Fujairah Adventure Park Special Offer
March 19, 2023
Snoopy Island In Fujairah: A Hidden Gem For You To Explore This 2023
July 3, 202315 Best Places to Visit in Fujairah in 2023
Fujairah is known for its mild climate and unique geographical features. Located on the east coast of UAE, it is characterized by stunning beaches and high mountains. While Dubai is famed for its modern architectural wonders, Fujairah is soothing and picturesque. There are many popular as well as lesser-known local places to visit in Fujairah. You can also find a number of affordable resorts and 5 star hotels in Fujairah which offer luxurious stay.
Tourists often fawn over the architectural marvels and rich cultural heritage of Fujairah.
We have listed 15 places you must check out in Fujairah.
1. Al Bidya Mosque (Ottoman Mosque)
Visit this UNESCO Heritage Site to witness an architectural marvel that has withstood the ravages of time. The Al Bidya Mosque, alternatively known as the Ottoman Mosque, is the oldest standing mosque in the UAE. The mosque gets its name from the village wherein it stands. Believed to be around 600 years old, the mosque’s well-preserved structure is characterized by its unique architecture – four domes supported by a single central pillar. The architectural style is reminiscent of the Ottoman period.
The mosque is open to the public and the entry is free. If you have a penchant for historical relics and archaeological marvels, include the Al Bidya Mosque to your itinerary.
The mosque is open to the public and the entry is free. If you have a penchant for historical relics and archaeological marvels include the Al Bidya Mosque to your itinerary.
2. Fujairah Fort and the Heritage Village
One of the oldest forts in Fujairah, the Fujairah Fort is a mud-brick building that was once a defensive structure. Constructed in the 16th century, the fort is a prominent tourist attraction in the city. It is around 3 km away from the coast and perches upon a high hill. Visitors can also visit the Heritage Village set up by the Department of Archaeology where you can catch a glimpse of early local life. The village showcases utensils, farming tools, and handicraft items. Explore the local history while sipping a cup of Qahwa, the traditional Arabic coffee.
3. Al-Hayl Castle
Built-in the 19th century, the Al-Hayl Castle is a historical site managed by the Department of Antiquities and Heritage. Inside the castle, the visitors can explore the beautiful majlis (meeting rooms) and the elegant architecture of the other rooms.
The castle consists of a residential compound and a fort known as the Al-Hayl Fort. The fort, located atop a small hill, overlooks the palace and offers the visitors a bird’s eye view of the castle and the verdant valley surrounding it.
4. Hajar Mountains
The Hajar Mountains rise over the borders of Oman and the UAE. You can also find the highest peak in UAE here. The parts of the mountain range that is located in Fujairah include the Wadi Al Waruyah, Wadi Al Hayl, and Wadi Saji.
Consider adding a trekking or hiking session in the Hajar Mountain ranges to your itinerary. Take in the endemic vegetation and wildlife as you hike through the mountains.
5. Al Aqah
If you visit Fujairah, you must visit Al Aqah. It is a beautiful coastal town with mesmerizing beaches and many scenic resorts. Many of the five star resorts in Fujairah are located in the picturesque town of Al Aqah. You can select a hotel in Fujairah city from a variety of options, including hotels and resorts offering amenities such as private beaches and swimming pools. Visit the beach resorts and have a magical time with your loved ones.
6. Masafi Village
The Masafi village is nestled on the border of two Emirates – Ras al Khaimah and Fujairah. It is a leading producer of mineral water owing to its natural springs. The local market (Masafi Market) is the main attraction of this village and one of the most popular places to visit in Fujairah. Pick up souvenirs, carpets, handicrafts, crockery, and authentic Arabic coffee at the Masafi market.
7. Snoopy Island
Does the name remind you of someone? The Snoopy Island in Fujairah was named after the cartoon character Snoopy, the beagle in the comic strip ‘Peanuts’. Wondering why? Take a look at the outline of the island, it resembles Snoopy lying on his back.
Snoopy Island, located in the Indian Ocean, boasts a plethora of marine life, coral reefs, and shipwrecks. Visitors can swim through the crystal waters surrounding the island and explore the tranquil island or set up camp on the coastlines. If you are adventurous enough, you can also enroll yourself in diving classes and go snorkeling. The island offers many other water sports like kayaking and paddle boarding.
8. Bithnah Fort
Also called the Al Bithnah Fort, this fort offers free entry for anyone who wishes to explore it. The fort was built in the 18th century and is considered one of the oldest forts in the UAE. The fort is characterized by the golden stone with which it was constructed.
The fort consists of two towers and a guard’s room. The design of the fort is reminiscent of the Al Hayl Castle and is a prime example of the elegance of Arabic architecture. What you see today is a restored version of the original fort, which has faced many battles.
9. Umbrella Beach
Umbrella Beach is a recent waterfront development with many restaurants, food trucks, drive-throughs, and cafes. Overlooking the Gulf of Oman, it is a popular destination with various recreational activities like walking trails, and Kids’ Jungle. It also offers various water sports activities as well as other fitness activities.
You can find many resorts and hotels in Fujairah near the Umbrella Beach for a relaxed stay. Pick an accommodation nearby like the Al Bahar Hotel and Resort which is just 1.7 km from Umbrella Beach.
10. Ain Al Madhab Hot Springs
Ain Al Madhab Hot Springs is a freshwater spring in Fujairah that is immensely popular among visitors looking for a destination to refresh themselves. There are separate pools for men, women, and children. In addition to the hot springs, you can also visit the Ain Al Madhab Gardens.
Pick from the many family friendly hotels in Fujairah to stay near Ain Al Madhab Hot Springs and enjoy a rejuvenating time.
11. Sheik Zayed Mosque
The Sheik Zayed Mosque is the second largest mosque in the UAE, the first being Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. The stunning white facade of the mosque is a sight to behold and the walls of the main entrance are etched with verses from the Quran. The interior of the mosque is not open to non-Muslims, but the mosque’s exterior is a mesmerizing sight in itself.
12. Fujairah Museum
Interested in the history of scenic Fujairah? Visit the Fujairah Museum to get a peek into the rich history and culture of the Emirate. The museum displays a variety of exhibits related to agriculture, pottery, and fishing as well as other items like weapons, costumes, and jewelry. Choose a top star hotel near to these magnificent structures like the Al Bahar Hotel which is just 3 km away from the Fujairah Museum.
13. Wadi Wuraya National Park
Located in the Hajar Mountains, the Wadi Wuraya National Park is the only terrestrial protected area in Fujairah. Many critically endangered plants, birds, and animals are protected here. Visit the park to experience the verdant mountain area and the diverse flora and fauna therein.
14. Rainbow Mountain
This one is for hikers. The Rainbow Valley is a popular hiking trail often called the Spectrum hike. The trail is of intermediate difficulty, but if you are a beginner you can choose not to do the full trail. Even if you are not a hiker, Rainbow Mountain in Fujairah is a beautiful destination to visit. The color gradients and the layers of rocks are quite picturesque and can provide you with a chance to click some Instagram-worthy photos.
15. Bull butting
The bull-butting event is a lesser-known attraction in Fujairah. The event is not as violent as the bullfights in Spain and is quite popular with family tourists in Fujairah. The event is held in a small arena and has been in practice for hundreds of years. Anyone can attend as no entry fee is levied. A peculiarity of the event is that there is no prize money and the bulls are not injured.
Conclusion
The Emirate of Fujairah is blessed with a milder climate and many geographical features like plateaus, valleys, oases, and sandy beaches. It is an enchanting destination that offers relaxation and adventure. Choosing an accommodation close to these top attractions in Fujairah will help you save your time and cut down costs to a great extent. In this regard, the Al Bahar Hotel in Fujairah will be an ideal choice. According to your preference, compile an itinerary of the best places to visit in Fujairah, using this article.
7 Comments
Fujairah is indeed a hidden gem in the UAE, and this article beautifully captures its unique charm. I’m particularly intrigued by the Al Bidya Mosque and its rich history. It’s amazing to think about how this mosque has stood the test of time.
The Hajar Mountains and Snoopy Island sound like must-visit natural wonders in Fujairah. I can’t wait to explore these areas on my next trip. It’s great to have this list of attractions to plan an exciting itinerary.
The Fujairah Fort and Heritage Village offer a fantastic insight into the region’s history and culture. It’s refreshing to explore historical sites like these while sipping traditional Arabic coffee.
Fujairah truly seems like a hidden gem with its unique blend of natural beauty and historical wonders. The Al Bidya Mosque, in particular, stands out as a testament to the rich history of the region. Its architectural style, reminiscent of the Ottoman period, adds to its allure. Exploring the Fujairah Fort and Heritage Village provides a glimpse into the local history and culture, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts. I’m intrigued by the Hajar Mountains and the hiking opportunities they offer, and Al Aqah’s picturesque coastal town sounds like the perfect place for a relaxing getaway.
Fujairah sounds like a hidden gem in the UAE! The Al Bidya Mosque, in particular, caught my attention with its fascinating history and unique architectural style. I can’t believe it’s been standing for around 600 years. It’s definitely going on my must-visit list. And the Fujairah Fort with its Heritage Village seems like a great place to dive into the local history and culture. I’m always eager to explore historical sites, and Fujairah seems to offer a rich tapestry of experiences. Can’t wait to plan my trip there!
I’ve always been fascinated by the history and heritage of different places, and Fujairah seems like a treasure trove of cultural experiences. The mention of the Al-Hayl Castle, with its beautiful architecture and the Al-Hayl Fort offering panoramic views, is truly enticing. It’s amazing how these historical sites have been preserved and opened to the public. I also appreciate the inclusion of the Heritage Village, where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life. Fujairah is definitely on my travel bucket list now!
Fujairah’s natural beauty and historical charm are definitely calling out to me. The Al Bidya Mosque’s architecture is intriguing, and I can’t resist the allure of visiting a UNESCO Heritage Site. Fujairah Fort and the Heritage Village sound like a perfect blend of history and culture. And the Al-Hayl Castle atop a hill with its bird’s eye view of the surroundings sounds like a dream. I can already imagine taking in the breathtaking scenery. Fujairah is now on my radar for my next nature and history-filled adventure!