Commissioned by Sharjah’s Environmental Protected Areas Authority (EPAA), the Kalba Mangrove Reserve is situated on one of the most sensitive and biodiverse areas in the Gulf, and serves as an operational base for the research and the monitoring of protected natural resources.Education and visitor facilities are designed to increase environmental awareness and support engagement with conservation programmes. A carefully set out nature trail encourages visitors to explore the reserve’s rich biodiversity of indigenous mangrove forests and mud flats and the species it supports including turtles, stingrays, gazelles and the rare Arabian Collard Kingfisher.Seven interconnected pods and tensile structures form the centre, comprising aquaria, exhibition areas, offices, veterinary facilities and classrooms, along with a visitor centre, café. and terrace offering panoramic views towards the mangrove forests and distant mountains.