

This location holds immense significance because, 93 million years ago, something extraordinary occurred here. Unlike the usual process where the oceanic plate slides beneath the continental shelf, the opposite happened: the oceanic plate was forced over the continental shelf. This rare geological phenomenon caused ancient layers of the Earth to rise, forming mountain ridges. Over time, erosion exposed these layers, offering a rare glimpse into nearly 100 million years of Earth's history.
image

Source: www.hopkins.co.uk

Inside, you will find exhibition areas that delve into the site's history, an immersive theatre, a café with panoramic views, a gift shop, and other visitor amenities.
Also, you can watch a film about how ancient volcanoes emerged from the ocean depths to form these mountains millions of years ago. The film covers the entire process, from the formation of the mountains 240 million years ago to the present day. It is shown on a large semicircular screen, with animations, on-site footage, and a spectacular finale where the film screen opens to reveal the actual geological site. The experience is enhanced by a specially composed soundtrack that perfectly sets the mood.

More from 

image
SharjahEnvironment

How Sharjah Is Quietly Rewriting the Rules Of Urban Life

New district Aljada isn’t just reshaping Sharjah — it is redefining what a city can be

by Sofia Brontvein

1 Jul 2025

image
SharjahArt

A Day At Sharjah Biennial 16: The Ultimate Art Lover’s Guide

Enjoy 16th edition of Sharjah Biennial until June 15, 2025

by Sophie She

4 Apr 2025

image
ArtSharjah

Redefining Women’s Work: New Exhibition at BEEAH HQ

Exhibition by Barjeel Art Foundation under the curation of Nour Hage is running from November 9, 2024, to January 16, 2025

by Sophie She

14 Nov 2024

image
SharjahArt

Ink and Soul: The Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial

Explore the key themes and objectives of the biggest calligraphy event in the Middle East

by Barbara Yakimchuk

6 Nov 2024

image
AttractionsSharjah

Perfect Weekend Getaway: Travel To Ghost Town In Sharjah

It is just a 40-minute drive from Dubai, almost entirely swallowed by the sand

by Barbara Yakimchuk

10 Oct 2024

image
TravelSharjah

Sharjah In 24 Hours: A Quick Guide To the Best Attractions

Sharjah's one day journey through culture, history and nature

by Iffat Nawaz

16 Aug 2024

Subscribe to our newsletter
Email*
© 2024 The Sandy Times
All rights reserved

Category

The Sandy Times

About us

Our team

Contact us

Work with us

Terms & ConditionsPrivacy Policy

Lifestyle urban media — united by creativity, elevating community. We bring together diverse voices to showcase the richness of MENA's urban culture. We believe compelling storytelling can inspire, unite, and create positive change