Fujairah Travel Guide
Introduction
Fujairah is the capital city of the emirate of the same name. It is the only place in the UAE on the Gulf of Oman – as such, you’ll find some excellent beaches.
Away from the ocean, this places stands out for its castles and forts.
Come check out our Fujairah travel guide as we cover the best things to do in Fujairah, United Arab Emirates.
Top Attractions
Begin your visit to Fujairah by spending a couple of hours exploring the Fujairah Museum. Within, you’ll find artifacts found by archaeologists at dig sites within the Emirate of Fujairah. These include implements found in tombs, like pottery, arrowheads, and beads.
Other halls explain the local culture going back centuries. One covers occupations taken by locals – farming, fishing, weaving, trading, and pottery making figure prominently. Another shows off traditional clothing, weapons of war, and eating utensils. The last one portrays a souk – it simulates several types of stall, including a decorative spice shop.
After you have gotten your fill of local history and culture, walk over to nearby Fujairah Fort. While not fully confirmed, this castle is likely the oldest of its kind in the United Arab Emirates. Carbon dating places its construction in the mid-16th century. For centuries, it resisted one colonial attack after another until it finally fell to the British in 1925.
Despite taking considerable damage, the structure was restored shortly after that. Its insides, which includes a former prison, gives the visitor an idea of what life was like centuries ago. On its ramparts, views of the city of Fujairah are possible, so don’t forget to take a picture!
Those looking for a meaningful day trip from Fujairah will want to head out to Al Badiyah Mosque. It is situated more than 50 kilometres outside town, so you’ll need to rent a car for the day. Once you arrive, though, you’ll be in the presence of one of the oldest mosques in the UAE.
It won’t immediately register – the structure is small and made of mud bricks. However, this simple yet visually attractive structure has been serving the faithful since the 15th century. It is a popular tourist attraction in the UAE – however, respectful standards for dress still apply. No shoes, knees/shoulders/chest must be covered, and if you’re female, you must wear a hijab.
Are you looking for a larger masjid more befitting of the UAE’s larger-than-life profile? Once you arrive back in Fujairah, visit the Grand Sheikh Zayed Mosque. Upon its opening in 2015, this massive place of worship could handle 28,000 worshippers.
It is the second biggest mosque in the country – only Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque beats it. Come back at night, as colourful spotlights illuminate this structure after dark.
Other Attractions
The Fujairah area has many other fortifications than just the Fujairah Fort. Start by checking out Al-Bithnah Fort. This mud-brick adobe fort was built in the 19th century to counter the threat posed by Wahhabists.
Travel from the Gulf of Oman coast to the rest of the UAE passed through this area. As a result, the building of this fortification brought badly-needed protection for caravans travelling through the region.
Unlike other forts in the Fujairah area, this one tends to be quieter, as it lies off the beaten path. Persevere, and you may have this place to yourself.
Al Hayl Fort is another spot that is well worth a visit. Like Al-Bithnah Fort, Al Hayl Fort lies off the tourist trail. If you visit while the caretaker is around, though, you can explore this former home of a local ruler.
It is an interesting place for such a residence, as wilderness surrounds it. However, a quick look at the surrounding mountains, and you’ll understand. However, do note that the road in is quite rough. As such, we recommend hiring a 4×4 vehicle so you can access the site without issue.
Do you want to get in some beach time during your visit to Fujairah? Make plans to spend a day relaxing on Snoopy Island. Several spendy resorts base themselves here. As such, you’ll have to pay an entry fee to access the beach.
It is worth it, though – their beaches are spotlessly clean, and many offer a lunch buffet with admission. One last note: The waters off the beaches make for excellent snorkelling – don’t forget your mask and snorkel!
In the evenings, make a trip down to Kalba Corniche Park. In a part of the world known for deserts, this green space stands out brilliantly. As the day gives way to evening, locals socialize, walk along the shore, and BBQ at its grills. If you’re looking to people watch in Fujairah, this is the perfect place to do it.