The Old Khorfakkan Market Pulsates with Traditional Products and Handicrafts

The Old Khorfakkan Market serves as a window into Emirati heritage, brimming with the beauty of traditional products and handicrafts. This market dates back to a time long before the establishment of the union, reflecting the cultural and historical depth of the region. Thanks to its restoration in 2019, the market has been revitalized, making a visit a unique experience that blends authenticity with modernity.

History of the Old Khorfakkan Market

The history of the Old Khorfakkan Market stretches back decades before the formation of the union. With the economic development and growth the country has experienced, the market has seen gradual expansion. In 2019, it was completely restored under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, allowing the market to regain its original architectural design. The market is located near the historic Khorfakkan port, making it a vibrant center for trade in the past and a place that embodies the social and economic life of the Arabian Gulf.

Landmarks of the Old Khorfakkan Market

The Old Khorfakkan Market is rich in heritage landmarks that tell stories from ancient times. The “Old Market Museum” is one of the most prominent features, inaugurated by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi in October 2020. The museum highlights the tangible heritage of the United Arab Emirates and showcases ancient arts and handicrafts that reflect local civilization.

The handicrafts displayed in the museum include sewing, carpentry, and blacksmithing, alongside traditional professions such as pearl diving and pottery making. Workshops and periodic events are organized to revive these crafts and teach artistic skills to new generations.

Popular Restaurants and Cafés

The Old Khorfakkan Market offers a unique experience for visitors through a variety of restaurants and cafés that serve traditional dishes. These venues provide a gathering place for people of all ages to mingle and share conversations, reflecting the atmosphere of ancient traditions. Some prefer to sit outdoors to enjoy the market’s ambiance, while others enjoy beverages in the indoor settings.

Heritage Products and Shops

The essence of tradition is evident in the shops and stalls found in the Old Khorfakkan Market, where a diverse range of popular and heritage products are displayed. From food items like dates and spices to clothing and sweets, visitors find unmatched joy in shopping. The flow of visitors in the market remains active throughout the day, as people from various areas come to purchase their daily needs or to enjoy the heritage atmosphere.

Additionally, Sheikh Ahmed bin Hassan Mosque is located in the heart of the market and has been restored to maintain its traditional design. The mosque serves as a meeting point for worshippers and adds a spiritual dimension to the market, enhancing social ties among its visitors.

The Old Khorfakkan Market is not just a shopping destination; it is a manifestation of culture and history. People from all over the world visit this market to learn about traditional products and handicrafts, allowing them to experience the rhythm of life that has pulsed through the region over the years.

References

• visitsharjah.com, Eastern Market
• sharjah24.ae, Traditional Handicrafts Museum in Khorfakkan: A Tourist Destination that Enhances Heritage and Economy
• sgmb.ae, The Ruler of Sharjah Inaugurates the Heritage Area in Khorfakkan and Inspects Several Development Projects
• sheikhdrsultan.ae, Sultan Al Qasimi Inaugurates the Heritage Area in Khorfakkan