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A narrow canvas winds between the mountains, occasionally settlements come across along the road, passing through which it seems that time has stopped here.
And only large pylons of power lines return to the reality of today.
Quite unexpectedly, an unrealistically beautiful picture of the coast of the Indian Ocean appears from behind the mountains!
Stony mountains, sometimes seeming completely lifeless, are replaced by an oasis immersed in the greenery of palm trees!
And the climate is different from other emirates. Here it is much more comfortable - there is no such sweltering heat.
Fujairah is the only one of the seven emirates located not on the western, but on the eastern coast of the Ruus al-Jibal peninsula.
Its almost hundred-kilometer strip of sandy coastline is washed by the Gulf of Oman, which opens into the Indian Ocean.
From the north and south, Fujairah borders on the Sultanate of Oman, and from the west on the emirates of Ras al-Khaimah and Sharjah.
Most of the emirate of Fujairah is occupied by a mountain range.
The towering Hajar Mountains with valleys descending directly to the sea, with many ancient forts, fortresses and small caves surround this emirate from all sides, creating a special microclimate and stunning landscapes that do not look like flat and desert Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
From the middle of the 19th century, these lands were part of the emirate of Sharjah, and only in 1952 Fujairah became an independent political structure under the rule of emirs from the Al-Sharjah clan.
Until now, there are three districts of Sharjah in the emirate - Dibba al-Bayya, Khor Fakkan and Kalba.
The Madha enclave is located in the territory of the Sultanate of Oman.
Fujairah joined the UAE in 1971.
The emirate of Fujairah has no oil and gas fields, the economy is based on fishing, agriculture and tourism.
The journey from Dubai to Fujairah takes approximately 2 hours. On the way, you can watch how in a bizarre way the desert landscape is replaced by a mountain one.
By the way, not far from the town of Masafi, where drinking mineral water known throughout the country is produced, there is a market (one of the local tourist attractions) right by the road, where you can buy fruits, vegetables, cheap carpets and various household utensils made of clay and wood. .
Conventionally, the resorts of Fujairah can be divided into 2 parts: the city of Fujairah itself is a small provincial town with a port, and the city of Dibba, located 61 kilometers north of the city of Fujairah, almost on the border with enclave Oman.
It is in the vicinity of Dibba - in the town of Al Aka Beach that the main five-star hotels of the coast are located:,.
Many underestimate the resort of Fujairah due to its remoteness from Dubai. Therefore, I would like to draw attention to the clear advantages that you can get by choosing one of the Fujairah hotels.
Firstly, the beaches of the Gulf of Oman are considered much better than similar beaches located nearby on the coast of the Persian Gulf, here the water is clearer and the picturesque sea view with a boundless horizon (unlike other emirates, where in front of the beaches of the coast there are either all kinds of piers and breakwaters , or bulk islands).
It is on the coast of Fujairah that all the main places for diving are concentrated. Deep-sea fishing is also very popular here.
Secondly, the cost of hotels on the coast of Fujairah is the most democratic in the country, while the level of hotels is very decent! All hotels on the coast have excellent conditions for living, dining and active pastime!
Thirdly, the weather in these places is always a couple of degrees lower than in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, which is a clear advantage in the hot months.
One of the advantages of the mountains is a unique safari opportunity in the most picturesque places - dried up riverbeds - “wadis”.
The most popular place for such safaris can be called Wadi Wurayah, located between the cities of Masafi, Korfakkan and Bidia, covering an area of about 129 sq. km. and protected by the state.
There are about 300 species of plants here, including such rare ones as, for example, the unique Emirati orchid, which grows only in the UAE, and animals such as the Arabian leopard, steppe lynx.
History lovers will appreciate the rich historical heritage of the Emirate of Fujairah.
The oldest mosque in the country - dating back to the 15th century AD. and according to legend, it was built by grateful fishermen who donated a huge pearl caught in local waters.
In the town of Dibba there is an ancient Muslim cemetery, where the warriors who brought Islam here in the 7th century are buried.
Al Batna Fortress, located in the village of Siji, is another historical landmark built in 1735.
In the city of Fujairah there is a museum, which presents a large collection of ethnographic and archaeological finds.
Due to the picturesque landscapes, the gentle sea, a large number of historical values, Fujairah has become a favorite vacation spot not only for foreign tourists, but also for local residents.
For those who dream of diving, but have not yet dared to dive with a mask or scuba gear, a holiday in Fujairah will bring that wish come true.
There are excellent courses for beginners, and the underwater trip to the rock island is completely safe. You will see a variety of exotic fish, starfish and, if you are really lucky, get to know the completely peaceful and safe black reef shark, some of which can reach almost two meters in length!
Amateurs and professionals alike come to the local diving center year after year to enjoy what they love. Various water sports competitions are held here.
Tourism in Fujairah is a young industry, but there is much to offer even sophisticated tourists: all water sports, mountain climbing, exploration of Arab culture, tempting tours of dry riverbeds that fill with water only during rains, as well as comfortable rest in good hotels.
The coral reefs of the emirate are attractive for snorkellers and snorkellers.
Fujairah is famous for its gorgeous sandy beaches, from which you can see the famous rock-island, resembling a dog in shape. At your service are quiet cozy cafes with varied cuisine, small hotels immersed in the greenery of palm trees.
A tour to Fujairah will prove to be suitable for a family holiday, as it is quite quiet and peaceful compared to the larger and noisier resorts. Lovers of peace and tranquility usually come here.
On the coast in winter, you can watch picturesque scenes of fishing with a purse seine. This traditional method of fishing is still very important to the East Coast fishing communities.
Pavel Aksenov Travel Club. UAE. Emirate of Fujairah. Ruletkka Photos - Depositphotos
In the United Arab Emirates, this island is very popular among divers. The water here is very clean, and therefore transparent, which allows you to see the underwater world in all its glory when scuba diving: here you will find colorful flocks of small fish swimming among corals, lobsters, and electric stingrays. Here you can also see octopuses and sea turtles.
Those who do not yet know how to scuba dive should not be upset either, as experienced diving instructors train beginners for a moderate fee.
The depth off the coast ranges from five to thirty meters. The water temperature is more than comfortable - on average it is 25 degrees. The sandy beaches of Shark Island combined with the rocky shores look just great.
Coordinates: 25.35628100,56.36721600
Musandam Peninsula
On the one hand, this peninsula is surrounded by the lands of the United Arab Emirates, and on the other, the legendary Omuz Strait, once famous for its large concentration of pirates. Today, the Musandam Peninsula is called Arabian Norway due to the impressive coastal cliffs, which are located in the form of an ornate labyrinth, which gives a certain resemblance to the Scandinavian fjords. It is difficult to list all the local beauties and attractions: secluded bays with clear turquoise water, grottoes in the rocks, mountain ranges whose peaks are hidden high in the clouds, and many ancient architectural structures such as mosques or ancient citadels. These places are also very popular with divers and fishing enthusiasts - many different types of fish live in the local waters. Souvenir lovers are offered a wide selection of works by local craftsmen: from hand embroidery to beautiful forged iron products. The most favorable time in terms of weather is the autumn-winter period.
Coordinates: 26.04691300,56.24404900
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Fujairah fort
The Fujairah Fort is located in the hills, a few steps from the Castle Road, which runs along the northern side of the emirate. The attraction is a huge ancient fortress. It appeared in the middle of the 16th century. The fort looks like three two-story buildings, which are connected by a wall. They have a conical shape, the top of which is decorated with pyramid-shaped turrets, used earlier as guard posts, as well as shelters during shelling. One of these buildings stands out noticeably for its cubical walls, dotted with small viewing windows. Despite their tiny size, these holes served as both ventilation and lighting.
Fujairah Fort is a unique historical site of the city. Tourists are brought here every time. The fort is carefully watched. More recently, the fortress has been restored.
Coordinates: 25.11666700,56.33333300
Friday Market is located in the UAE along the road in the mountains between Sharjah and Fujairah. It is called the Souq Al Jumaa Market, or Friday Market.
To get to the market, you will have to call a taxi, because there is no public transport in Sharjah at all, the cost will be $ 5.5-15, the time of day will play a big role in the price.
In the market you will find products, exotic sweets, you can also buy souvenirs. Many travelers come for Iranian, Arabic, Afghan and Indian carpets made by their own hands with traditionally beautiful patterns, you can also buy silk carpets, various ceramics, daggers, and jewelry.
Prayers are held from 11 30 to 13 00, and therefore some shops may be closed, despite the fact that the market is called the Friday market, it accepts people from 8 am to 10 pm, seven days a week.
Coordinates: 25.29110000,56.11880000
snoopy island
The area here is exotically beautiful - vast sandy shores and rocks of impressive size wash the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Due to the purity of the local waters and the optimal temperature, Snoopy Island attracts a large number of diving enthusiasts. Those who like to admire underwater beauty - coral reefs, sea turtles and countless unusual fish - are provided with all the conditions for a bright and memorable vacation. There are hotels and cafes, and, of course, there is a diving school. Even a novice diver will be able to learn the most necessary skills in a short time, which will make it possible to experience simply unique sensations from diving near Snoopy Island.
Coordinates: 25.49281100,56.36406500
Ain Al Madhab Gardens
Ain Al Madhab Gardens is a national park with mineral springs, located in the Al Ain Valley at the foot of the mountains.
Two pools (for men and for women) are filled with warm mineral water from springs. It is believed that by plunging into the local water, you can be cured of many diseases.
During the holidays, going to the green theater for a show with traditional Arabic songs and dances, you can feel the spirit of the Arab East.
There are good hotels on the territory of the park for those who wish to undergo a course of treatment in the springs.
In the vicinity of Fujairah, the Al-Bitiya Mosque, the former palace of the Emir of Fujairah, the Al-Kheil fortress, the ancient Dibba, the famous Suk al-Jumaa (“Friday Market”) on the border of Sharjah and Fujairah attract attention.
Divers Down Diving Center
The real professionals and masters of their craft work here, capable of very carefully and clearly presenting the necessary details to a diver of any level, including beginners. Dives take place at different times of the day - both near coastal cliffs and near sunken ships (the latter is of the greatest interest). They will also teach underwater videography. Even children are accepted for education here - there would be money to pay for services. The basic course costs $400, then the price varies depending on your appetite for learning new intricacies and nuances of diving. The first few dives are done in the Oceanic Hotel pool before the instructors entrust you with deep sea excursions. Diving in Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates guarantees a lot of unique experiences: here you will find coral reefs, a wide variety of sea creatures, and sunken ships. That is why the Divers Down Diving Center is very popular among tourists.
Coordinates: 25.40358500,56.34590100
Hot springs of Ain Al-Ghamur
Sources beat throughout the year, but it is better to come here in October-May, when the heat is not so depressing. When approaching hot springs, a strong smell of sulfur is felt, therefore it is not recommended to spend a long time taking baths. Fortunately, the springs are located in the middle of a picturesque park with impressive landscapes.
The most popular attractions in Fujairah with descriptions and photos for every taste. Choose the best places to visit the famous places of Fujairah on our website.
Individual and group
Fujairah (El-Fujairah) is one of the emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, and the only one of them located on the shores not of the Persian Gulf, but of Oman, and in fact already in the Indian Ocean. The name of this area clearly goes back to poetic creativity, since the word "Fujairah" in Arabic means "dawn", and only a creatively gifted person could call a piece of the earth's surface like that. The dawn here is really beautiful, because it is born right in the waves of the bay.
But besides her, in the emirate there is something to please the eye. The whimsically curving coastline stretches for 90 kilometers, and mountains, cut by deep fertile valleys, rise almost close to the water of the bay. Mountainous capes covered with evergreen shrubs protrude far into the sea surface. A narrow strip of flat shore is one endless sandy beach generously flooded with sun. The climate in this place is so warm that even in February the water temperature in the bay does not drop below +23 ° C, and in combination with many mineral springs in mountain valleys and the picturesque beauty of gorges and shallow bays, such natural conditions make El Fujairah extremely attractive for tourists. tourists from all over the world.
Once upon a time, Portuguese colonialists ruled in these places, leaving behind several well-fortified forts built in the 17th century. Now they, however, are in a dilapidated state, but still represent a historical value. The Portuguese were replaced by the British, who colonized the local lands until the middle of the 20th century. El Fujairah became a separate emirate in 1953, and before that its territory was part of neighboring Sharjah. The process of gaining independence turned out to be bloodless and quite civilized, and in general, wars and political upheavals bypassed this paradise. Unlike the neighboring emirates and neighboring Oman, El Fujairah does not have oil fields, but the picturesque terrain, developed agriculture and marine fishing do not allow it to live in poverty against the backdrop of oil relatives and bring not very large, but solid income from the resort and tourism business.
The tourist season in El Fujairah begins in autumn, in October, and ends in spring, in April. From May to September - one continuous summer, and too hot for our northern brother. The official language is Arabic, but many people speak English. In addition, all advertising inscriptions and even road signs are duplicated on it, although this does not bring special dividends: driving in the emirate is left-handed, and international driver's licenses are not recognized here. The local currency is called the dirham, 3.7 dirhams equals 1 US dollar.
Current time in Fujairah:
(UTC+4)
Traveling around the Emirate of Fujairah
All trips within the emirate have to be carried out either by taxi or by a rented car. Road transport is well developed here in all its modifications, fuel prices are fixed at a low level, all the emirates are interconnected by excellent four-lane highways, the main of which, starting in Ash Sham, runs along the entire coast of El Fujairah, turns left and through the desert goes on to Sharjah, Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
A taxi ride around the city costs from 10 to 15 dirhams, it is better to choose cars of a state company, noticeable by the sand color of the body, since in the cabin of such cars there are meters, air conditioning (however, it is available in absolutely any car in the UAE), and a driver dressed in uniform must know English.
Car rental is possible with a driver's license, and this pleasure costs about 200 dirhams per day. The layout of El Fujairah is so simple and convenient that it is simply impossible to go “in the wrong place”. The three main streets, named after local sheikhs, run parallel to each other along the coastline, and smaller streets cross them at right angles, so orientation problems usually do not arise. Driving in a circle has specific features: a person entering a circle must skip the entire flow on the left and be the last to join, and when leaving the circle, he already has an advantage. Drunk driving in Fujairah ends up in jail.
The emirate's air transport is focused entirely on international travel, and this is not surprising, since Sharjah and Dubai are only three hours away by car and there is no need to use aircraft on domestic flights. Fujairah Airport, like the rest of the airports in the UAE, is very modern, well-maintained and equipped by the national airline Emirates with maximum amenities for passengers, including carpeted floors, plasma panels for viewing satellite TV channels in every room, massage chairs and showers.
Well-developed in Fujairah and water and sea transport, however, its own fleet is small and focused mainly on cruise tours. There is no inland waterway between the ports of the emirates, and foreign sea freight is carried out on leased ships of foreign companies. Nevertheless, the port of El Fujairah has a good cargo turnover and good prospects for further development, given the unstable political situation in the Persian Gulf states.
Districts
The capital of the emirate of Fujairah bears the same name as itself - El Fujairah. Europeans often call it Fujairah incorrectly, but, oddly enough, in this version, both the emirate and its capital are better known among tour operators than in the original.
The city is small, with a little more than 50 thousand inhabitants, but exceptionally conveniently located in a cozy bay of the Gulf of Oman, which is why the local seaport is well developed and has a good cargo turnover. There is also a modern airport that receives aircraft from many international airlines.
The city itself is very bright, with wide streets and a European building layout. There is nothing typically Islamic in its architecture: high-rise buildings, paved streets, a long boulevard full of greenery along the coast, dotted with calm and cozy seaside hotels with pleasant design and excellent service.
Numerous companies along the bay organize very high quality diving and snorkelling, and many Mediterranean companies can envy their equipment.
In winter, the slopes of the Hajar mountain range, which comes close to El Fujairah, are colored with bright colors of flowering shrubs, against which the ruins of the Portuguese fort and the dilapidated buildings of the Old City surrounding it look very exotic and colorful. This part of the capital is non-residential, it is entirely a historical monument of the 17th century, on the territory of which archaeological excavations are regularly carried out, and the exhibits found as a result occupy a place on the stands of the capital's museum of antiquities.
What to see in the Emirate of Fujairah
The emirate is not as rich in sights as the ancient European cities, but here, lovers of various types of outdoor activities will be able to find something to their taste. The main aesthetic value in Fujairah is the marine area with its rich underwater flora and fauna, small cozy bays and bays, rocky capes with steep coasts and underwater caves. In a word, a real paradise for scuba diving enthusiasts.
For those interested in antiquity, right in the center of the capital are the picturesque ruins of the Portuguese fort built in 1670, and around it are the dilapidated buildings of the Old City. 12 km to the southwest is another later built fort - El Heil, which is a real medieval castle. Until the middle of the last century, the residence of the Emir of El Fujairah was located in it, so the building was perfectly preserved.
Of interest are the remains of two more ancient forts - Al Bithnah and Wadi Daftah, of which the first is the easternmost of all the Portuguese military fortifications on the peninsula, and the second is located in a very picturesque valley, surrounded by palm groves, on the shore of a small lake.
Fans of antiquities are also welcome to the hospitable Fujairah Museum, opened in 1991, which exhibits numerous historical finds from archaeological excavations in the Old City, as well as traditional products of local artisans from different eras. The museum's opening hours are from 7.00 to 13.00 from Saturday to Wednesday and until 12.00 on Thursday, the day off, as in all Muslim states, is Friday, as well as the holy month of Ramadan. The entrance ticket costs 10.5 dirhams.
Since 1996, another interesting museum has been operating in the metropolitan suburb of Madab - open-air museum, surrounded by a high fake stone wall with watchtowers. Among its exhibits are models of traditional Arab dwellings, craftsmen's tools and household utensils. On the territory of this museum, tourists are offered the al-ayyala folk dance and the original process of pumping well water. The museum is open at the same hours as other public institutions, the entrance costs 10 dirhams.
Of the ancient architectural structures of the emirate, the only well-preserved relic is a small, very elegant and beautiful clay mosque in Biddiya, which, unfortunately, can only be admired from afar, since only Muslims are allowed to enter it. It was erected at the very beginning of the 17th century and is considered the oldest in all the United Emirates. The legend says that it was built by grateful fishermen in honor of a huge pearl found in the sea. It is located 30 km from the capital to the north along the seaside highway.
If you drive a little further along it, then in the small fishing village of Dibba you can see an old Muslim cemetery of the 7th century AD. e., on which the first Islamic warriors rest. Nearby are two very picturesque valleys: Al Wariya Valley, with mineral springs gushing from rocky soil and beautiful waterfalls on rocky ledges, and Al Siji, whose fertile land is cultivated for agricultural land and is a huge plantation of flowers and fruit bushes.
If you drive further along the highway towards Sharjah, then in the mountainous part of Fujairah you can get to the traditional "Friday" market(although it is open on ordinary days), spontaneously arising right next to the roadway. Here you can buy a magnificent handmade carpet of local nomadic tribes or pottery crafts of local artisans, and, of course, enjoy plenty of harsh nomadic exoticism.
People with various skin and musculoskeletal ailments are invariably attracted a couple of tens of kilometers southwest of the capital. Its water has healing properties, and in combination with the beautiful surrounding landscape, this place gives great pleasure and a lasting impression.
Well, in the capital itself you can find a very unusual attraction that causes an involuntary association with Spain - this Friday bullfights near the bridge at the exit from the city towards Kalba. Only, unlike the Spanish bullfight, the local bullfights are completely bloodless and not cruel. The bulls rest against each other with their horns and try to force the opponent's head to the ground under the exclamations of the audience. The losing bull simply runs away from the "battlefield" in shame, so even children can watch the spectacle.
Where to go in the Emirate of Fujairah
Attractions
Museums and galleries
Where to eat and drink
Entertainment
Transport
Shops and markets
Private guides in the Emirate of Fujairah
Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with the Emirate of Fujairah in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.
Shopping in Fujairah
El Fujairah is primarily famous for its excellent beaches, high-quality hotel service and modern diving, but shopping here is not as well developed as in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. However, there are plenty of places to shop here too. First of all, these are markets where, as usual in the East, you can buy almost everything. The most famous of them is Suk Al Jumaa, or the so-called "Friday", which is organized right next to the highway from Al Fujairah to Sharjah, on the border of these two emirates, in the town of Masafi. Once, a very long time ago, it may have functioned only on Fridays, but now it can be visited daily, except for religious holidays, from 8 am to 8 pm. They sell beautiful handmade carpets brought here from all over the emirates, as well as various pottery, handicrafts, souvenirs and dishes made by local artisans.
For gold items, it is better to go to the Gold Market. Here you can buy gold rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces made by local jewelers at a very attractive price - $ 8 per gram.
Huge Safeer mall Mall accommodated under its roof more than a hundred boutiques and shops, many food courts, cafes, cinemas and even 8 department stores. It is one of the main places of "pilgrimage" for foreign tourists, and even in full family composition, since there is also a slot machine hall and a good entertainment family center.
Lulu Hypermarket is one of the stores of this trade brand, distributed throughout the Persian Gulf. A large mixed store that sells both groceries and related industrial products.
Shopping center Fujairah Trade Center is located on the first floor of a luxurious high-rise residential complex with the same name on an area of about 6.5 thousand square meters. meters. A real paradise for shopaholics, it will take at least three hours to get around it completely. Everything is presented - from a banana to Malaysian video equipment.
Fujairah City Center Mall recently opened in April 2012. It is located at the intersection of the Fujairah-Sharjah highway and the road to Masafi in the western part of the capital. Currently, it is the largest of all shopping centers in the capital. More than 100 stores of manufacturers of the world's leading brands, including the largest Carrefour hypermarket in the entire Principality. Very good Magic Planet family entertainment center and 11-screen VOX Cinemas.
Food and drink
Before trying to eat something outside the hotel of residence, it would not be superfluous to at least in general terms familiarize yourself with the national Arabic cuisine. Of course, as in any civilized country, there are well-known McDonald's here, but European food is not served in traditional cafes and coffee houses.
Almost everyone in the world knows that Muslims do not eat pork, so lovers of this type of meat will have to switch to beef, veal, poultry, fish and, of course, lamb. Arabs prepare meat in a special way, frying it in a pan without fat, which is why its taste becomes special.
Of the meat dishes, the Europeans will surely like the already familiar “shawarma / shawarma”, fried lamb meat with rice and nuts “guzi” and the traditional Arabic kebab “tikka”. There are several types of kebabs here, including the famous marinated beef kebabs and lamb shish kebabs. Quite decent in taste and satisfying are lamb cutlets with spices “kustileta”, fried meat balls “kebbe” and minced meat kebab “kofta”.
Of the dishes with side dishes in Arabic cuisine, “makbous” meat with rice and spices, roast from various types of meat “meshui-mushakkal” with vegetables, bell peppers stuffed with young lamb and the Muslim analogue of pizza - “rice” are common.
Fans of dietary meat will not go hungry either - there are traditionally a lot of chicken dishes in El Fujairah, ranging from steamed chicken with al-mandi honey to tikka-dajaj chicken skewers. As side dishes for meat, rice is mainly used with the addition of vegetable salad.
Soups among the Arabs are almost all meaty, thick, with a variety of vegetable components - from potatoes to beans. As bread for a meal, kubbe pies made from wholemeal wheat flour with meat or the world-famous triangular sambusa pies with all kinds of fillings are used - vegetables, meat, cheese or spinach. There is also bread in the emirates: it is called “fatush” and is baked in clay tandoor ovens, but it is served mainly with salads and vegetable dishes.
Of the vegetable dishes, the well-known "dolma" is in use - an analogue of our cabbage rolls, only in a grape leaf - "kuzhet" zucchini stuffed with meat and cheese and "mutabbal" eggplant caviar. Fish is traditionally good in the Emirates. It is cooked on coals here, and there are more than enough dishes from it. Arabs manage to make even pilaf out of fish. Desserts include Umm Ali raisin milk pudding, Esh Asaya cream cheese cake, Ligemat honey donuts, and the well-known sherbet. Well, a special kind of being at the table - drinking coffee. Coffee for Arabs is a traditional drink for a leisurely conversation, and brewing it correctly is a whole art, very honorable and respected in the emirates. No coffee machines are used here at all, coffee is prepared only “live” and poured from national long-nosed “dalla” coffee pots into small bowls.
- Al Meshwar Restaurant
- Sapore Restaurant
- Swaad Restaurant
- Restaurant Sadaf
- Taj Mahal Restaurant
- Saffron's Restaurant
- King's Restaurant
- Bar Breezes Beach Bar and Terrace
- Restaurant Al Ghorfa
- Restaurant International Marine Club
Before you go in search of a suitable institution, you need to remember that in traditional Arab restaurants and cafes, there is nothing stronger than grape wine from alcohol. Such drinks can only be bought and consumed in licensed restaurants within the hotel.
Connection
The communication system in Fujairah is modern and well-established. Any locality in the world can be called from any pay phone on the streets, not to mention telephones in hotel rooms. True, a call from a room will cost 3-5 times more than from the street, since the machines work with plastic magnetic phone cards with a tariff of 10 dirhams per minute. Such cards are sold in any store, postal kiosk and at any gas station. If you purchase a special prepaid card, then all calls, including calls from hotel rooms, will be subject to a reduced rate. Calling the police or a number starting with 800 is free of charge in any case.
Mobile communication on the territory of the emirate supports the GSM 900 standard, so there are usually no problems with adapting the “handset”. If you are not ready to spend a lot of money on roaming, you only need to purchase a local Sim-card, which will require a copy of your passport. The card is valid for a year. When calling a mobile number, the area code is not dialed, instead the numbers 050 are dialed. If there is no money on the card, outgoing calls are not made until the account is replenished. You can top up through special machines located everywhere in crowded places, or by purchasing and activating mobile cards with a face value of 30 dirhams, which are sold in any store. If you call 122, you can subscribe to GPRS and get access to mobile Internet for 10 dirhams per month.
There is only one Internet provider in all the emirates - this is Etisalat. Wi-Fi entry points are available in the airport building, in the rooms of all hotels without exception, and in some restaurants and cafes. For those who take a laptop with them on the trip, it is even easier: you just need to buy a prepaid card at any postal kiosk, join the network, activate the card and enjoy online communication for 10 dirhams per hour.
Security
Despite the fact that the resort industry is well developed in El Fujairah and tourists are appreciated here as a potential source of income for the emirate, the government does not undertake to guarantee the complete safety of being on the territory of the principality. Of course, Fujairah is not as politically unstable and unpredictable as other Arab states, and the foundations of Islam here are not as orthodox as in neighboring Saudi Arabia or Oman, but even here, due to the rather diverse national composition of the inhabitants, there are enough various renegades and religious fanatics.
Actually, the Arabs make up only 46% of the population, about 30% are the largest Indian diaspora, about 20% are Pakistani, therefore, in case of any misunderstanding, representatives of various faiths are happy to blame each other, and police representatives are just as happy to try to leave the blame the affected tourists themselves. Basically, the claims of the latter relate to not very respectable hotel staff and drivers of rented cars, who are overwhelmingly represented here by representatives of diasporas.
If the opportunity arises, these individuals can easily steal the thing left unattended, and drivers, in addition, sometimes “forget” to return the change. However, the guarantee of the necessary security of the upcoming vacation is still not in countering theft and deceit, but in the necessary amount of knowledge of the religion and customs of the state, whose visitor you become, getting off the plane.
Rules of conduct in the emirate of Fujairah
The dominant religion in Fujairah is Sunni Islam, which is not as intolerant of violations of commandments as Shiite. Nevertheless, any European needs to know and observe several immutable laws and rules of conduct on the territory of the emirate, directly related to the peculiarities of religion.
Especially many nuances arise during the period of the holy Muslim month of Ramadan, which is not “tied” to a specific date and starts at different times every year. For the period of Ramadan, even state institutions change their mode of operation, and solemn prayers take place right on the squares with a large confluence of believers. In this case, the guests of the country need to know that the worshipers cannot be bypassed in front, since this is a grave insult to the faith. On the street in Ramadan you can not eat, drink (including water), chew gum, smoke and sing songs, for this you can easily end up in jail. It is not recommended to take video and photographs of worshipers, as well as just stand and stare at them.
In the presence of Arabs one should refrain from any comment concerning the expediency of their religion and certain ceremonies, as well as from questions about their wives, daughters or any other women. It is better not to talk about them with the Arabs at all, as well as to approach the representatives of the weaker sex and, moreover, to shake hands with them or kiss them. If an Arab woman wishes this, she herself will give a hand when meeting or parting, but touching her without her permission is considered an insult.
A very significant element among Muslims is the handshake. The longer it is, the friendlier your counterpart is. A handshake is also required when saying goodbye, and if the interlocutor is located towards you, he does this with both hands. But try to look at the face at the same time, because looking away is regarded as bad intentions.
If an Arab invited you to his house, then the refusal can be perceived as disrespect for the owner and a personal insult. It is better to go, especially since the Arabs do not practice any alcohol when meeting guests, and the obligatory treat includes tea, coffee, soft drinks and fruits. When entering the dwelling of an Arab, it is necessary to take off your shoes and leave them near the threshold, but if the owner himself enters without taking off his shoes, you can follow his example.
In a conversation with an interlocutor, if both of you are sitting face to face, you can’t stretch your legs in his direction - the soles pointed at the Arab’s face offend him. Being at the guest table, one must remember that it is necessary to take food and pass it only with the right hand, since the left hand is considered unclean by Muslims. It is better not to ask about the household of the owner, limiting himself to a polite question about the health of the whole family - this will be received favorably. Well, and if a European guest can pronounce at least a few phrases in Arabic, respect and honor are guaranteed to him in full.
The cleanliness of the streets in Fujairah is strictly observed, so for throwing garbage or a cigarette butt on the sidewalk (even if you just missed the urn) you can run into a fine of 500 dirhams and even a day in prison. The police monitor this strictly, as well as photography. A prison can also end with an accidental entry into the frame of state and military institutions, palaces of noble persons, police stations, or simply Arab women.
On the streets, it is not customary to eat on the go, swear, drink alcoholic beverages, drink water from taps and fountains - for all this, you will have to fork out a minimum of several hundred, or even thousands of dirhams, and, as a maximum, end up behind bars. With alcohol in all the emirates, jokes are bad: here, although the “dry” law is relaxed for tourists, you can buy and drink alcohol only in the restaurants of the hotels where you live, or in a hotel room. In public places, including beaches, appearing “drunk” or with a bottle of beer in hand is highly discouraged. And God forbid to be drunk at the wheel - a decent prison term in this case is guaranteed.
With the police in Fujairah, as in the whole world, it is better not to quarrel. The so-called "plainclothes agents" are widespread here, who often arrange general document checks in crowded places. In order not to get into an awkward situation, it is recommended to make photocopies of your passport, visa and driver's license in advance and have them with you when you enter the city.
The presumption of innocence does not always work here, but still it’s better not to get into police cars without presenting official documents and announcing your guilt, which you can politely protest without being on the territory of the police (which is considered the interior of a police car).
If you follow the above rules and listen to the advice of acquaintances who have already been in the region as tourists, then your vacation in Fujairah will turn into a pleasant and full of positive emotions experience.
Where to stay in the Emirate of Fujairah
Booking.com offers more than 30 hotels in the Emirate of Fujairah for booking. You can choose a hotel using a variety of filters: hotel star rating, hotel type (hotel, apartment, villa, hostel, etc.), cost, hotel location, ratings of people who visited the hotel, Wi-Fi availability and much more. .
By the way, all local taxis belong to one single state company FTC (Fujairah Transport Corporation). Taxis are the main form of public transport in the emirate. Recall that there is a metro in the UAE in only one city - this. Bus routes inside Fujairah exist, but there are only 11 of them, they are of no value to tourists.
Intercity bus service is represented by only one Fujairah-Dubai route. It is understood that tourists will travel around the emirate by taxi or rent a car.
If you want to visit Fujairah, but not stay in local hotels, you can take the already mentioned bus or taxi. The distance to Dubai is only 120 kilometers. In one day, it is quite possible to swim in the Gulf of Oman, sunbathe on the beach and see all the significant sights of Fujairah, which we will discuss in detail later.
The bus has the number E700, departs every 45 minutes or 1 hour, travel time is 2 hours, ticket price is 25. In Dubai, this bus leaves from Union Square (Union Square) in the area. In Fujairah, his stop is at the Old Plaza Cinema/HSBC (Old Plaza Cinema).
Important advice for tourists. In buses, the first few rows are reserved for women, if you are a man and you are traveling alone, sit right in the back rows.
There are no direct flights from Russia to Fujairah airport and are not expected in the near future. If you bought a package tour to Fujairah, then get ready to fly to Dubai, Abu Dhabi or Sharjah airport and travel from 2 to 4 hours to your hotel by bus.
There are only about three dozen hotels in Fujairah. The most famous of them is the Radisson Blu Resort Fujairah 5*. Even in this expensive hotel, prices are quite moderate - $ 150 per night for a room for two guests. Fujairah is one of the cheapest emirates for living and recreation.
Economy
Fujairah has no oil reserves, its economy is based on revenue from the seaport and subsidies from the UAE government in Abu Dhabi. Coming here is a good chance to look at how the life of the country would look like without oil riches.
The main source of food for the locals has always been the ocean. The fishing industry is still flourishing here. Any tourist can look at the variety of fresh fish in local markets and visit the Friday Market (Friday market in the photo on the right). Restaurants offer a wide range of fish dishes.
The main source of finance for the emirate is the seaport. We already wrote that the land route from Fujairah to Dubai is 120 kilometers, but the sea route is 3 times longer - about 350 kilometers, ships have to go around the Musandam peninsula. Many ships choose not to sail to Dubai for refueling, rest, replenishment of supplies, repairs or to unload cargo, but to stop in the port of Fujairah.
In 2012, the Habshan-Fujairah oil pipeline was opened, leading to the port of Fujairah from Abu Dhabi, and now oil tankers are loaded here, which also no longer need to sail the extra 400 kilometers to Abu Dhabi.
Also, the region's economy boasts cement plants, stone processing enterprises, and the mining industry. Agriculture supplies the inhabitants with vegetables and fruits.
A free economic zone was opened in Fujairah, which the emirate's authorities planned to repeat the success of the Dubai Free Zone Authority in the port of Jabel Ali, but no serious economic boom occurred.
There are no skyscrapers in Fujairah, nothing like it, there are no large shopping centers like it, there are no man-made miracles like it. Fujairah cannot be called a poor emirate; the epithet “modest” is more suitable for it. However, there is something for tourists to see here.
Fujairah has a subtropical dry climate. Rains here are not frequent guests, if they happen, then in winter and not for long (7-10 days for the whole year). As a resort, Fujairah is wealthy at any time of the year, because the water here is never lower than +17˚С. However, in the very sun, when the air even in the shade warms up to + 50˚С, and this is the months of July-August, it is better to refrain from traveling. The optimal time for a holiday in Fujairah is the end of September - May, when the water is not lower than + 20˚С, and the air is + 25˚С.
How to get to Fujairah
The city has an airport, which is located 3 km from the city - south of the center. Fujairah Airport is the only one on the eastern coast of the UAE, has been operating since 1987 and is focused mainly on cargo transportation, private and business flights (unlike Dubai and Abu Dhabi airports). Tourists are often taken from the airport to the city by representatives of hotels in which rooms are booked, but if you are not offered such a service, you will have to take a taxi. Here, in general, everyone actually travels by car. Taxi services, by the way, are moderate in cost - about 2 dirhams or half a dollar per kilometer. By the way, for comfortable movement around the city (if you plan to make excursions, and not just bask on the beach), there are an abundance of car rental options at your service at an average price of 100 dirhams or $ 27 per day. Gasoline in Fujairah is much cheaper than ours, and the roads are much smoother, so driving will be to your liking.
Fujairah, unlike other capitals of the emirates, is rich in historical monuments and architectural masterpieces - there is something to see here.
First of all, visit the famous Fujairah Fort, which is located 2 km from the main city. It is dilapidated in appearance, but magnificent in its grandeur. In 2000, a large-scale reconstruction took place here, so the port became even more amazing. The local castle was built back in 1670 and consists of 3 parts, divided into halls. In addition, the territory of the port is decorated with a picturesque tower.
The Museum of Ancient Settlements also deserves the attention of the guests of Fujairah, because historical relics of ancestors and numerous finds of archaeologists are collected here. Museum coordinates: Al-Salam Rds and Al-Nakheel intersection. Open door hours: Sun-Thu - 8.30-13.00; 16.30-18.30; Fri - 14.00-18.30. The entrance fee is democratic: 5 dirhams (less than $ 1.5), and for children it is completely free.
Of interest to tourists is the local mosque of Al-Bitiya, built more than 400 years ago and is a feat for the engineering and architectural industry of those times. This mosque is one of the oldest on Earth and the oldest in the country, so many Arabs make pilgrimages here. Of course, all travelers who arrived in the UAE also want to visit here. The structure's four domes are miraculously supported by a single central pillar, and the interior is finished with ornate stone carvings. settled 30 km from Fujairah - in the direction of Sharjah, and it is worth visiting it, especially since tourists, as a rule, combine this trip with a visit to the legendary Friday Market, located nearby (you will learn more about it in the "Shopping" section ).
Where else to visit? What is worth seeing in the city?
Al-Kheil Fortress, the former residence of the Emir of Fujairah, located 8 km southwest of the capital;
El Bitna Fort (1735), the easternmost of the UAE forts;
a fort with palm groves in Wadi Dafta;
Al-Wurraya waterfall, a rarity for the nature of the country;
sulfuric mineral geysers of Ain Al-Ghamur, curing rheumatism and gout;
Gardens with mineral springs Ain Al-Madhab (by the way, there are hotels in the park for those who want to get medical treatment);
Marine Club;
a source of hot water "Ain Gomur", which beats out of the ground 20 km from Fujairah to the southwest;
bullfights.
And, of course, let's not forget about the main thing - nature: in Fujairah you can do mountain climbing, water sports, including the local famous diving and snorkeling. Coral reefs, golden beaches, crystal clear waters, turtles - all this makes a holiday in Fujairah special. By the way, if you have not been diving yet, then there are schools that are ready to teach everyone the underwater tricks. In addition, there are 2 international diving centers on the coast of Fujairah. Everyone who is fond of scuba diving is simply obliged to visit here at least once. Experienced divers recommend diving at Martini Rock, they say it’s a miracle - how beautiful colorful corals are, and the depth reaches 20 m. Here you can also admire such underwater inhabitants as scorpion fish, cuttlefish, and lion fish. Among diving enthusiasts, such centers and places as Shark Island, Auto Graveyard, Snoopy Island, World Chasm Cave, Dibba Island and dive clubs near the Oceanic Hotel are popular.
Fujairah Restaurants
If your travel budget is modest, eat in eateries: "Kentucky Fried Chicken" and "Pizza Hut" - there you will be quickly, cheaply and tasty fed with no less hospitality than in restaurants.
On average, a hearty meal for two costs about 60 dirhams, or $16. Often, service tips are already added to the bill, but if you add "tea" on top of them, you will certainly receive a compliment from the chef on your next visit.
Shopping in Fujairah
Undoubtedly, of great interest to all tourists arriving in the UAE is the Friday Market or Friday Market, which offers a huge selection of souvenirs, handmade carpets, dishes, jewelry, silk, ceramics, daggers and other colorful local products. You can also buy exotic fruits and local sweets here. The market is located 30 km from the city towards Sharzhd - in the mountains and operates from 8.00 to 22.00 (however, during the prayer period, sellers can close their shops). Getting to Friday Market is easy, all taxi services are ready to take tourists there at almost any time for 18-37 dirhams (5-10 dollars).
