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Shees Valley, nestled amidst the Hajar Mountains, remains a secluded natural gem ideal for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts seeking tranquility away from urban life.
Located approximately 22 km southwest of Khorfakkan on the east coast, this valley offers a range of activities and adventures. Visitors can embark on hikes along narrow mountain trails, explore quaint villages and rock formations, observe local wildlife and flora, and visit nearby palm farms and agricultural fields.
Adjacent to the valley is Shees Park, inaugurated in late 2020 as a sanctuary for eco and mountain tourism aficionados. It provides amenities such as barbecue areas, stone benches for relaxation, a children’s playground, and an outdoor concert theatre, making it an ideal destination for outings with friends and family.
Khorfakkan’s history is an integral part of its present. Therefore, visiting the city’s museums allows visitors to learn more about it through various exhibits and artefacts.
Among the museums that visitors should not miss is the Resistance Monument, a helmet- shaped museum commissioned by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to honour the people of Khorfakkan and the sacrifices they made to defend their town against the Portuguese invasion in 1507.
Located in Al Qadisiya area, on the banks of Khorfakkan Square, near the flagpole landmark, the Resistance Monument is a place where visitors can watch film screenings, see artefacts used by the residents to defend Khorfakkan, and take pictures while enjoying a panoramic city view from above.
Additionally, visitors can explore the reconstructed Hisn Khorfakkan, where they can immerse themselves in the region's history through engaging visual media, sculptures, photographs, and other exhibits that showcase the ruins discovered on the east coast, offering a vivid journey back in time.
Khorfakkan offers breathtaking panoramic views that visitors should not miss. It includes vantage points where tourists can admire the city and its surroundings from elevated locations. Al Suhub Rest House, positioned atop the highest mountain peak at 600 meters above sea level, provides unparalleled views of the city from all directions.
Al Adwani Tower stands as another must-visit spot for enjoying a spectacular view of Khorfakkan. Originally serving as a lighthouse guiding ships to Khorfakkan port, it distinguishes itself in the Gulf region by its unique construction entirely devoid of wood. Its distinctive shape resembles that of an obelisk or a traditional lighthouse.
Additionally, visitors can ascend the tower to admire the magnificent city views via a winding road leading to the top. Al Rabi Tower, towering 395 meters above sea level, serves as an ancient defensive tower and offers breathtaking vistas of Khorfakkan's picturesque beaches and natural landscapes. Hiking along the mountain path to reach its summit adds to the adventure of experiencing the stunning scenery firsthand.
Al Rafisah Dam is located on the highway connecting Sharjah City and Khorfakkan. Its artificial lake is considered one of the city’s family leisure destinations. Visitors can enjoy many activities, like kayaking, looking at birds and fish in the lake, feeding the ducks, and watching gazelles in the nearby reserve.
Visitors can also escort kids to one of the three on-site children’s playgrounds or visit the artificial waterfall that flows into the lake surrounded by intense greenery.
Another activity at Al Rafisah Dam includes ascending the nearby fort to capture stunning photographs of the lake and dam from an elevated vantage point. Visitors can also stroll along a scenic walkway lined with roses, basil, palm trees, and other flora to reach the mountain village situated atop one of the nearby peaks.
Khorfakkan is a favored destination for scuba diving and water sports enthusiasts, boasting expansive bays along its coastline teeming with diverse marine life and clear waters.
There are seven dive sites in Khorfakkan offering various activities, from diving under shipwrecks to watching sea creatures and coral reefs with magnificent formations.
Among these dive sites, notable ones include the Inchcape 1 wreck, deliberately sunk to create a habitat for marine life such as large rays and emperor fish. Another popular spot is Martini Rock, where divers can encounter turtles, squid, wrasses, and other fascinating sea creatures.
Likewise, other dive sites that provide a similar experience include Sira Khorfakkan Island, Almanure, Hole in the Wall, Anemone Gardens, and Coral Gardens.
When visiting Khorfakkan, a visit to the old market (Souk Sharq) is a must. This market takes its visitors on a journey to the past, specifically to the ancestors’ lives before the start of the oil era.
Visitors to Sharq Market can enjoy strolling through its aisles to delve deeper into the place's rich history and heritage.
Additionally, tourists can explore Khorfakkan’s local environment and history up close in the covered market and the Traditional Crafts’ Museum, which displays different arts and crafts, such as traditional medicine, carpentry, jewellery trade, and sewing.
Other activities in Khorfakkan’s markets include shopping and outdoor dining at nearby restaurants and cafes.
Visiting Khorfakkan’s beaches and coastal sites is one activity that should not be missed. Among these sites is the rocky Sira Khorfakkan Island, situated opposite the east coast. The island is characterised by the diversity of its sea creatures and its sandy beach. Visitors can walk on or rent diving equipment from the dedicated huts on-site to see Arabian angelfish, sea turtles, moray eels, and much more.
Khorfakkan Beach is also popular among families, attracting tourists and hikers to practice many water activities such as boating, fishing, and diving, among other water sports.
Moreover, visitors can rent jet skis or small boats from the corniche to go to the nearby Shark Island (Sira Khorfakkan Island), one of the diving and snorkelling destinations.
For those who prefer a quiet ambiance, Al Luluyah Beach, characterised by its surrounding mountains, is the right place to go. Visitors can spend time with their families and friends camping, watching the sunrise, strolling along the sand, or enjoying water activities such as surfing and swimming.
Khorfakkan boasts numerous traditional and cultural attractions that vividly reflect its identity and history, offering tourists insights into the city's heritage. One such attraction is Salem Al Mutawa Mosque, a two-century-old landmark distinguished by its open minaret shaped like an arch.
There is also Najd Al Maqsar Village in the historical city of Khorfakkan, where ruins dating back to 2000 BC have been found.
The Khorfakkan Amphitheater blends Roman and Islamic architectural influences, welcoming visitors to enjoy shows and events against the backdrop of the picturesque Khorfakkan beach.
Those interested in seeing the towering flagpole of the United Arab Emirates should head to Khorfakkan Square, where visitors can walk, spend some time in nature, and see the giant incense burner placed in the middle of the square as a symbol of Arabic hospitality.
[1] visitsharjah.com, Khorfakkan
[2] sharjahmuseums.ae, MUSEUMS
[3] visitsharjah.com, Experiences at Al Rafisah Dam
[4] moccae.gov.ae, Wadi Shees
[5] worldscoolestwinter.ae, Najd Al-Maqsar Village
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