Top 10 Attractions in Khorfakkan
Khorfakkan is a city located along the coast of the Arabian Gulf and is considered one of the UAE's main ports. The city is surrounded by towering mountains that protect it from winds and sandstorms. It’s known for its gardens, which serve as a source of fresh air for the city, as well as its sandy shores and stunning beaches that glow with the blue of the sea and the green of the surrounding nature. Khorfakkan is also home to many cultural and historical landmarks, including beautiful old mosques and museums, some of which we introduce to you in this article.
1. Khorfakkan Beach
We begin our tour with Khorfakkan Beach. This 3-kilometer-long, crescent-shaped beach is one of the most popular tourist spots in the city. Families, groups, and tourists alike flock here to relax, enjoy the view of the blue waves, and let their children play in designated play areas.
Others come to walk alongside the palm trees that line the beach. Swimming and sunbathing enthusiasts will also find soft sand and warm sun waiting for them. Additionally, the beach offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking, surfing, and diving.
2. Khorfakkan Corniche
We continued our tour to a nearby destination, the Khorfakkan Corniche. Considered the vibrant heart of the city, the corniche is equipped with modern and comprehensive facilities, ensuring visitors have an enjoyable time. It features a central plaza and large parking areas that make it easy to find a spot for your car.
The corniche also includes an open-air theatre that hosts various events throughout the year. In addition, there’s a park with public amenities, restaurants, shops, playgrounds, and paths for walking and cycling, all set within expansive green spaces.
3. Al Rafisah Dam
After a short drive along the Sharjah Road, right in the heart of Khorfakkan, we reached our next destination: Al Rafisah Dam. As the largest dam in the eastern region of the UAE, it has become one of the most popular tourist spots for visitors. The area is known for its stunning natural scenery, set against majestic mountain backdrops, along with the vast reservoir lake.
There’s a 730-meter mountain-edge walkway and a 55-meter-long artificial waterfall. The dam also includes a rest area with restaurants, a supermarket, a mosque, and other public facilities.
4. Shark Island
We boarded a small boat to reach our next destination, an island located off the eastern coast of the Emirate of Sharjah. We arrived at Shark Island, named for the many deep, dark lagoons in the area. In the past, the island was used for animal quarantine and maritime storage.
Today, the island boasts a unique marine ecosystem and a charming sandy beach, making it an ideal spot for water sports such as surfing and water skiing. You can also rent diving gear from beachside huts and set off on an exciting underwater adventure. As you dive into the depths of the ocean, you’ll encounter vibrant fish species, coral reefs, and sea turtles. It’s truly an adventure worth experiencing.
5. Khorfakkan Amphitheatre
We returned to the mainland, specifically to Khorfakkan Beach, and walked to our next stop: the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre. This site is one of the city's most iconic cultural and artistic landmarks. Built on the mountainside, the amphitheatre spans a total area of 190,000 square feet and can accommodate over 35,000 spectators.
It's a modern architectural marvel inspired by Roman design. Equipped with advanced technical systems and a state-of-the-art cooling system, the amphitheatre is suitable for visits year-round. The outdoor plazas surrounding the venue add to its unique aesthetic, featuring beautiful decorative elements. Thanks to its elevated location, visitors can also enjoy stunning panoramic views of the city from the amphitheatre.
6. Shees Park
Our next destination was Shees Park in Khorfakkan, which stands out among Sharjah’s parks due to its stunning natural surroundings and dramatic mountain backdrop. It offers a perfect opportunity for visitors to explore and enjoy a mountainous landscape.
Spanning 11,362 square meters, the newly developed Shees Park features a 25-meter-high artificial waterfall that flows into a lake surrounded by stone walkways and seating areas carved from rock formations. The park also provides high-quality public amenities including restrooms and ample parking space.
Operating hours: 08:00 – 23:00
7. Wadi Al Wurayah
We then headed to Wadi Al Wurayah, a natural reserve that spans an area of 220 square kilometers. It’s known for its rich biodiversity, with an array of fascinating plant and animal species, as well as its breathtaking scenery, including waterfalls, lush greenery, and natural freshwater springs.
Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities at Wadi Al Wurayah, such as observing the wildlife that inhabits the area, mountain climbing, camping, and exploring the forests and green landscapes. It’s also the perfect spot for an outdoor meal, surrounded by the beauty of nature, whether with family or friends.
8. Al Metalaa Park
No trip to Khorfakkan is complete without a visit to Al Metalaa Park, located near Khorfakkan Beach. It’s considered one of the most beautiful tourist spots in the city, attracting nature lovers and visitors who enjoy scenic views and tranquil environments. The park offers stunning vistas of the Gulf of Oman and is a great place for leisurely strolls and fresh air.
Visitors can wander through tall trees, green lawns, and charming ponds. The park also features comfortable seating areas, perfect for relaxing while taking in the panoramic views.
Operating hours: 06:00 – 13:00, 16:00 – 22:00
9. Khorfakkan Square
Next, we arrived at Khorfakkan Square, known for its expansive green gardens and stunning fountains. The towering UAE flagpole was inaugurated here in 2014, coinciding with the country's 43rd National Day celebrations.
Visitors can enjoy the square either by driving around it or relaxing on one of the many benches scattered throughout, taking in the beautiful surroundings. One of the square’s highlights is the majestic giant incense burner standing proudly at its center, a symbol of traditional Arab hospitality.
This peaceful and scenic location is perfect for family outings, with a magnificent fountain and designated barbecue areas.
10. Salem Al Mutawa Mosque
We concluded our tour of Khorfakkan, located near many attractions in Fujairah, with a visit to one of the city’s most iconic landmarks: Salem Al Mutawa Mosque. This mosque holds a special place in the hearts of Khorfakkan’s residents and is considered the oldest in the city, with its construction dating back over 500 years.
Due to its historical significance, the mosque’s image is featured on the UAE’s five-dirham banknote. Every corner of the mosque exudes a sense of heritage and grandeur, with its traditional wooden ceiling, authentic Arab-style gateway, and a humble minaret standing just a few meters tall.
In conclusion, if you're planning a visit to Khorfakkan and want to explore its beautiful attractions, don’t miss out on the special offers on WINGIE, to find the cheapest flights to Khorfakkan.
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