Heritage Village - The village is situated in the middle of Abu Dhabi and is a living exhibition of the lifestyle and traditions of Bedouin and other culture's.
Hili Gardens - Impressive ancient tombs, some more than 4000 years old, is of interest here.
Liwa Oasis - About two hours drive from the city of Abu Dhabi is Liwa, one of the largest oasis in Arabia and a gateway to Rub Al Khali or Empty Quarter. The place makes a refreshing change with freshwater pools and date plantations. It is also home to the Bedu people, known for their hospitality.
Jabel Hafit - Close to Al Ain, is this craggy mountain rising steeply from the surrounding desert. An area noted for its flora and fauna (it is one of the last remaining habitats of the rare Arabian tahr), the mountain can be accessed by excellent roads which wind its way right upto the summit, providing a panaromic view of the Empty Quarter. Also of interest are the numerous caves, sites of archaeological excavations, and Ain Al Fayda, a top health resort located over a natural hot spring.
Al Ain Museum - Location within the confines of Al Jahili fort, the nation's largest museum is divided into ethnological and historical sections. Interesting displays include Bedouin artifacts, archaeological excavations of 2700 BC, 500 BC stone instruments and relics dug up from Fossil Valley.
Al Ain Zoo and Aquarium - The 1969 zoo houses an extremely large and varied collection of wildlife from all over the world. The zoo is also well know for its display of Arabia's indigenous wildlife which includes the spectacular Arabian oryx.
Qattarah Oasis - This small, beautiful sylvan oasis studded with date palms and fruit orchards and located on the edge of Al Ain is noted for its archaeological sites. Some of the ancient relics found here, including beautiful gold jewellery, have been displayed today in the Al Ain museum.
The Cultural Foundation - Located in the Khalidiya Street, the foundation houses a weekly art exhibition, library, theatre auditorium, and lecture rooms. The centre is considered as the cultural heartbeat of the city.
The Corniche - A park-lined coastal boulevard that skirts the city, with a backdrop of modern buildings facing the sea, it is one of the most picturesque sites in Abu Dhabi.
Dubai
A trip to the Dubai museum will give you a glimpse into Dubai's fascinating past. You can also visit Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum's house to view a collection of old photographs. The heritage and diving village at Dubai is a must see for all traditional arts and crafts lovers.
A one-and-a-half hour drive along east Dubai's road leads to Hatta. This pleasantly green valley is a small enclave in the dramatic, arid Hajar Mountains and is completely surrounded by land belonging to Oman, Ajman and Ras al-Khaimah. Here, the charming Hatta Fort Hotel with its beautiful gardens give a warm welcome to visitors.
Nearer to Dubai, and only about 20 kilometers inland, are the twin oases of Khawanij and Awir. These oases can be reached in 25 minutes from the town center. They have been extensively developed over the past 20 years and boast fine country houses with superb gardens for some of Dubai's leading families.
Dhows
Boat racing has cultural and historical significance in Dubai with its roots in dhow (traditional wooden trading vessels) racing, which still takes place today, especially on government holidays such as the UAE National Day on December 2. It is considered as one of the most spectacular and graceful of sports, the traditional dhow sailing witnesses more than 80 traditional boats take to the clear blue waters surrounding the DIMC in precisely the same manner as it was done in the ancient past. Adhering to age-old tradition, the hulls are varnished teak wood with billowing white sails made from canvas. The three different racing categories here include 60ft, 43ft and 22ft.
Participate in the Dhow racing which takes place throughout the winter months and well into the summer. Racing usually takes place off the coast of Mina Seyahi from 2 pm on a Thursday or Friday.
For a glimpse of Dubai's fishing-village roots, wander the Jaddaf district and watch local craftsman hand-carving dhows.
Bastakiya
Al Bastakia Area in Bur Dubai dates back to the early 1900s, and occupies the eastern section of the old town along the Creek, extending to a length of 300 meters, and depth of 200 meters in the southern direction. This area represents an important area in the history of architecture, and the urban development of town. The masons, who constructed the building, have left a permanent mark on the town's heritage.
To the east of Al Fahidi Fort is the largest concentration of traditional courtyard houses within wind towers. In the past, the city was famous for a mass of wind towers which lined the creek on either side. These were not merely decorative but served as the only means of cooling houses in pre-electricity days.
Jumairah Mosque
One of the largest and most beautiful mosques is the Jumairah Mosque. It is a spectacular example of modern Islamic architecture and is built of stone in medieval Fatimid tradition, the mosque is a city landmark in Dubai. It is particularly attractive at night when subtle lighting throws it artistry into relief.
You can book an organized tour that is held every Thursday and Sunday.
Souks
'Souk' is the Arabic word for market or place where any kind of goods are brought or exchanged. Traditionally, dhows from the Far East, China, Ceylon and India would discharge their cargos and the goods would be bargained over in the souks adjacent to the docks.
You can find the wonders of aromatic spices and the beauty of hand-crafted gold through the labyrinth of narrow winding alleys on the Deira side of the creek. In the spice souk you will find perfumes, incense, and delicious foods piled in sacks awaiting your attention. Walk a bit further toward the gold souk and you will be dazzled by the glittering displays in each shop window. Choose from gold necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and you can even design your very own jewelry.
At the Perfume Souk you will literally find thousands of aromas, and if you can't find the one that you want, shopkeepers would be able to conjure up a unique concoction that suits your tastes exactly.
You will find the antique market near the souks where you can buy coffee pots, Arabian chests, daggers, Bedu jewelry and carvings at excellent prices. If interested in buying textiles or silk, head for Cosmos Lane in Bur Dubai or the streets of Satwa, where numerous shops sell a vast array of colorful fabrics.
Tip: There is a guided jewellery tour at the Gold and diamond park for 30 minutes. The tour is for free and you can call 04 3477788 for more details.
Wonder Bus
This luxurious amphibious bus is brand new state of the art vehicle and is approved by US coast guard and Emirates Marine Services Dubai. The total number of passenger capacity is 44. The bus takes you around the beautiful city sights and entertains you to wonderful sceneries of the classy past and the modern present of Dubai.
Open Top Bus
The Big Bus aims to give you the most enjoyable and memorable experience of your life in Dubai. From the towering sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel to the mysterious gold and spice souks, what better way to see Dubai's breathtaking views? So, hop onto the big red double decker bus for a quick tour of Dubai's main attractions starting and finishing at Wafi City.
Cable Car
Another arial view of Dubai would be to take the cable car ride that runs the 2.3km length of Creekside Park (between the Creek's two bridges) in under half an hour. Suspended 30 metres in the air, you can see for miles in each direction.
Twelve cable cars traverse the Creek Park affording a view of the creek area from 25 meters above ground.
The cable car system spans 4,200 meters from the park's amphitheatre to Al Maktoum Bridge. Three stations have been set up where passengers can be picked up. Each car accommodates up to four passengers. A private company has been commissioned to operate the project.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah
The souk is a colorful and vibrant market or part of a market in an Arabian city. Lively trading culture, animated, interactive - this defines Souk Madinat Jumeirah .
Meandering paths lead visitors through a bazaar-like atmosphere in which open fronted shops and intimate galleries spill onto the paved walkways. The sounds of craftsmen and women at work mingle with the aroma from street cafes and boutique restaurants. Souk Madinat is exclusively known for the unique brands, crafted quality and an interactive experience.
Shopping
Dubai is labeled as the "shopping capital of the Middle East". With so many shopping malls and souks, there's no better place to find products at unbeatable prices. It is truly a duty free shopper's paradise that gives you more for your money. Dubai's numerous shopping malls cater to every consumer need. Cars, haute couture clothing, jewellery, electronics, furnishing, sporting equipment, and any other goods will likely all be under the same roof.
Ibn Battuta Mall
Ibn Battuta Mall, a Nakheel Project, was conceived to celebrate Dubai's increasing role as one of the world's top shopping destinations. Located adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Road between interchanges 5 and 6, the Mall combines retail, entertainment, restaurants and family activities all within a uniquely themed environment that is designed to reflect the unique combination of various heritages and cosmopolitan lifestyle that is the very essence of Dubai.
Burj Al Arab
Burj Al Arab is a part of The Jumeirah Beach Resort, situated 17km south of the city of Dubai. It is designed to resemble a billowing sail; the hotel soars to a height of 321 metres, dominating the Dubai coastline. At night, it offers an unforgettable sight, surrounded by choreographed color sculptures of water and fire. This all-suite hotel reflects the finest that the world has to offer.
You can take a two minute submarine ride to the Al Mahara seafood restaurant and catch a hearty meal.
Scenic Flying
Take an aerial tour of Dubai. Helicopters and plane tours offer a bird's eye view of the city and operate throughout the year. Prices start from Dhs. 250 for a 45 minute to 1 hour flight.
See the countryside in a Hot Air Balloon as you have never seen it before. A flight in a Hot Air Balloon gives you the power of the winds. You can fly high above the haze or skim the sand dunes, float on a gentle breeze or ride with a cloud.
Water Delights
There is plenty to see and do water wise in Dubai. The Dubai International Marine Club has been the driving force behind the growth of national and international water sport events in the Middle East.
Dubai International Boat Show, the largest marine industry exhibition in the Middle East, is a classic showcase of yachts and boats from both local and international builders together with the latest innovations in marine equipment and accessories. Apart from this there is parasailing, snorkeling, diving and surfing at the beach.
Wild Wadi
Located next to the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Wild Wadi offers thrill-seekers and families hours of fun at one of the world's most advanced water theme parks. Featuring the tallest and fastest water speed rides outside North America, other attractions include Log River, Ring Ride, Flood River, Wave Pool, Flow Rides, Lazy River and much more. Check opening timings and discounted 'sundowner' rates as these vary from month to month.
Fun & Games
Located just off the Garhoud Bridge, Wonderland is a family fun park that caters to all ages. Attractions include numerous water rides and slides, roller coasters, a log flume, bumper boats, games of skill and a nightly water mist show.
You can also spend your day with the little ones at the encounter zone at Wafi mall which has the popular crystal maze, horror chamber and fascinating 3D films.
Desert Safari
Trips to the desert can be a great way to explore the sandy expanses and safaris are generally half day and can include an overnight stay in Bedouin tents.
Wadi bashing , a popular amusement with both residents and visitors is all about exploring the wadis or dry beds of streams that flow after the winter rains from the Hajar Mountains. Many wadis offer scenes of unexpected beauty like attractive rock pools, some with water year-round, surrounded by greenery.
Driving in sand is an exciting activity. It is an adventure in itself which combines the excitement of a rollercoaster ride with the challenge of remaining mobile on the shifting surface.
Golf Courses
Even for the non-golfer, Dubai's golf clubs are worth a visit, both for the spectacular architecture of their clubhouses and as examples of the successful greening and landscaping of the desert.
More than one visitor has mistaken the lush greens and freshwater lakes of the Emirates Golf Club and Dubai Creek Golf Club for a desert mirage. Man-made oasis of rolling green fairways, bunkers and lakes materialize miraculously from a desert haze with superbly designed clubhouses as their epicenters.
Dubai Zoo
Dubai Zoo is the oldest zoo of its kind not only in the United Arab Emirates but also in the Arabian Peninsula. Dubai Zoo also happens to be the first Arabian zoo to breed the rare Chimpanzee and Arabian wild cat. It is a special place of interest and fun for tourists and residents of Dubai.
H. H. Sheikh Rashid bin Maktoum, the late Ruler of Dubai, permitted Otto J. Bulart to build the Zoo on a two hectare plot in Jumeirah. The Dubai Zoo became a landmark as it indicated the "town's end". Timings of the zoo are as follows: Open 10am to 6:30pm, Wednesday to Monday.
Camel Racing
Camel-racing, a traditional sport, is extremely popular in the Emirates. It was originally staged in an informal setting, at weddings or special festivals, but now customized tracks have been built throughout the country where race meetings are held in the winter months from October to April, culminating in the annual camel race festival at Al Wathba which attracts entrants from all over the world.
Sheikh Zayed's sponsorship of the Zayed Grand Prize camel races, also held at Al Wathba racetrack to celebrate UAE National Day, is an indication of the special focus and encouragement given to the revival of heritage sports and camel-racing festivals as an occasion for the gathering of UAE citizens.
Dubai Horse Racing
The World famous Dubai world cup is held in Dubai annually at the Nad Al Sheba club which boasts of a 2000- metre turf course. The evening features the Dubai World Cup, the world's richest horse race, supported by the UAE Derby and the Dubai Kahayla Classic for Purebred Arabians. The Dubai Duty Free, Dubai Sheema Classic, Dubai Golden Shaheen and Godolphin Mile complete a night of history. This is also a rare opportunity for ladies to wear hats to the occasion.
Dubai Autodrome
Dubai Autodrome is the first fully integrated automotive and motor sports facility in the Middle East region, incorporating a world class FIA sanctioned 5.39 km motor racing track, international standard pit lane complex with a "state-of-the-art" grandstand accommodating over 7,000 spectators as well as providing modern hospitality suites for corporate customers.
Providing a "real home" for the automotive industry in the Gulf with a comprehensive business park being developed around the racetrack, it will also feature an international and local racing calendar will be established on the Autodrome to include Single Seater Racing, Touring Cars, Motor Bikes, Sports Cars and Karting.
Dragon Mart
Dragon Mart, the largest trading hub for products from China being developed outside the Chinese mainland, is taking its final shape at the International City development of Nakheel, in the Al Warsan area in Dubai. The 1.2 km long dragon shaped structure is a permanent exhibition space comprising showrooms and business facilities including: post offices, meeting and negotiation rooms, full commercial and general services and will assemble the most exhaustive collection of Chinese products under one roof. The project is also a realisation of the longstanding relationship between the Chinese government, the expatriate Chinese community and the UAE.
Knowledge Village
Dubai Knowledge Village (KV) is a vibrant, connected learning community that will develop the region's talent pool and accelerate its move to the knowledge economy. KV was set up to develop Dubai into a destination for education for both regional and international learners. This new education and training hub is also set up to complement the Free Zones other two clusters: Dubai Internet City and Dubai Media City by providing the facilities to train the clusters' future knowledge workers.
Dubai Knowledge Village provides the infrastructure for developing, sharing and applying knowledge. In addition, Dubai Knowledge Village has expanded to include the mega-campus Dubai Knowledge Universities, the first stage of which will be completed in 2006.
Sharjah
Sharjah's climate is idyllic from November to April with warm sunny days, cool evenings and low humidity. Daytime temperatures range from 18 to 30 degrees C. From May to September the climate is hot with midday temperatures in July and August reaching in excess of 45 degrees C. Even the nights are warm averaging 25 degrees C. Humidity is often at 100% so all in all, it's stifling! Most people head to cooler climates during the summer.
I slamic Museum
The chants of the Holy Quran welcomes you to the air-conditioned lobby of this wonderful museum displaying a fascinating private collection of the Ruler of Sharjah, H H Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qassimi. Of interest is a replica of the curtain which covers the Holy Ka'aba stone in Mecca; rare, comprehensive, gold plated manuscripts; and beautiful works of Arabian art. A quaint attractions is a unique upside down world map, said to be the first, drawn by Sharif Al Idrisi more than a thousand years ago.
Al-Hisn (Fort) Museum
This building, Al-Hisn (Fort) Museum, used to be the residence of the ruling family in Sharjah for about 200 years. It is the home for the beloved memories the Sharjah people inherited generation after another. A social centre and a public forum where citizens used to meet for happy and sad occasions, it became the symbol of their pride as well as their safe resort.
Built by His Highness late Sheikh Sultan bin Saqr Al Qassimi in 1820, it preserved its official as well as public status until 1969, when a part of the house was removed due to the structural changes the city of Sharjah had then undergone. However, the house was rebuilt under the instructions and guidance of His Highness Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qassimi, Member of the Supreme Federal Council, Ruler of Sharjah. Among the exhibits of the Museum is a documentary film displaying the process of the Hisn (Fort) rebuilding. However, the Museum is divided into several sections comprised in two storeys, comprising of various sections including the Al Qassimi Library, a Weapons room and a rest house and VIP room.
Majlis of Ibrahim Mohammed Al Midfa
Located between Souq Al Arsah and the waterfront, it is noted for its noted for its unique round windtower. On display are several small yet interesting items, a personal collection donated by the majlis owner, Al Midfa.
Sharjah Natural History Museum & Desert Park
Approximately 28 kms from Sharjah is the desert park which provides a living showcase of the wonderful world of desert ecology, flora and fauna. The park also contains the state-of-the-art museum which takes you through time, looking at man and his environment, and the fascinating world of the deserts and seas, both past and present. Among the many wonders is a real meteor and a fossilized thigh bone of a dinosaur.
The world's largest captive breeding centre, a haven for the endangered Arabian leopard, is another attraction. The botanical garden exhibits several ecosystems and their flora, including wet wadi and mountain plants.
Other interesting places include the Sharjah Science Museums and Learning Centre, a must for young children; the Archaeological Museum; the Planetarium; the Sharjah Art Museum; and the Art Centre.
Blue Souk
Sharjah's most famous souk was constructed in 1979, a landmark with its design and popularity. Maintained by the Sharjah Municipality, the 600 assorted shops gives you better bargains for goods ranging from gold and precious stones to garments to perfumes and cosmetics. Located at Al Majaz, close to Khalid Lagoon.
For adventure seekers there is ample scope in watersports. Trekkers can hit straight for the rugged mountains, and fresh water streams of Khorfakkan on the east coast or still go into the interiors of this spread out emirate spending some time in a lovely village oasis. And if that's not enough, you can either relax on an unspoilt beach, or simply take a quiet stroll through one of the many outstanding public parks. The options are varied and full of fun.
Ajman
Lying on the coast of the Arabian Gulf, the city comprises the Ruler's office, companies, banks and commercial markets. The port of Ajman is located along a natural creek which penetrates the town. History is evident through the Emirate as in the example of the of the fine old watchtower at the town's entrance, and the large fort in the town's centre.
Dhow Yard
Ajman is noted as the world's largest boat building yard and even more as the biggest dhow building center. Here these ocean-going vessels are built using traditional tools, manual skills with the same techniques that has been handed down throught the generations, all without blueprints. The yard also crafts the speedsters that take part in the Dubai Powerboat meets.
Mowaihat
The archaeological site of Mowaihat is located on the oustkirts of Ajman. At the time of its discovery, the Mowaihat tomb represented the first indication of Umm al-Nar period occupation in the Northern Emirates. Subsequent work has now identified major sites of this period on the Gulf coast at Al Sufouh, Tell Abraq and Shimal. The material from Mowaihat forms the bulk of the archaeological finds on display in the Ajman Museum.
Ajman Museum
This local history and heritage museum is housed in an 18th century fortress, a symbol that reflects the region's rich heritage. On display are treasures of former rulers, and the social ways and traditional professions of the past.
Ra's Al Khaimah
Ra's Al Khaimah has a unique archaeological legacy and archeological excavations and finds in the region have revealed the existence of a settlement with an advanced civilization that carried on trade since 5000 BC. Within its territory, the emirate combines the coast, the fertile agricultural plains, the desert and the mountains. Each of these environments has given rise to different lifestyles: the traders, fishermen and pearl divers of the coast. Ras Al Khaimah is a blessed rich rugged land with lofty mountains, fertile plains, sandy deserts, coastal areas, lush green plains, historical sites, creeks and lagoons all of which call for celebration.
Attractions:
The mountains of RAK, a unique natural feature, rose to a height of 2000 meters. Plenty of pretty wadis traverse through the mountains. Starting from Wadi Buh, these steep sided valleys go towards Masafi and then to a row of wadis like Ghayl, Shawka, Assumes and so on. The terrain is tough, rocky and challenging, calling for some adventurous trekking.
The mangroves that flourish in and around RAK city are an added attraction. These mangroves run northwards along the coast in sheltered inlets and teem with birds and sea life. Considered to be the most fertile emirate, a town close to the main city of RAK, Digdaga, has a very big modern agricultural farm. Fruits, vegetables, milk and poultry are supplied to the other emirates from here. The sea around RAK too abounds in tuna fish. The mountains have enabled the setting up of stone quarries and cement factories.
To the west of Digdaga, the impressive red dunes run in a northerly direction. Camel camps, farms, oasis and beautiful valleys are added values on the desert pass. Nestled in the lee of the mountains in the north of RAK, Shamal has several tombs whose historical background dates back to about 4,500 years ago. The modern village of Shamal houses the palace of the Queen of Sheba.
Leisure and sports:
There is a close relationship between the nature of RAK and the pastimes and activities practiced in the region. The long range of mountains extends as far as the Mossandam peninsula. The Khatts springs oasis is famed for its hot springs of sulphuric water, which has relaxing and therapeutic properties. A lovely tourist attraction surrounded by palm trees, which add to the beauty and charm of the place, the Khatts Springs is also home to almost 170 archeological sites and many tombs. The Khatts Springs Resort is a major tourist attraction.
For ski enthusiasts, the RAK Water Skiing Club is the perfect place. Situated in the area of Khuzam, the club provides all necessary equipment for practicing the pleasant sport of skiing. The Emirates Center for Diving and Water Sports offers the charm of scuba diving in the Arabian Gulf. The RAK Shooting Club, a 20 minutes drive from the RAK Airport has a vast rifle field to test shooting skills.
RAK also has one of the UAE's best camel tracks in the Al Sawan area. A ten-kilometer track, it is equipped with a modern round platform situated at the end of the racetrack. Races are run from the middle of September to the end of April every year. Golfing being another added attraction for tourists; the Tower Links 18-hole Golf course provides challenges for all standards of play.
Umm Al Quwain
The Emirate of Umm Al Quwain is located along the coast of the Arabian Gulf, between Sharjah to the west, and Ras Al Khaimah to the east. Its land spreads towards the interior for a distance of 32 km approximately. The city of Umm Al Quwain is the capital of the emirate, situated on a deep creek one kilomter in width and five kilometers long. It comprises the Ruler's office, companies, establishments, banks, commercial markets, the Seaport and the Research and Pisciculture Centre, which helps to develop fisheries in the country.
The area of Falaj Al Mualla is located 50 km south east of Umm Al Quwain city. The Seneyah Island is located one kilometer away from Umm Al Qiwain city with a total area of 90 Sq km. Umm Al Quwain city has witnessed drastic developments over the last few years including construction of buildings, roads, parks and other amenities. Also the city is linked by a modern network of roads with the typical villages set up for settlement of Bedouins.
Places to see:
The tourist centre is located in the Umm Al Quwain lagoon where the natural green islands provide shelter for several square miles of clean and unpolluted water without the hazard of rough open sea, which is most ideal for water sport and small boat activities.
Falaj Al Mualla
As the name indicates, Falaj Al-Mualla is the Oasis Town which lies in Al Batha Valley and is rich in agriculture. The town is connected with Umm Al Quwain city by an exceptionally scenic road running for much of its length alongside Wadi Al Batha.
Al Dur Island
Located along the coast near Umm Al Quwain is the famous archaeological site with the remains of a once important town of the region dating a little over 2000 years ago. Several interesting objects including impressive tombs, stone houses, large storage jars, and glassware from Egypt and Syria have been unearthed with successive excavations.
Al Siniyyah Island
Across the creek from Umm Al Quwain city lies this island, a haven for birds. The bird sanctuary is also noted for its mangrove swamps, representing an extremely delicate and a fast-dwindling ecosystem.
Dreamland Aqua Park
Sprawling over 250,000 sq mts along the coast is Dreamland, a huge entertainment complex, offering a variety of water games and rides, a souk to take care of your shopping needs, and restaurants and fast-food outlets to satiate your growing appetite, an ideal family destination.
Umm Al Quwain Marine Club
Located on the shores of the creek provides facilities for wind surfing, water skiing and sailing. The Emirate has also the finest horse riding club linked to a marina, where Equestrian events are held each winter.
Finally, as is the case with other Emirates, camels are treasured and camel racing is held in Al Labsa, one of the UAE's most attractive race tracks, located on the road to the Falaj Al Mualla, near the banks of the valley. The Emirate is also famous for hawks and falcons.
Fujairah
Lying in the south-eastern corner of the Arabian peninsula, Fujairah is the only emirate located on the Gulf of Oman rather than the Arabian Gulf. Unlike other desert emirates, Fujairah has the distinction of being a narrow coastal strip at the edge of its mountainous terrain. This makes the emirates naturally endowed with scenic beauty. The important resort area of Khorfakkan has excellent beaches and watersport facilities.
Against this the majestic Hajar mountains forming a magnificent backdrop provides a magical postcard picture effect. Para-gliding, windsurfing, water-skiing, and jet-skiing are excellent pastimes. You can also share the thrills of some of the best deep-sea fishing.
The unexploited jewel of Arabia is a destination waiting to be discovered. Nestling on the shores of the Indian Ocean, on the eastern coast, Fujairah offers miles of unspoilt sandy beaches, a sparkling azure sea and year round sunshine.
Ain Al Madhab Gardens
These gardens are situated in a valley in the foothills of the Hajar mountains, just outside Fujairah City, and are fed by mineral springs. This warm sulphur laden water is also used in two swimming pools available for ladies and for men. On public holidays, an outdoor theatre is used for festivals, which include traditional singing and folklore dances. The opening times are 10 am to 11 pm (closed Saturday).
Fujairah Heritage Village
It is close to the Ain Madhab gardens, and portrays the traditional life of the people of the Emirates. Exhibits include traditional houses, cooking utensils, farming tools and other items as well as the AlYazrah system used for irrigating fields, which uses a working bull. The village is open all day; every day and entry is free.
Fujairah Museum
It has displays of the traditional way of life and of archaeological artifacts found in excavations throughout the Emirate. Work by local and foreign archaeologists has yielded items dating back to early Bronze Age, over 4500 years ago. Items on display include Bronze and Iron Age weapons and finely painted pottery, delicately carved soapstone vessels and pre-Islamic silver coins. Opening times are 8 am to 1 pm (not Fridays) 4 pm to 6 pm every day except Saturday.
Masafi Friday Market
It is open every day and is situated in between the Hajar Mountains on the main road to Fujairah Town. They sell traditional wares and items include pottery made from Fujairah clay; traditional weaving made from date palm fronds as well as plants and many other items.
Bathna Fort
Bithna village is situated on the main highway to Fujairah Town on the Wadi Ham. The Bithna fort once stood watch over traffic up and down the wadi. This great fort that stands for its strategic importance for hundreds of years guard over the wadi.
Bidiya Mosque
Bidiya Mosque is the UAE's oldest place of worship, and is known as the "Ottoman Mosque". It is unique in design with four small domes held up by a massive central pillar. Climb the hill to see the two small watchtowers and view the small farms with mountains in the background.
Wadi Alwarriyah & Waterfalls
The turn off to the waterfalls is located on the road to Dibba from Khorfakkan. Follow the road until it meets a turn off sign up into the wadi. Water can be found flowing throughout the year, with little pools and streams and the waterfalls.
Bull Fighting
One major attraction in Fujairah is the chance to see the Emirate's own unique form of bull fighting-not a struggle to the death of man against beast but a contest of strength between two great animals. The fight itself is bloodless, as the bulls lock horns and wrestle until the weaker of the two gives up and turns away. The bull fights take place every Friday afternoon at about 4:30 pm ( except for the summer months) near the Al Rughlait bridge .
