16 minute read

Places to visit in Fujairah

October 14, 2021

In the only emirate of the country with access to the coast of the Arabian Sea, there is neither oil nor gas. There are no crowds of people hung with cameras, and you can count on one hand the skyscrapers that line the whole of Dubai. But in Fujairah there is really beautiful nature, combining mountain landscapes, and green oases, and dimensionless beaches, which would fit the entire population of the UAE. On the beaches and coves of Fujairah, turtles can often be seen laying eggs in the sand. It is not recommended to touch animals and dig their nests. Turtles, like all other representatives of wildlife, are strictly protected by the law of the Ruler of the Emirate. Places to visit in Fujairah.

Fujairah is extremely popular with diving enthusiasts. An interesting landscape of the seabed, coral reefs, many islands (for example, the island of Snoppy, which is similar in shape to the hero of children’s comics), and diverse flora, like a magnet, attract both professionals and experienced divers here. The waters here are home to lobsters, octopuses, bright red bass, parrotfish, reef sharks, and barracudas. By the way, you can not only look at them but also fish (for this you need to book an excursion at the Marine Club).

Connoisseurs of African landscapes should definitely drive through the impressive passes of the Hajar Mountains, encountering gazelles on the way and stopping into the protected areas of Fujairah – the Al-Wuraya waterfalls, the hot springs of Ain al-Gamur, and the gardens of Ain al-Madhab. The “excursion” for a snack is the walls of the medieval fort, open to the public, and the Ottoman Mosque (the oldest in the Emirates), which attracts pilgrims from all over the country.

Al Bidya Mosque

The oldest mosque in the country, Al Bidiya, is shrouded in mystery. Firstly, no one knows how many years this building hit. According to some reports, it appeared thousands of years before the arrival of Islam in the UAE. It is also unclear why the mosque is called Ottoman: historians are sure that it has nothing to do with the Ottoman Empire.

The entrance to the mosque is through double-leaf wooden doors. In the prayer hall, there is a mihrab (a niche in the wall, indicating the direction to Mecca). The central pillar divides the interior space into equal squares and supports all four domes.

by the way, For those who do not like crowds and hate organized excursions, a trip to the Ottoman Mosque can be a challenge. Today it is the main attraction of the Fujairah emirate. Several million pilgrims and tourists visit it every year.

Fujairah Fort

Fujairah Fort is a 15th century stone fortress with massive walls, towers, and narrow loopholes. The fort has undergone many reconstructions, and in 1991 a museum with a large collection of archaeological finds was opened in it. Not far from the fortress, right in the open air, there is another museum – ethnographic: in it you can see a whole village of old clay huts, built by the Arabs several hundred years ago.

Madhab Sulpheric Spring Park (Fujairah)

The national park with mineral springs and green groves is located in a very picturesque place – at the foot of the mountains in the Al Ain Valley. It is believed that by plunging into the local water (two swimming pools are built for visitors – a male and a female), one can heal from many diseases. For those who come to Madhab Gardens in earnest and for a long time, there are several small hotels. If you get bored of walking in the parks (which, however, are quite extensive), you should head for the ruins of a local fortress, or a market where ceramics are sold.

Fujairah International Marine Club

The Maritime Club regularly hosts water sports competitions, including windsurfing and yacht racing, in which even mere mortals can participate. However, they often come here for other things – for example, for a guide who can organize gambling fishing. Tuna, barracuda, and sea bass are common in local waters. The caught fish can be fried right on the boat, but if you are not lucky with the catch (which is extremely rare), there is a chance that next time fishing will be free.

The club has an American bar and restaurant with live music in the evenings.

Bullring, Fujairah

Every Friday (except summer months) from 4 pm to 7 pm in Fujairah, on the waterfront along the road leading towards Kalba, bullfights are held. A crowd of people gathers to watch it. During the fight, the bulls grapple with their horns and butt for 5-8 minutes. Bloodshed is usually not tolerated. The winner – that is, the bull who did not retreat – is determined by the judge.

After the end of the battle, spectators are invited to the arena who wish to take part in pulling the bulls away. After that, a new pair of opponents is brought to the site – and so on until the “champion of the week” is determined. In the final, he will face off against the winner of last Friday.

Divers Down UAE – Experience thrill of Diving

The East Coast of the UAE is the perfect “study guide” for divers. There are many islets, reefs, and wrecks here. In the labyrinths of colorful corals, schools of tropical fish prowl. Naturally, the local coastline is full of diving schools and small companies offering professional diving services.

One of the most advanced and well-known schools is called Divers Down: here they teach to dive both day and night and at rocks, and at ships resting at the bottom. They will teach you about underwater photography – just pay. The cost of one dive is $ 60, the course (depending on the difficulty) is from $ 400. There are special courses for children from 8 years old. Test dives are held in the swimming pool of The Oceanic Hotel

Martini Rock Diving Expedition

The underwater rock Martini, which is located near the port of Khor Fakkan, is almost completely covered with colorful soft corals. This is a good dive site for experienced divers. Moray eels, cuttlefish, parrotfish, scorpionfish, and even the rare lionfish live in small depressions and nooks. Green turtles appear here regularly. On the five-meter top of the reef rising out of the water, you can relax after diving.

Shark Island

From afar, the island looks like a shark fin – hence its name. Stingrays and lobsters live under the water, near the steep cliffs. Flocks of bright exotic fish fly by. Shark Island is considered to be the most spectacular place for night diving.

by the way, North of the port of Khor Fakkan there is another interesting diving site – the Car Graveyard created 20 years ago from submerged cars. Now seahorses, moray eels, reef sharks, barracudas, rays, frogfish, and other marine life live there.

Musandam Peninsula

The Musandam Peninsula is a piece of Oman, separated from the rest of the country by the territories of the United Arab Emirates. It is considered one of the most beautiful places in the Middle East. In some places, the local landscapes – because of the water-filled intermontane depressions – resemble Norwegian fjords. In addition, Musandam is known for its excellent diving sites. Off the coast of the northern part of the peninsula (depth from 12 to 27 meters), there is a huge amount of soft corals. Lobsters and moray eels hide in small caves.

The eastern part of the peninsula is well protected from low tides. Barracudas and wrasses are found at 50 meters depth. Sometimes you can see rays sleeping on the sand and even zebra sharks. At Cape Lima, in many caves formed by huge boulders, corals grow and a large number of exotic fish are found. Dolphins and reef sharks regularly appear here. An Oman visa is required to travel to the peninsula.

Snoopy Island (Fujairah)

The tiny islet off the coast of Fujairah is similar in shape – when viewed from a certain angle – to the dog Snoppy, the hero of children’s comics. The island is extremely popular among novice divers: it is shallow (from 3 to 7 meters), underwater rocks are covered with various types of coral, stingrays, reef sharks, and turtles are regularly seen. You can get to Snoppy Island if you contact one of the local diving centers.

Ain Al Ghamour Hot Springs

Someone comes here for medical purposes, someone just for a picnic. The water of the spring, located in a picturesque rocky valley, is rich in healing sulfuric and mineral compounds. Simply put, a hot mineral fountain gushes out of the ground!

How he appeared is hard to say. According to one of the versions – after the eruption of an ancient volcano. The water temperature here is 55-60 degrees. When you approach the source, the smell of sulfur will hit your nose, so you shouldn’t be near the healing waters for a long time. You can take a dip and then go gawking at the impressive scenery.

Al Bithnah Fort

The Bithna Fort is a historic building located just outside the city of Fujairah, overlooking all the strategic routes crossing the Hajar Mountains through Wadi Ham. Built-in 1735, the Bithna Fort is located on the main highway, 13 km from the city of Fujairah. The Bithna Fort is also said to be the site of a 2nd millennium BC megalithic T-shaped tomb that was re-used during the 1st millennium BC.

It once played an important role in the defense of the eastern region of the United Arab Emirates. The fort was originally built with stones, mortar, plaster resulting in a square-shaped structure, and is decorated with two watchtowers on the west side. Once you reach the fort, it offers a perfect view of the surrounding area. The actual origin of the fort is unclear which adds to the mystery of the place and thus attracts a large number of tourists. It is also easily accessible as the road signs are clearly marked.

Kalba Corniche Park

The park is recognized as an ideal picnic and barbecue spot among tourists and many families. The park also has an open playground for children and access to the beach, but it is not ideal for swimming. The clean and well-maintained park also offers public restrooms and readily available parking space. Nearby, accessible grocery stores, cafeterias, and restaurants can be found.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Fujairah

Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Fujairah is the second largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates after Abu Dhabi. Although not open for non-prayer visits, the mosque can only be viewed from outside. adorned with six hundred meters high minarets and sixty-four domes; This granite and marble religious structure can comfortably seat 28000 worshippers. In short, the structure is spread over 39000 square meters, which is equivalent to three football pitches.

Its architectural style is in close association with the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul with its elegant incorporation of Ottoman, Arabic, and modern architectural styles. The mosque is not open to non-Muslim visitors, but a view from the outside on this imposing structure justifies a visit to the place. This grand and majestic structure on the skyline of Fujairah took 200 million AED and just seven hundred days to complete. This iconic mosque was named in honor of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder of the United Arab Emirates.

Al Hayl Castle (Fujairah)

Al-Hail Castle is an ancient structure that was built around 250 years ago as the residence of the ruling family of Fujairah and has been instrumental in defending the area through regular patrols and surveillance.

Established in the year 1830, Al-Hayl Castle is one of the famous structures in Fujairah, located at the foot of Hajar Mountain and close to the village of Al Hail. Nestled amidst a panoramic view of dates and mountains, this place is a paradise for photographers. Although not very large in size, its wind towers offer a splendid view of the surrounding area.

Fujairah Museum

Located to the south of the Fujairah Fort, the Fujairah Museum houses a unique collection of archaeological finds showcasing the history and heritage of the United Arab Emirates. The museum displays the recent excavations of the Kidfa and Bithna sites. Exhibits relating to the early Bronze Age (about 4500 years ago) are on display in the museum.

Friday Market (Fujairah)

Experience the spirit of a traditional Arabic souq (market) at Fujairah’s Friday Bazaar. With an open market setting set amidst mountains and valleys, the iconic Friday Market attracts visitors from all over the region. It also helps in attracting tourists to the city of Masafi. It has been able to maintain the atmosphere and aura of an ancient souk.

Nestled amidst the Thousand Mountains, the market is famous for a variety of goods sold ranging from vegetables, fruits, and plants to toys, rugs, and utensils. The Friday Market or Souk Al Juma is particularly known for its fresh and locally grown produce, as is the unique climate of Massafi with unusually high rainfall. It is also recognized as an important symbol of the culture and heritage of the region. Although the market is called Friday Market, it is open daily, not just on Fridays and public holidays.

Masafi, Fujairah

The smuggling Masafi village, bordering the Hajar Mountains near Fujairah, served as a trading post and refueling stop before the construction of highways in the 1970s. Situated on the border of the two emirates, the larger part belongs to Fujairah while the smaller part falls within the Emirate of Ras al-Khaimah. Masafi Village is famous in UAE for its natural springs, whose name Masafi means ‘pure water’ in Arabic. In addition, the village is the bay’s top natural mineral water producer.

Lulu Mall Fujairah

Located in the heart of Fujairah, Lulu Mall provides easy access to quality international brands that all shoppers need and desire. It also offers great food and fast food options like McDonald’s, Papa John’s, Bombay Chowpatty, etc. The mall is also home to top recreational facilities, including an ice-skating rink, bowling alley, rollercoasters, video games, and more!

Fujairah Corniche

The Corniche Road stretching from Kalba to Khor Fakkan is a very popular tourist destination in Fujairah. The road is surrounded by mountains on one side and calm, blue water on the other, which is a sight to behold. The road is popular for its parks, beaches, playgrounds, and restaurants at every turn.

Fujairah – Century Mall

Recognized as Fujairah’s first shopping mall, Century Mall is home to several retail stores, cinemas, restaurants, coffee shops, supermarkets, and an entertainment area. Considered to be a less crowded mall, it is ideal for those who do not enjoy large crowds and still do not want to compromise on their shopping experience.

Fujairah Tower Mall

Located in the heart of Fujairah city, Fujairah Tower Mall is one such mall that offers its shoppers a wide variety of retail outlets to shop and dine in several restaurants and coffee shops. The mall can be found within the Fujairah Tower complex, a notable feature in the city skyline. The 46-story Fujairah Tower is a commercial, residential and retail space located in the heart of the city.

Scuba Diving in Fujairah

Fujairah is home to some of the best diving and snorkeling spots in the UAE. Fujairah has a wide presence of marine life, the water has good clarity and good currents which make it an easy drive for those who have almost no prior diving experience. There are 11 diving spots available in Fujairah including night dives.

Scuba & Snorkelling in Fujairah

Fujairah, which is one of the emirates, is located on the east coast of the United Arab Emirates and is known as an ideal place for snorkeling. The snorkeling centers in Fujairah offer one of the best experiences in the country and are attracting a good group of adventure enthusiasts to date. With around three to four snorkeling spots, Fujairah has never disappointed its visitors. It is not just an experience but also a way to encounter the marine life that co-exists with the people.

Snorkeling centers in Fujairah provide the necessary equipment like snorkel sets, fins, masks, waterproof watches, rash guards, and much more to make your experience worth the money and time. Know that some of them also provide food and drink in their snorkeling packages.

More About Fujairah Emirate

Quiet and serene, Fujairah Emirate is a picturesque beach town away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. A busy city with commercial skyscrapers and beautiful mountains and beaches, it is known as a peaceful retreat for locals and travelers alike.

Primarily a business center and the commercial center of the United Arab Emirates, the city is a center of attraction with its natural raw beauty. It stands apart from the rest of the United Arab Emirates due to the towering Thousand Mountains and offers a fascinating landscape and a simple lifestyle. Continuing with its rich cultural heritage, the city is a fascinating combination of a 70 km long sandy coastline and high mountain ranges.

The emirate’s sunny beaches support a range of marine activities, including sailing, sailing, water surfing, sailing, deep-sea fishing, and swimming, almost throughout the year. Fujairah hosts the annual Powerboat Racing Championship.

Currency in Fujairah

Most major credit cards in Fujairah are widely accepted through systems such as Cirrus and Plus. One can easily use his card at major departmental or shopping stores, hotels, restaurants, and car rental companies. However, cash is widely used for general shopping and eating out at outdoor souks and small outlets.

Money exchange in Fujairah

Almost all types of foreign currency of any denomination can be exchanged in Fujairah. One can get the currency exchanged at any bank or any authorized currency exchange office in the city. The exchange rate may vary between banks and other centers. ATM machines are easily available at various places in the city.

Top currency exchange bureaus in Fujairah:

Al Ansari Exchange, Hamad bin Abdullah Road
UAE Exchange, Next to Carrefour

Religion of Fujairah

Islam

Fujairah Customs

Traditional Attire

Arabs are very particular about their dress code, which is followed almost uniformly in the United Arab Emirates. Men usually wear the dishdasha or kandura, a white full-length shirtdress worn with a white or red checked headdress, known as a ghutrah. At one end, a black rope is used to secure the ghutrah. For women, there is the black abaya, a loose long garment to cover their normal clothing, as well as a headscarf known as a Sheyla. Some women also cover their faces with a thin black veil.

How Tourists Should Respect Fujairah Customs

As a tourist, one is expected to respect the general culture and manners. Foreigners are free to practice their religion and dress liberally as long as it is modest and does not reveal too much skin. Public displays of affection are not accepted anywhere in the United Arab Emirates, although the presence of people from different ethnic groups has to be acknowledged with other social customs, such as a man and a woman holding hands. However, it is advisable to avoid any such practice just to be cautious. Sightseeing photography is allowed but be polite to ask permission to take pictures of locals. Tipping is also widely practiced in Fujairah but is by no means compulsory.

Language of Fujairah

Arabic is the main language of Fujairah, however, some Arabic schools have started teaching English as a second language, as it is a major business language. With the influx of people from other ethnic groups and religions, some will find people conversing in their native languages. Some Arabic words that may be useful are:

Hi: Salam
Good Morning: Sabah el kheer
Welcome: Marhaba
Thank you: shukran
Good night: Tosbeho ala khair
Goodbye: Ma salama

History of Fujairah

Fujairah once served as a home for migrants from the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula, later called the Phoenicians. In addition, Yemeni migrants called Fujairah their home after the collapse of the Mareb Dam, and thus became the descendants of the Sharqis tribe in the region. Fujairah was known as the ‘Land of the Sea Giants’ in the early ages, with some of the major excavations done in this area. In fact, some discovered objects indicate the presence of man in the Fujairah region going back as far back as the Iron Age.

Nightlife in Fujairah

There are many nightclubs and bars in Fujairah that are open all night and offer a variety of drinks along with catchy music. Most of them serve both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Here is a list of the best places for nightlife in Fujairah:

McGettigan’s Fujairah
Ratsky
Manila Beats
Joe’s Sports Bar
Irish Sports Corner
Tropicana bar
Zorba Lounge
Astro Rooftop Bar
Fez bar

Shopping in Fujairah

Shopping in Fujairah is packed with unlimited options, from window-shopping to actual shopping at malls and local souks. Fancy boutiques and other international brand stores line the store, along with a wide range of retail outlets. One can buy fashion accessories, footwear, clothing, home appliances, and much more. Here are the best places to shop in Fujairah:

Masafi Market: Tourists can buy handicrafts, antiques, pottery, and souvenirs at a discounted rate provided you hone up your haggling skills.
Safeer Market: It is similar to a traditional Arabian souq selling furniture, special Iranian tea, perfumes, and clothing. Also, if flavored shishas are on your shopping list, the place is full of shops selling all kinds of shishas along with some rarely found hookah all over UAE.
Fujairah City Centre: Buy everything one could need in the comfort of an air-conditioned mall which includes a massive food court, cinemas, and children’s activity areas.

Suggested Itinerary for Fujairah

Day 1: Drive to Fujairah from one of the Emirates, check out one of the many luxurious hotels in the Emirates. Visit Fujairah Fort and Village, Al Bidya Mosque which is the oldest mosque in the United Arab Emirates. Then end the day by visiting Sheikh Zayed Mosque at sunset for the beautiful view of the mosque. Spend the night in the Fujairah Corniche and dine at some of the best eateries around the area.

Day 2: Spend the morning engaging in some exciting water sports at the beach. Go snorkeling, diving, and explore the beautiful wadis of Fujairah.

Who should visit Fujairah?

Families and history buffs.

What is the best time to visit Fujairah?

The best time to visit Fujairah is between the months of October and March where the temperature drops to around 25 degrees Celsius. Although the weather conditions of Fujairah are generally warm and pleasant almost throughout the year. The rest of the year is sunny and the temperature hovers around 40 degrees.

What is the local food in Fujairah?

Fujairah offers delicious Arab food served in various local restaurants, cafes, and pushcart vendors. Apart from its local cuisine, there are many other cuisines to be enjoyed like Italian, Persian, Indian, Lebanese, etc. There are also many famous shisha cafes around the city. Shawarma, Kofta, Falafel, and Kebab are among the favorite local dishes. Along with fast food outlets, there are also KFC, McDonald’s, and more.

Food for Indians in Fujairah

There are many Indian restaurants in Fujairah including pure vegetarian eateries. These restaurants mainly serve North Indian food and South Indian food.

Here’s a list of the 10 best restaurants in Fujairah:

Gonu Bar & Grill (American, Continental)
Sapore (Italian, Gluten-Free, Vegan)
Al Meshwar Restaurant (Arabian, Lebanese, Mediterranean)
Swaad (Indian)
Baywatch (Poolside Bar with Gluten-Free and Vegan Options)
Sensasia (Seafood and Thai)
Taste Thai Restaurant (Thai)
Alnouman (Middle Eastern, Barbeque)
Bahari Beach Bar (Vegetarian-Friendly, Vegan Options)
The Bookstore Fujairah (American Steakhouse)

Vegetarian Restaurants:

Taj Saffron (Indian)
Puranmal’s (Indian)
Chandni (Indian)

What are the things to do in Fujairah?

The top things to do in Fujairah are Fujairah Fort and Fujairah Village, Snoopy Island, Al Bidya Mosque, Bithna Fort, Kalba Corniche Park, Ain Al-Madhab Hot Spring. You can see all the places to visit in Fujairah

What are the places near Fujairah?

The top places near to Fujairah are Sharjah which is 83 km from Fujairah, Ajman which is located 73 km from Fujairah, Ras al Khaimah which is located 51 km from Fujairah, Dubai which is located 100 km from Fujairah, Abu Dhabi which is located 216 km from Fujairah