Fujairah, the only emirate on the UAE’s east coast, offers a unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty, rich history, and adventure. Just a two-hour drive from Dubai, this coastal gem is increasingly becoming a sought-after destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a history buff, there are endless opportunities for exploration in Fujairah. In this article, we present 11 things to do in Fujairah that will make your visit truly memorable.
Snorkel around Snoopy Island
Nestled off the coast, Snoopy Island, named for its resemblance to the iconic cartoon dog, is a snorkeling paradise. Here, you’ll encounter a vibrant array of marine life, including turtles, colorful fish, and even the occasional white-tip reef shark. Consider booking a daycation at the Sandy Beach Resort, which offers direct access to the island, as well as snorkeling equipment rental and various non-motorised water sports. Families will appreciate the resort’s mini waterpark and stunning infinity pool with a swim-up bar.
Sandy Beach Resort, Fujairah, Al Aqah. Tel: (0)9 244 5555. Entry: Dhs150 daily, 9am until sunset. sandybeach.ae
Discover Fujairah Fort
A must-see for history enthusiasts, Fujairah Fort is one of the UAE’s oldest and largest forts, dating back to the 16th century. Standing at approximately 20 meters above sea level, the fort provides panoramic views of the surrounding city. It has played a crucial role in defending against invasions, including those by the British Royal Navy.
Fujairah Fort, Fujairah City. Open daily, 8am to 5pm. Free entry. Tel: (0)9 223 9201.
Enjoy a Meal at Turtle Beach Bar
Located within the Royal Beach Hotel, Turtle Beach Bar offers picturesque views of Dibba Rock and a laid-back beach shack ambience. With direct beach access, the bar serves a delightful menu including cocktails, mocktails, fish and chips, burgers, and much more, daily from 11 am. Pets are welcome, making it a perfect family spot.
Royal Beach Hotel & Resort, Al Faqeet Area, Dibba, Fujairah. Open from 11am to 12am. Tel: (0)9 244 9444. royalbeach.ae
Hike through Wadi Abadilah
Wadi Abadilah offers an excellent hiking experience with stunning scenery and refreshing wadi dips. The trail, rated as easy to moderate, leads you through agricultural lands adorned with banana trees, mango trees, and date palms. Be on the lookout for streams and pools along the way, but keep an eye on younger hikers due to some potentially slippery rocks.
Coordinates: 25.440816, 56.196784.
Savor Seafood at Salia
If you’re seeking a chic dining experience, Salia Fujairah is where to indulge in fresh seafood while enjoying beach views. Part of the Address Beach Resort, this modern seafood bar and grill features a direct beach access. Don’t miss their renowned seafood mix grill.
Salia, Address Beach Resort, Fujairah. Open Tuesday to Sunday for lunch from 1pm to 4pm and dinner from 6:30pm to 10:30pm. Closed on Mondays. Tel: (0)9 204 7777. addresshotels.com
Thrill-seekers at Fujairah Adventure Park
Sprawled across 20 hectares, Fujairah Adventure Park is an exhilarating destination for families. Enjoy activities such as biking, hiking, wall climbing, and kayaking, all set against breathtaking mountain views. If you don’t have your own gear, rentals are available on-site. The park also features an open-air cinema and a coffee shop for relaxation.
Fujairah Adventure Park. Open daily, from 2pm to 10pm, with the ziplane and kayak activities closing at 7pm. Entrance: from Dhs120. Tel: (0)56 5111 660. fujairahadventurepark.ae
Explore the Rainbow Mountain
Wadi Ghub, known as the Rainbow Mountain, is a hiker’s dream featuring exceptionally colorful rock formations. The moderate to challenging 15km loop demands sturdy hiking boots and plenty of water, offering rewarding vistas along the way.
Coordinates: 25.577141897459178, 56.18519758915695.
Visit Al Bidya Mosque
Located on the route between Dibba and Khorfakkan, Al Bidya Mosque is the oldest mosque in the UAE, constructed from traditional mud and stone. It remains active today and has been recognized by UNESCO for its unique architectural features, including its four domes and significant archaeological carvings.
Al Bidya, Fujairah.
Enjoy the Floating Waterpark
Aqua Bounce, Fujairah’s first-ever floating water park, is located inside the Fairmont Hotel. With spectacular views of mountains and the Indian Ocean, visitors can enjoy numerous attractions such as slides, towers, and monkey bars for endless family-friendly fun.
Fairmont Hotel, Mina Al Fajer, Dibba, Fujairah. Open from 10am to 5pm, closed on Wednesdays. Tel: (0)9 204 1111. fairmont.com
Discover Quaint Cafés in Masafi
The charming village of Masafi, located about 30 minutes from Fujairah, is worth the scenic drive. Its famous ‘Friday’ market offers everything from fresh produce to carpets (haggling is encouraged). Be sure to stop by Cafe De La Ville for refreshing drinks and smoothies.
De La Ville Cafe, Masafi Town, Fujairah. Open daily from 10am to 12am. Tel: (0)566499621. @cafe.dela.ville
Stroll Along Umbrella Beach
Umbrella Beach has quickly become a hub for family activities in Fujairah. Features include padel tennis courts, walking trails, beach volleyball, and a children’s jungle gym. There are a variety of dining options nearby, including Chicken Man and Mara.
Umbrella Beach, Fujairah. Tel: (0)92239090. umbrella-beach.com
Images: Instagram