Hidden between the Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman is the charming emirate of Fujairah, the only Emirate on the UAE’s East Coast. A roughly 90-minute drive from Dubai will bring you to this calm oasis away from the buzzing heart of the city. Fujairah’s relaxed atmosphere, along with quiet beaches and rugged mountains, is perfect for a change of scenery for nature enthusiasts and those looking to plan the perfect weekend getaway. Listed below are the top things to do in Fujairah.
8 Of the Best Things to Do in Fujairah
Go Back in Time at the Fujairah Fort
The Fujairah Fort is a stark reminder of how far the UAE has come from its humble beginnings. Constructed in the 16th century, the Fujairah Fort is one of the oldest remaining forts in the country. The fort had played a significant role in fighting back the waves of colonialism and was initially occupied by the Wahhabists. It is located on a small rocky hill and the compound features several old houses, and a mosque, guarded by 3 circular watchtowers and 1 rectangular watchtower. Inside you will find multiple exhibits and interesting artefacts, such as the weapons and tools used by local farmers and soldiers during that period. The top of the highest watchtower is 20 metres above sea level and reveals panoramic views of the city, best enjoyed at sunset.
Dive with Turtles at Dibba Rock
Colourful corals, plus a large population of green turtles, clownfish and the occasional black-tipped reef shark make Dibba Rock one of UAE’s most beautiful diving sites. The small rocky island offers dives of up to 30 metres, and when you reach the seabed, the sights are absolutely breathtaking. A small shipwreck lies below, and divers can watch colourful fishes and stingrays swim around it. At low tide, stay on the sea-facing side of Dibba Rock for snorkelling; at high tide, explore the shoreside to spot turtles. Dibba Rock is also ideal for night diving, featuring swaying corals with their polyps out to feed. You may even encounter sleeping turtles.
Hike through the Wadi’s of the Hajjar Mountains
Fujairah is a mountainous emirate that features hiking trails that offer a challenging trek for different experience levels. An early morning hike through the stunning Hajjar Mountains will take you through beautiful pools with colours that reflect the surrounding landscape, unique rock formations, and dry riverbeds. Depending on the routes you take, you may venture through different wadis and even come across traces of historical settlements dating back to the bronze age. The Hajjar mountains are best enjoyed early in the morning, as the temperatures are cooler and the sight of the early sky turning blue as you reach the top is mesmerising.
Experience Thrilling Activities and Glamping at Fujairah Adventure Park
Nestled within the mountains towards the outskirts of the city, Fujairah Adventure Park is the ultimate playground for adrenaline junkies. The massive park offers numerous activities such as wall-climbing, archery, bag jumps, and 3 different biking trails. The space has a massive asphalt skate park, a mountain bike trail, and a specially designed place for dirt jumps. They also offer a select number of glamping spaces, comprising rustic wooden cabins on stilts that overlook the shimmering waters of the dam.
Visit the Oldest Mosque in the Country
The Bidya Mosque is the oldest functioning mosque in the UAE. A 40-minute drive from Fujairah's city centre in the quiet village of Bidiya will bring you to this UNESCO World Heritage site. The mud and stone structure contains no wood, making it impossible to carbonate and learn the exact date of its construction. However, it is believed to have been made in the 15th century or earlier. The mosque is unique as it has 4 domes that are not of equal size. Inside the mosque is square but irregular in shape. Its walls are decorated with dentate carvings, with openings allowing light and air to enter. There are several archaeological sites close to the mosque including four watchtowers, stone wall remnants of old buildings, petroglyphs, and stones with intricate carvings.
Snorkel at Snoopy Island
Floating off the coast of Al Aqah is a small rocky island that is one of Fujairah’s well-kept secrets waiting to be explored. The name Snoopy Island comes from the distinctive shape of the three sections of rocks that resemble the shape of the cartoon dog Snoopy sleeping on top of his doghouse. Expert swimmers can swim from the coast to the island, but this can only be done during low tide and calm waters. Others can charter a boat from the coast to the island where visitors can snorkel in the clear blue water that surrounds it. Expert diving guides will take visitors underwater where they can swim with the vibrant sea life, turtles and human-friendly sharks. There are also other water activities like kayaking and paddleboarding.
Go on a Picnic at Umbrella Beach
Umbrella Beach has been the go-to spot for picnics in Fujairah for over 20 years. In 2021 the beach got a complete revamp and has now developed into an energetic seafront complex with restaurants, coffee shops and food trucks. The beach now features landscaped green spaces, dedicated walking and jogging tracks, padel courts, children's play areas, quirky art installations and paintings. The Rumailah Farms is a standout, offering refreshing ice-creams and coffees made from milk from a popular dairy farm in Fujairah. There are several dining options from fast food options like Buns and CHIKI to luxurious dining venues and artisanal eateries like Mara Lounge and Steki. The chic spot is best enjoyed during cooler weather or during sunset as the lights turn on and illuminate the beach turning it into an energetic spot.
Tour the Second Largest Mosque in the UAE
At the heart of Fujairah is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the second largest mosque in the UAE and a landmark that is visible from many locations in the city. The mosque has a capacity of 28,000 worshippers and is the main mosque of Fujairah. The design of the mosque resembles the Sultan Ahmed Mosque in Istanbul also known as the Blue Mosque. There are elements from Arabic and Ottoman architecture along with modern Islamic design. Visitors can embark on a guided tour of the mosque which runs every day of the week except on Fridays.
Final Take
Fujairah is the perfect getaway destination from Dubai if you are looking to slow down, pause, take a moment, and reset. The laidback atmosphere of the emirate, along with the scenic landscapes and activities that bring you closer to nature, will make you look at life from a different perspective. Next time you are tired of the usual weekend spots, take a trip to Fujairah and try out one of these fun activities.
