The prime settlement of the East Coast, Fujairah is a
modern city and a popular travelers’ destination. Though Fujairah is one of the
seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, a rugged line of the famous Hajar
Mountains separates the city from the rest six emirates. The destination is
popularly known for stunning historical structures that are glorified with the
finest restoration work. Clean beaches and crystal clear water host a number of
activities such as swimming, scuba diving, snorkeling, water surfing, yachting,
and deep sea fishing; luring thousands of tourists from all over the world.
Mesmerizing historical monuments, serene beaches, unique architecture,
beautiful mosques, wadis, and much more – Fujairah has a lot to offer every
visitor!
Have a quick glance at some of the best tourist
attractions in Fujairah that you must visit.
Fujairah Fort
Supposedly the oldest fort in the UAE history, Fujairah
Fort has served the emirate as an important defensive building as well as a
ruling family’s residence. The fort that was built in the year 1670 was
erroneously damaged during the early 20th century, by a British
attack. The fort has been restored to the best of its glory, within past few
years. It can be described as a wonderful structure comprising of three major
sections, one square tower, two round towers, and several halls. In the
Heritage Village surrounding the fort, you can view a number of restored
houses, traditional life exhibits, and the demo of the Al-Yazrah irrigation
system that used to be practiced as a traditional method by old Emirati
farmers.
Al-Bidyah Mosque
A little towards the North of the Fujairah city, you can
visit the oldest mosque in the UAE – Al-Bidyah Mosque. It’s a mud-brick
construction that’s still considered to be the greatest accomplishment of that
time. The spacious prayer hall in the mosque is divided into four equal squares
by the central pillar. Decorated with beautiful arches and a prayer niche
(mihrab), the hall is lined with ventilation openings. This mosque offers peaceful
atmosphere that’s worth to experience.
Al-Hayl Castle
The fort was built around 250 years ago and is fondly
known as the Sheikh Abdullah Palace. It has always been an important part of
the area’s defense strategy. Having served as the surveillance and patrolling
base, the Al-Hayl Castle was once the residence of the Fujairah’s ruling
family. However, it ensures the caravan route to get into the city. The fort
area is cavernous, featuring a spacious courtyard with sleeping quarters,
kitchen, a watchtower, storage, and even salons.
Bull Butting
Bull butting is an ancient sport in Fujairah that was
introduced by Portuguese colonizers. On every Friday, tourists can watch this
popular family event that begins with around 10 pairs of bulls fighting with each
other. While the winners move ahead to the next round, tourists can experience
the frisson of thrill even if trained attendants carefully handle the bulls
around.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Once in Fujairah, your must visit the modern Sheikh Zayed
Mosque that’s as huge as around three football pitches. A wonderfully
constructed structure features six 100 meter high minarets and a spacious
mammoth prayer hall with the capacity of accommodating almost 32,000
worshippers. It’s one of the largest mosques across the UAE and the white
facade makes a major landmark in the city.
Bithnah Fort
This fort was built in the year 1735 and was considered
to be one of the vital spots related to the defense of the Easterm region of
the UAE. Though it’s situated outside the city of Fujairah, the fort witnesses
all the strategic routes that cross the Wadi Ham and ultimately, the Hajar
Mountains.
Fujairah Museum
Do antiques interest you? The Fujairah Museum is the
right place to spend a few hours then! A drive to a little South of the
Fujairah Fort is the Fujairah Museum that exhibits an incredible collection of
ancient artifacts that date back to the Bronze Age and have been unearthed
during the archeological work in Qidfa and Bithnah. Take a look at the weaponry
from the Bronze and Iron Age, painted pottery, pre-Islamic silver coins, and
carved soapstone vessels. The famous bowl made up of the ostrich egg (2,200
years ago) is still here in the museum. You can also take a glance at the
typical Emirati lifestyle display.
Ain al-Madhab Hot Springs
Experience the local retreat at the Ain al-Madhab Hot
Springs! A perfect location at the foothills of the Hajar Mountains makes this
place an easily accessible one. You’ll be amazed to know that these mineral
springs give out warm sulfuric water that’s later pumped into two different
swimming pools. Males and females can bathe in separate bathing areas.
Beaches in & around Fujairah
Beaches in Fujairah are some of the best ones in the
country and offer exceptionally good facilities to visitors. You cannot miss on
one of the scuba diving and snorkeling experiences that these beaches have in
store for you! While you can relax and soak up the sun, the Fujairah beaches
offer a lot of facilities including cafes, restaurants, sunshades, and loungers
must for a day trip with your family.
Wadis
Have you ever heard of the wadis? The unique topography
of this region imparts the region dry riverbeds popularly known as wadis
(valleys). You can visit some of the most beautiful wadis including the longest
one - Wadi Ham, Wadi Mai, and Wadi Saham. Moreover, Wadi al-Tawain and Wadi
al-Wuraya are two sought after attractions for the stunning route through
mountains.
Masafi
The Masafi village, located on the outline of the Hajar
Mountains, was once a refueling post and trading spot during the construction
of modern highways in the region. The village is best known among tourists for
its natural springs and the leading mineral water producer in the Gulf is
located near Masafi. As you drive through the Dubai-Fujairah Road and come near
Masafi, a fabulous local market welcomes you with hundreds of appealing
antiques, carpets, earthenware, and local handicrafts.
Several tourists, who travel to emirate’s jewel Dubai,
often drive to Fujairah to relax. It is only 40 minutes drive from Dubai. For
relaxing and sunbathing, the beautiful coastline of Fujairah is ideal.
Several tourist flocks Fujairah for a break from glitz
& glamour of Dubai. For adventure lovers, Dubai is a paradise. This city is
perfect for land, sea and air adventure. Adventure enthusiasts can explore as
many as 101 things to do in Dubai. Both the
emirates are so beautiful in their own way that pulls travelers from different
parts of the world.
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