Planning a trip to the Emirates? Don’t miss out on Fujairah! This perfect Fujairah itinerary is just for you. Embark on an hour-and-a-half drive through stunning mountains and dunes to experience two exotic and timeless days. Here are the must-see spots selected especially for you.
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TO TAKE IN SOME CULTURE
- Sheikh Zayed Mosque:
The second largest mosque in the Emirates after Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is located in the heart of the city of Fujairah (in the emirate of the same name). It is not open to non-Muslims, but the exterior architecture is worth a visit.
- Al Badiyah Mosque:
A little further north, about a thirty-minute drive away, the Al Badiyah Mosque is the oldest in the Emirates. According to researchers, it was built in 1446. Atypical, the tiny 7m2 prayer room is topped with 4 small domes.
It can be visited (appropriate dress required), along with the Portuguese watchtower located at the top of the rocky promontory.
- Fujairah Fort and Museum
A historical vestige of the city, the old fort of Fujairah is today one of the most important fortifications in the United Arab Emirates. The fort is located at the entrance to the landscaped garden that houses the museum. The latter offers you in particular a reconstruction of the traditional way of life in the Emirates.
TO SPEND TIME WITH FAMILY
• Picnic at Khor Fakkan beach
Take a picnic with you and settle down in the heart of this meeting place for the local population, who meet every weekend to have lunch on the grass along the cornice.
On the beach of Khor Fakkan , you will also have the opportunity to try parasailing or rent jet skis. For children, swings and bicycles for rent are available.
• Diving at Snoopy Island:
If scuba diving scares you, Snoopy Island offers you an equally enjoyable snorkeling alternative to discover the marine fauna with your family with your mask and snorkel.
From there, you can peacefully observe a multitude of fish, as well as with a bit of luck, harmless sharks and turtles…
You can go there by staying at the Sandy Beach Resort or simply by taking a daily ticket from this same beach. Note that the more adventurous can pitch their tent on the public beach and watch the first rays of dawn to the sound of the waves…
• Zebu fight
If you are looking for a bit of folklore, every Friday evening, from 4-5 pm (except in summer), there are (non-violent) zebu fights near the beaches of the Corniche going towards Kalba.
This traditional “sport” of “bull butting” (the animals confront each other head to head and must push each other out of the arena) takes place in an authentic and lively atmosphere.
TO BREATHE THE FRESH AIR
• Walk in the wadis
The wadis (a type of valley or in some cases, a dry stream bed) are all located in the heart of the Hajar Mountains, the rocky mountain range that you will see from all sides in Fujairah.
- If you are around Khor Fakkan, we recommend Wadi Shees : the road will take you through an enclave of Oman (no formalities are necessary), and the path in the mountains is easily accessible (although it is preferable to have a 4×4).
- Find out if you want to go to Wadi Al Wurayah (one of the most popular because it is a beautiful walk with a nice pool of water): the latter, declared a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO, is, according to the latest news, closed to the public to protect its ecosystem, which visitors have heavily damaged temporarily.
- If you prefer to be accompanied by an experienced guide, the Absolute Adventure website offers all kinds of supervised outings (trekking, canyoning, rock climbing, camping, etc.).
👉 Check out our article: Our selection of hikes and treks in the Emirates.
- Al Hayl Castle
10 km from the center of Fujairah city, take the road (ideally in a 4×4) to visit this fort which is said to have been built in 1830. Located deep in its eponymous wadi, in the heart of the mountains, far from civilization, it is a historic site worth the detour.
- Al Rafisah Dam
A perfect spot for a road trip destination and a fun day out. Al Rafisah Dam appears out of the mountains on the road to Khorfakkan, over the crest of a hill. It is a picturesque site, offering beautiful views as well as opportunities for a range of activities, from kayaking to hiking to learning about the history and archaeological terrain of the area. A man-made waterfall and lush greenery ensure a tranquil outdoor experience while hiking trails lead you around the lake. Families with young children will enjoy the playgrounds and family facilities. Those looking to relax will find a restaurant with panoramic views and seating areas dotted around the dam.
- Bithnah Village
If you’re heading out to explore the Hajar Mountains, be sure to stop at Bithnah. This small village in Wadi Ham, just 13 kilometers west of the city of Fujairah, was for centuries a strategic stop on the trade routes between the west and east coasts. The main tourist attraction here is the Bithnah Fort, built in 1735, which is considered vital to the defense of this part of the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula.
TO RELAX
If you are more of a “staycation” type, the many resorts located in the north of the emirate will allow you to take a truly relaxing break. Here are a few best:
- The Radisson Blu Resort – The 5-star establishment offers a private beach, spa, kids’ club, various water activities, as well as a professional diving center.
- Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort – The ideal starting point for your excursion to Snoopy Island. Otherwise, here again, the resort stands out for its diving center, accessible for all levels, from beginner to advanced.
- Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort – Located in the far north of the emirate, almost on the border of Ras Al Khaimah, the hotel also offers many water activities, a diving center, as well as a floating water park (Aqua Bounce), and many hiking trails nearby.
TO EAT WELL OR GO OUT IN THE EVENING
- Sapore , at Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort – Italian cuisine, special mention for their risotto.
- Bahari Beach Bar , for a drink and Lebanese food by the water.
- The Book Store – a hidden gem is coming to the Emirates! This bar-restaurant, accessible from the Novotel “bookstore”, reproduces the “prohibition” atmosphere and immerses you in the heart of the 1920s. Time travel guaranteed.
- Mc Gettigan’s , Irish pub at the Tennis & Country Club, for their Friday brunch, a family meal, or simply a cocktail.
Read more here: 12 Best Restaurants In Fujairah
HOW TO GET THERE?
- Dubai – Fujairah: 1h30 – 2hrs depending on the exact destination and departure time (avoid going through Sharjah on Thursdays at the end of the day: traffic can be very heavy.)
- On the road to Masafi, make a short stop at the Friday Market (open every day) or Souq al Juma as it is called locally, and haggle over carpets, earthenware, antiques, and other souvenirs.
