Visit Fujairah, UAE

Ocher-hued mountains, plunging waterfalls, pristine coral reefs, and valleys peppered with historic sandstone forts… Fujairah is a lesser-visited haven well-suited to those seeking a more authentic and nature-focused trip to the UAE.

Strikingly different to the rest of the country, Fujairah is the undiscovered jewel in the UAE’s crown. Restoratively relaxing, it exudes a wild beauty and profound cultural heritage, making it the ideal destination if you want a raw, natural experience.

The easternmost emirate, it is rich in dramatic landscapes with the soaring Hajar Mountains tumbling down to its opalescent beaches along the coast of the Gulf of Oman. The only emirate bordering this Gulf, it makes for an easy pairing with a trip to Oman.

Known for its outdoor adventures, Fujairah is ideal if you’re looking for mountain experiences like trekking, rock climbing, or paragliding, or want to snorkel and scuba dive along the coast. Archaeological sites here have revealed trading links dating back over 4,000 years, and the region’s historical forts, time-worn watch towers, and ornate mosques are among the oldest in the UAE.

Fujairah City

Fujairah’s capital city is home to some of the oldest historical sites in the UAE. One of the largest forts in the country, Fujairah Fort dates to the 16th century and is surrounded by a heritage village replicating traditional Emirati life with reconstructed houses and interactive exhibits. Meanwhile, 15th-century Al Bidya Mosque is the oldest in the UAE, offering glimpses into early Islamic architecture with its mud and stone construction. A visit here makes a fascinating comparison with the vast Ottoman-style Sheikh Zayed Mosque. When you’ve had your fill of history, days spent on the pristine beaches drift into evenings strolling through the Corniche’s cafes in this relaxed city.

Bountiful beaches

In a refreshing contrast to the more commercial coastlines of the western emirates, the beaches of Fujairah offer a slower pace, with a laid-back atmosphere and excellent opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and water sports. Backed by the Hajar Mountains and fronting onto the Gulf of Oman, they’re a picturesque spectacle with pristinely clear waters abundant with reef fish. In Fujairah City, Al Aqah Beach has soft sand and views across to offshore Snoopy Island, which you can reach by swimming or kayaking. Meanwhile, the beaches surrounding Dibba are quieter and less developed — a great choice for picnics and dhow cruises.

Nature reserve

The Wadi Wurayah National Park is the UAE’s first designated protected area and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, covering 20% of the entire landmass in Fujairah. It’s a biodiversity hotspot of freshwater pools, streams, and waterfalls in an otherwise arid region, and it plays a crucial role in preserving the fragile ecosystem. Rare wildlife, such as the critically endangered Arabian tahr, the caracal, and Blandford’s fox, can be found here alongside over 100 species of bird, including the Omani owl. There are a small number of hiking routes and plenty of wildlife-watching opportunities within the reserve too.

Marine conservation areas

The waters off the coast of Fujairah, particularly around Snoopy Island and Dibba Rock, are part of marine conservation efforts aimed at protecting the region’s coral reefs and marine biodiversity. The translucent Gulf waters are rich in corals, sea turtles, reef fish, and occasional reef sharks, making them a renowned spot for scuba diving and snorkeling. Nesting sites for turtles abound on the quieter beaches, especially for hawksbill and green turtles, and access to these sites is limited during the breeding season.

Hajar Mountains

Stretching between the UAE and Oman, the Hajar Mountains rise dramatically from Fujairah’s coastal plains. They reach their highest peak at Jebel Jais, which is the tallest in the UAE at 1,934 m (6,345 ft). The mountains are a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers, their jagged peaks interspersed with deep wadis (valleys), traditional villages, and rare wildlife. Hiking trails stretch out across the range, with rock climbing and paragliding opportunities on the increase, together with plenty of opportunities to explore the natural rock pools. Look out for wild goats, foxes, and native birds among the dramatic rock formations.

Best time to visit Fujairah

We recommend visiting Fujairah between October and April, when the weather is mild and sunny. This season is well-suited for hiking and beach activities, with sea conditions ideal for snorkeling, scuba diving, and kayaking. The cooler mountain air in the Hajar range also makes adventures here more enjoyable during this time. Temperatures soar from May to September, with high humidity, making outdoor activities uncomfortable.