Most things to do in Fujairah revolve around the sea and the mountains, and that is exactly why people make the drive. Fujairah is the only emirate that lies almost entirely on the Gulf of Oman, on the UAE’s east coast, with the rugged Hajar Mountains rising straight behind its beaches. The water is clearer, the coral reefs are livelier and the pace is slower than on the Gulf side, so it is the UAE’s go-to destination for snorkelling, diving, wadi walks and quiet beach weekends. Here is how we would spend a visit.
Fujairah city is typically around one and a half to two hours’ drive from Dubai, crossing the mountains on the Sheikh Khalifa Highway (E89), which cuts through tunnels and dramatic rocky scenery. Dibba and Al Aqah in the north are a similar distance via the Masafi road. The best season runs from October to April, when the beaches are comfortably warm and mountain walks are possible. Summer is hot and humid, but sea conditions are often calm, so many divers keep visiting, heading out early and spending the afternoon indoors. Fujairah also tends to see a little more rain in winter than the west coast, which brings the wadis to life.
The east coast has the best underwater life in the country. Snoopy Island, a small rocky outcrop off the beach at Al Aqah whose outline is said to resemble the cartoon beagle lying on his back, is the classic snorkelling spot, with reef fish, turtles and occasionally small reef sharks. Several beach resorts along this stretch run dive centres with courses for beginners and boat trips for qualified divers. Further north, Dibba is famous for traditional dhow cruises along the fjord-like coast of the Musandam peninsula, with swimming, snorkelling and lunch on board, and dolphins are sometimes spotted. Note that many Dibba cruises cross into Oman, so carry your passport and check visa rules with the operator.
Al Bidyah Mosque, a small stone and mud-brick mosque on the coast road north of Khor Fakkan, is widely regarded as the oldest mosque still in use in the UAE, with watchtowers on the hillside behind offering lovely views. Visitors are welcome outside prayer times if they dress modestly. In the city, Fujairah Fort is one of the oldest and largest forts in the country, set beside a heritage village that recreates traditional farming and fishing life. The Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Fujairah, with its white domes and tall minarets, is the second-largest mosque in the UAE and is beautiful after dark. Inland, the restored Al Hayl Fort sits in a quiet mountain valley and makes a good short stop. For more culture, browse our art and culture listings.
Fujairah’s mountains hide some of the UAE’s best wadis, rocky valleys that can hold freshwater pools after rain. Wadi Wurayah, now a UNESCO World Heritage site and the country’s first recognised for its natural value, protects a rare permanent waterfall and wildlife such as the Arabian tahr. Access is limited to organised guided tours in the hiking season, so book ahead through the official operator rather than turning up. Elsewhere, scenic drives through the Hajar Mountains suit a 4x4, and the Fujairah Adventure Park has trails for hiking and mountain biking. Never enter a wadi when rain is forecast, as flash floods can happen quickly.
Fujairah keeps some traditions you will not find in Dubai. Bull butting, where two bulls push head to head until one backs away, is traditionally held on Friday afternoons in an open field near the coast and draws a crowd of local spectators. On the drive from Dubai, the roadside Friday Market on the Masafi road is a popular stop for fruit, plants, carpets and pottery, despite its name usually open every day. Masafi itself is known for its spring water and mountain setting. If you want to explore these traditions with a guide, our attractions page lists tours and experiences.
Fujairah’s coast between Dibba and Fujairah city is lined with beach resorts, many with sheltered bays, kids’ clubs and water sports, which makes it a favourite for long weekends and school holidays. The beaches are generally calm in the morning, the views of the mountains are spectacular at sunrise, and the overall mood is relaxed. Alcohol is available in licensed hotels. Swimwear is fine at resorts, but dress modestly in towns, markets and mosques. Our kids and family events page has more ideas for children across the UAE.
Sharjah’s Khor Fakkan and Kalba sit within the same stretch of coast, so it is easy to add a beach or waterfront stop, see our Sharjah guide. Or loop back west over the mountains via Ras Al Khaimah, see our Ras Al Khaimah guide, for ziplines on Jebel Jais. For more weekend inspiration, see things to do this weekend. Buy dive trips and tours from official sellers; every listing on this page links to the official booking page.
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Snoopy Island, off the beach at Al Aqah on Fujairah’s north coast, is the best-known snorkelling spot in the UAE, with coral, reef fish and turtles close to shore. Many nearby resorts rent equipment and run guided snorkel and dive trips. Visibility is usually best on calm mornings, and the Gulf of Oman stays warm enough for snorkelling most of the year.
Often yes, because many dhow cruises from Dibba sail into the Musandam waters of Oman, so you may need your passport and the correct visa or entry permission. Some operators sail only in UAE waters, in which case a valid UAE ID may be enough. Always confirm the route and document rules with your operator before booking, and carry your passport to be safe.
Yes, Al Bidyah Mosque, on the coast road north of Khor Fakkan, welcomes visitors outside prayer times, and it is widely regarded as the oldest mosque still in use in the UAE. Dress modestly, with arms and legs covered, and women should bring a scarf for their hair. Remove shoes before entering, and climb the hillside watchtowers behind the mosque for sea views.
Wadi Wurayah can only be visited on organised guided tours, which run in the hiking season and must be booked in advance through the official operator, Fujairah Holidays. The reserve, now a UNESCO World Heritage site, protects the UAE’s only permanent waterfall and rare wildlife such as the Arabian tahr. Places are limited, so book early and follow all guide instructions.
Yes, for divers and resort lovers, though summer in Fujairah is hot and humid, with daytime temperatures often near 40°C from June to September. The sea is usually calm and warm, which suits snorkelling and diving in the early morning. Spend afternoons at your resort pool or indoors, avoid wadi hikes in the heat, and never enter wadis when rain is forecast.
The Friday Market is a long row of roadside stalls on the Masafi road, between Dhaid and Masafi, on the drive from Dubai to the east coast. Despite its name, it is usually open every day, selling fresh fruit, plants, pottery, carpets and souvenirs. It is a good place for a break on the journey, and haggling politely is normal. Bring cash for smaller stalls.
Bull butting is traditionally held on Friday afternoons in an open area near the coast in Fujairah, when local owners bring their bulls to push head to head until one backs off. It is a community gathering rather than a ticketed show, and timings are informal. Ask locally or at your hotel for the current spot, keep a safe distance and dress modestly.
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