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5 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Fujairah
Fujairah city is a modern, industrial town and the main settlement of the east coast. The emirate is separated from the rest of the United Arab Emirates by the jagged line of the Hajar Mountains, and although the city itself is a grid pattern of high-rise office blocks with little to offer visitors, Fujairah Emirate's beaches to the north are some of the nicest in the UAE. This beautiful slice of coastline is ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and scuba diving.
Away from the sand, Fujairah is a great base for exploring the Hajar Mountains and the series of small forts and historical buildings, such as the Al-Bidyah Mosque, that speckle the coast. For ideas on the best things to do, see our list of the top attractions in Fujairah.
1. Al-Bidyah Mosque: About 35 kilometers north of Fujairah city, the mud-brick Al-Bidyah Mosque is the oldest in the United Arab Emirates and was named after the town that once surrounded it. The engineering features are a major accomplishment for the period of construction. The mosque consists of a prayer hall, decorated with arches, and featuring ventilation openings and a mihrab (prayer niche pointing to Mecca). A central pillar divides the internal space into four squares of similar dimensions, covered by domed ceilings.
2. Fujairah Fort: Built in 1670, Fujairah Fort was badly damaged by a British attack in the early 20th century. Considered the oldest fort in the United Arab Emirates, it has served previously as both a defensive building and a home for the ruling family. And for many centuries, it was the only stone building along the Fujairah coast. The fort has three major sections, several halls, one square tower, and two round towers. In recent years, it has been fully restored to its former glory.
3. Al Aqah Beach: About 45 kilometers north of Fujairah City, Al Aqah beach, dominated by the rocky outcrop of "Snoopy Island" just offshore, is the emirate of Fujairah's top beach resort. This slither of the coast, sitting on the Gulf of Oman, offers the United Arab Emirate's best opportunities for scuba diving and snorkeling and is a must-do for underwater enthusiasts.
4. Bithnah Fort: Outside Fujairah city, 13 kilometers away along the main highway, Bithna Fort once stood to watch over the strategic routes crossing the Hajar Mountains through Wadi Ham. Built-in 1735, the fort was considered of vital importance to the defense of the United Arab Emirates' eastern region. The fort's bulky frame of thick golden-stoned walls, edged by a chunky circular watchtower, makes it particularly photogenic, while the views from the ramparts over the countryside of palm groves and jagged mountains behind are spectacular.
5. Hajar Mountain Wadis: The Hajar Mountains separate the western coast of the United Arab Emirates from Fujairah, making this emirate an excellent base for further exploration of the rocky and arid terrain. This area of the mountains is well known for its wadis (a wadi is essentially a dry riverbed that can contain water after heavy rain but can also refer to any valley oasis), and wadi-bashing (four-wheel-driving or hiking through the wadis) is one of Fujairah's major things to do for visitors.
Among the most beautiful wadis in the area are Wadi Siji, Wadi Saham, and Wadi Maidaq. Wadi Ham is the longest valley, and Wadi Al Taiwan is fun to visit just as much for the stunning mountainous route it takes to reach it.
Fujairah, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Here's a glimpse into the fascinating history of Fujairah:
1. Ancient Times: The region around Fujairah has been inhabited since ancient times. Archaeological discoveries indicate human settlements dating back to the Bronze Age.
2. Bani Yas Tribe: The Bani Yas tribe, an Arabic-speaking nomadic group, played a significant role in the region's history. They settled in Fujairah and other parts of the UAE and were known for their trading activities.
3. Portuguese Rule: In the 16th century, Fujairah came under Portuguese rule as they sought control over trade routes in the Indian Ocean. The Portuguese built fortresses along the coast, including in Fujairah City.
4. Al Qasimi Dynasty: The Al Qasimi dynasty, originally from Sharjah, established their rule over Fujairah in the early 18th century. They successfully repelled multiple attempts by foreign powers to control or colonize their territory.
5. British Protectorate: In 1952, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi signed an agreement with Britain, making Fujairah a British protectorate until its independence in 1971 when it joined other emirates to form the UAE.
6. Economic Development: Over time, Fujairah transformed from a small fishing and trading village into a prosperous city due to its strategic location on the Gulf of Oman and its natural resources like fisheries and agriculture.
Today, Fujairah is known for its stunning coastline with pristine beaches and coral reefs perfect for diving enthusiasts. It also boasts historical landmarks such as Al Bidyah Mosque - believed to be one of the oldest mosques in the UAE - and Fujairah Fort - an important historical site that offers panoramic views of the city.
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