Fujairah is the hidden gem of the UAE, offering natural landscapes, historical sites, and thrilling outdoor activities. Unlike its bustling neighbouring city, Dubai, Fujairah offers more natural wonders like rugged mountains, pristine beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. From adventure seekers to history enthusiasts or even people who wish for a relaxing getaway, this city has plenty for every one. This Fujairah travel guide will help you with the best things to do in Fujairah for an unforgettable experience.
Fujairah is a cradle of history where it has many cultural sites to reveal about its past. One of them is Fujairah Fort, which draws visitors as it is the oldest fort in the UAE as built in the 16th century. It was once a bastion of defense and has now become an interesting dive into history from the perspective of the emirate and quite an alluring view from its ramparts.
Another must-see is Al Badiyah Mosque, reputed to be the oldest mosque in the UAE. Built in the 15th century, this simple yet striking mud-brick structure still serves as a place of worship and stands as a testament to Fujairah's rich heritage. Near it you can explore Heritage Village where there are several traditional Emirati homes, tools, and lifestyle exhibits illustrating the past of such a region. For people eager to research the emirate's history, the Fujairah Museum displays many artifacts going back thousands of years; weapons, pottery, and jewelry from archaeological sites around the whole region.
Fujirah is famous for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, which makes it an ideal destination for relaxation and water sports. Dibba Beach is a popular choice, known for its soft golden sand and breathtaking mountain scenes. Visitors can relax from the edge, enjoy swimming, or indulge in beachside gastronomy experiences in one of the several resorts.
For more solitary escape, Al Akah provides a cool setting with luxury resorts lining the beach. Clear water makes it a hotspot for snorkeling and diving, with vibrant coral reefs with sea life.
Fujairah will keep any adventure lover busy with outdoor sporting events. Hiking in the Hajar Mountains is an exciting experience with rocky paths, dry riverbeds known as wadis, and magnificent viewpoints. In fact, one of the best hiking trails exists in Wadi Wurayah National Park - an enclosed haven of extremely rare natural beauty, waterfalls, and pools with opportunities aplenty for visitors to take a dip in the cool fresh waters.
Fujairah has a diving and snorkeling haven. It boasts the richest dive spots on the entire coastline of the UAE, making it truly unparalleled in marine biodiversity. Snoopy Island, that famous diving and snorkeling spot near Al Aqah Beach, is home to sea turtles, reef sharks, and abundant fish. Warm water and visibility make it easy diving for all levels of divers, from beginners to experts. Martini Rock and Dibba Rock are a cut above the rest, courtesy of coral gardens teaming with exotic marine species. Diving centers operate guided excursions in Fujairah and also conduct PADI certification courses to allow you to dive deeper into the wonders of the underwater world.
Visit Mohamed bin Zayed Mosque and other temples in Fujairah. In addition to Al Badiyah Mosque, Fujairah has several other incredibly beautiful mosques. Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Fujairah is among the biggest mosques in the UAE, adorned with white domes and intricate designs of Islamic architecture. The infidels are not allowed to enter, but the outside is simply breathtaking.
For a unique experience in Fujairah, visit the Friday Market which is known as Souq Al Jumaa. It is located on the road between Fujairah and Dubai. It is an open-air market known for selling the traditional Arabic goods like carpets, pottery, fruits, and handcrafted items. It’s a great place to shop for souvenirs to rake back home and experience the local culture.
Fujairah is home to some of the most luxurious resorts in the UAE, making it a great destination for a relaxing getaway. Resorts like Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, Miramar Al Aqah Beach Resort, and Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort offer world-class hospitality, private beaches, and rejuvenating spa treatments. Enjoy a day at the spa, indulge in fine dining, or simply relax by the pool with breathtaking sea views.
Food lovers visiting Fujairah will delight in its diverse culinary scene, which blends traditional Emirati flavors with fresh seafood delights. Local restaurants like Al Meshwar and Sadaf serve authentic dishes such as Machboos, a fragrant spiced rice with meat, and Harees, a hearty wheat and meat porridge. For a unique experience, visitors can savor a beachside barbecue at one of the luxurious resorts or explore the Fujairah Fish Market, where they can handpick the freshest catches and have them cooked to perfection on the spot.
While Fujairah’s nightlife is more laid-back compared to Dubai, there are still plenty of entertainment options. Many beachfront resorts have lively bars and lounges offering cocktails, live music, and themed nights. For a cultural evening, catch a traditional dance performance or visit a shisha café to unwind with aromatic flavors.
For a soothing experience, visit the Ain Al Madhab Hot Springs, located near Fujairah City. These natural hot springs are known for their mineral-rich waters, which are believed to have healing properties. The site also features lush gardens and picnic areas, making it a great spot for relaxation.
A short drive from Fujairah, the nearby towns of Kalba and Khor Fakkan offer additional attractions. Kalba is home to the Kalba Corniche Park, a beautiful waterfront promenade perfect for a leisurely stroll. Khor Fakkan, surrounded by mountains and beaches, offers incredible snorkeling and boat tour opportunities.