Detached from the rest of the Emirates by the Hajar Mountain range, Fujairah boasts of a pristine location with a unspoiled natural beauty. Fujairah lies on the Gulf of Oman and is the only emirate which does not have a shore on the Arabian Gulf. Fujairah travel ranks high as a tourist activity in UAE, mainly due to the tranquility brought forth by the picturesque mountainside and clean beaches. The emirate is well known for water sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling and deep-sea fishing.
For history buffs, Fujairah is an abundance of delight. One of the most interesting historical aspects of this traditional fishing village are the number of ancient ruins situated in and around Fujairah. Fujairah was the first home for immigrants who arrived from the southeastern Arabian Peninsula. The old fort which is approximately 300 years old, was used as a fortress to protect the city from invaders . Now it stands as a proud reminder of the town’s recent past. However, several important archeological finds have shown that the presence of man in this region actually dates back to the Iron Age. One of the best ways to experience the intriguing history of a city or a country is to go to local museums.
The Fujairah Heritage Village depicts the traditional way of life for residents of Emirates, traditional houses, farming tools, cooking utensils, and the Al Yazrah irrigation system, used for irrigating fields with a working bull. The village offers visitors an insight into the past lifestyle of residents. The Heritage Village and the Fujairah Fort are located right next to one another so you can experience both in one go.
Built in 1670, the Fujairah Fort is the oldest fort in the UAE. A mud-brick structure with three major sections, the Fort was used as a defensive building and a home for the ruling family back in its glory days. It was badly damaged during the early 20th century. However, it has been renovated now and stands as the only stone building along the Fujairah coast.
The Fujairah Museum takes visitors back in time to 300 years of a colorful history. On display are artifacts found in archeological digs at Bitnah and Qidfa. These range from pieces of steel, brass, bronze, silver and gold to painted pottery, old weapons and various swords, pre-Islamic coins, beautiful silver jewelry, herbs and folk medicine to much more. A unique item on displace is a 2200-year-old ostrich egg which was used as a bowl.
Bull Butting, a sport hailing from 16th and 17th century Portugal, is a leading event in Fujairah. The event takes place every Friday and tourists and locals gather at an open field to watch the battling of bulls.
Located in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, the Ain Al Madhab Gardens is a popular spot for relaxation. The region is a mineral spa fed by mineral springs where people come for swimming in the warm sulphuric water of the pools. The Garden also includes an outdoor theatre, ruins of an old fort and a heritage village.
The village Masafi, is located along the edge of Hajar Mountains near Fujairah. Well known for its natural springs, Masafi is the Gulf’s leading natural mineral water producer. The village is divided into two parts; the large part belongs to Fujairah and the smaller one belongs to Ras Al Khaimah. About 30km before Fujairah on the road from Dhaid you’ll drive through Masafi’s famous Friday Market (Souq al Juma)
Wadis (meaning oasis in Arabic) are dry riverbeds containing water collected during heavy rainfall. Fujairah is renowned for its picturesque Wadis set beside a mountain backdrop. Wadi ham is the largest and longest from the Masafi area. Some of the Wadis also feature scenic waterfalls.
Fujairah can meet the needs of any tourist’s shopping desires. From street markets to extensive shopping centers such as the Fujairah Night Souk, a variety of shopping options are available. A great part of shopping in Fujairah or any Emirate in the United Arab Emirates is the bargaining.
Fujairah is a 2-hour drive from Dubai. The Fujairah International Airport makes access easy by air. Traveling by car is also a viable option as Fujairah has highways and a good road system. A cheap and reliable bus service is also available from Dubai and surrounding locations. Men and women have separate seating areas in buses. Taxis are another method of transport to reach Fujairah or to travel within the region. It is difficult to get around the city on foot, as there are few pedestrian facilities.
Fujairah is just the place you want to travel to in order to partake in the best of Arabic and Indian cuisine. Fujairah is the place to experience the best in Arabic and Indian cuisine. From large restaurants to small cafes and street vendors, Fujairah offers a myriad of dining options. The night time souk market extravaganza has eateries located throughout the selling booths. Fujairah even has western fast food restaurants for those who do not fancy the local cuisine.