The Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq) has appointed Minor Hotels to take over the management and operation of the Sharjah Collection. The deal encompasses a unique portfolio of seven nature-focused and heritage-inspired properties located across the United Arab Emirates.

The official signing ceremony took place in Sharjah. The high-profile event was attended by Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq, alongside His Excellency Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq. Representing Minor Hotels were Amir Golbarg, Chief Operating Officer for the Middle East and Africa, and William Heinecke, the Founder and Chairman of Minor International.

Under the new agreement, Minor Hotels will use its international distribution network and commercial capabilities to run the locations. The properties are set to join the group’s upper-upscale and luxury portfolio following a targeted programme of investment and facility upgrades. Despite the management change, the distinctive cultural identities of the individual boutique destinations will be maintained.

The Sharjah Collection includes seven distinct locations spread across the coastal, desert, mountain and historical landscapes of the emirate. The named properties are Al Badayer Retreat, Al Faya Retreat, Kingfisher Retreat, Moon Retreat, Najd Al Meqsar, Al Rayaheen Retreat and Nomad. Each site focuses on delivering immersive guest experiences centered around eco-tourism and regional culture.

The operational change forms a key part of Shurooq’s broader strategy to boost tourism competitiveness in Sharjah. The authority aims to attract new segments of international travelers and establish the emirate as a premier hub for sustainable, experience-driven travel.

All four leadership figures expressed strong optimism during the announcement.

“Sharjah Collection was created from our belief that hospitality can be a powerful expression of place. Our partnership with Minor Hotels marks an important step in expanding the collection’s international reach while preserving the authenticity and values that define it. Together, we look forward to welcoming more visitors to experience Sharjah through its culture, heritage and landscapes.”: H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Shurooq.

“This partnership marks an important step in strengthening the operational performance and international reach of Sharjah Collection. Minor Hotels brings proven hospitality expertise, global systems and international distribution capabilities, allowing us to further enhance the guest experience while continuing to focus on developing destinations that create long-term value for Sharjah’s tourism sector.”: H.E. Ahmed Obaid Al Qaseer, CEO of Shurooq

“Our partnership with Shurooq reflects our confidence in the long-term potential of the UAE and our commitment to growing our presence in exceptional destinations across the Middle East. Sharjah has created a distinctive tourism offering that blends culture, nature and heritage in a highly authentic way, and we are proud to support its continued evolution while introducing these remarkable experiences to more travellers from around the world.”: William Heinecke, Founder and Chairman of Minor International

“Sharjah Collection is unlike any other hospitality portfolio in the region, with each retreat offering a unique connection to its surroundings and local heritage. Building on Shurooq’s vision, we look forward to enhancing the guest experience through our operational expertise, commercial strength and international distribution network, while carefully preserving the individual character that defines each property.”: Amir Golbarg, Chief Operating Officer of Minor Hotels Middle East & Africa