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The east coast of the Sharjah Emirate has received significant attention from His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. His leadership has driven numerous development projects that have greatly enhanced the area's attractiveness as a top destination for tourism and investment. The East Coast now boasts several prominent tourist attractions, including:
Khorfakkan, often referred to as the “Bride of the Eastern Coast,” is the largest city on Sharjah Emirate's east coast. Nestled among mountains, it boasts a unique location that enhances its allure. Khorfakkan’s rich historical and archaeological sites, along with its 2023 title as the “Best Arab Tourist City” awarded by the Arab Union for Tourist Media, add to its appeal. It is also a top choice for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of remarkable tourist attractions such as:
Khorfakkan Beach is famed for its picturesque crescent shape, crystal-clear waters, and diverse activities. Visitors can unwind on the beach, admire the natural beauty, and indulge in adventures like swimming, fishing, and boat tours. Nearby, Shark Island is a must-visit for diving and snorkelling enthusiasts. This beach also features parks, sports fields, playgrounds, shopping centres, and designated jogging and cycling paths, making it an ideal destination for families.
Al Suhub Rest House sits atop a mountain peak in Khorfakkan, about 600 metres above sea level. Its circular design provides a full 360-degree panoramic view of the beach and city. The rest house features premium facilities and services, promising an exceptional experience for every visitor.
The Khorfakkan Amphitheatre elegantly merges Roman and Islamic architectural styles and seats over 3,500 spectators. Its prime location provides unique views of Khorfakkan Beach, enhancing its appeal as a top venue for diverse shows and events. Adjacent to the amphitheatre is a spectacular artificial waterfall, standing 45 metres high and 11 metres wide, adding to the venue's allure.
Shees Village, situated among rugged mountains, embodies the heritage and authenticity of its fewer than 300 residents. This charming village boasts several tourist attractions, including Shees Park, a unique family entertainment venue, and the Wadi Shees Natural Trail which spans about 1.8 kilometres, offering thrilling adventures and breathtaking natural scenery.
In addition to its popular attractions, Khorfakkan is home to several other captivating sites. Khorfakkan Square, with its prominent UAE flagpole, is set amidst expansive green gardens and elegant fountains. On the other hand, Sira Khorfakkan Island offers a perfect setting for swimming and observing diverse marine life, while Al Rafisah Dam is renowned for its freshwater lake and the impressive, majestic mountains that encircle it.
Kalba is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and rare wildlife, complemented by historic sites and forts that highlight the city’s commitment to persevering its rich heritage. Here are some of the most popular tourist destinations to explore:
Spanning 1,435 metres, Khor Kalba Fort is a historic structure from the 1800s, notable for its four walls of varying lengths. This fort showcases a collection of artefacts and archaeological discoveries, some from its own era and others from earlier periods.
Built in the late 19th century, Bait Sheikh Saeed bin Hamad Al Qasimi was formerly the residence of the late ruler and his family. Today, it has been converted into a museum that displays a variety of Emirati and Islamic artefacts. Highlights include coins, ancient weapons, pottery, traditional tools, and a distinguished 700-year-old gold-plated Quran manuscript.
Al Qurm Protected Area, one of the UAE's and Arabian Peninsula's oldest mangrove (qurm) forests, covers 4.9 kilometres. This unique area blends marine and wildlife features, earning recognition as one of the country’s most distinctive ecological areas. It serves as a habitat for numerous rare bird species like the Arabian collared kingfisher, and various sea turtles along the nearby beach.
Kalba City offers a range of exceptional tourist attractions. The Kalba Corniche Park provides breathtaking sea views and a variety of thrilling water activities. The Kalba Birds of Prey Centre, with its impressive collection of around 46 bird species, is renowned for its outdoor flight shows. Additionally, Wadi Al Helo presents a tranquil nature reserve nestled in the mountains, featuring diverse wildlife including rodents, birds, reptiles, and fish.
Dibba Al-Hisn offers a wealth of historical allure and unique attractions for exploration. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s authentic heritage by exploring the ancient fort, unwinding on picturesque beaches with breathtaking sunsets, or setting off on unforgettable sea voyages on fishing boats or dhows to observe dolphins. Popular activities also include diving, swimming, and fishing, providing a range of engaging options.
Visitors can also explore the public park’s expansive green spaces, browse local markets for fresh produce, and participate in year-round cultural and heritage festivals. Highlights include the “Dibba Al-Hisn Cultural Festival” at the Culture Centre and the “Sharjah Heritage Days” events in the heritage village.
Finally, visitors to the East Coast should plan ahead by checking each destination’s operating hours and ticket prices. During summer, wearing sunscreen and sunglasses is crucial. Furthermore, appropriate gear should be tailored to each location. For example, comfortable hiking shoes are essential for the Wadi Shees Natural Trail, while binoculars and a camera are ideal for Al Qurm Protected Area.
References
[1] visitsharjah.com, الساحل الشرقي
[2] visitsharjah.com, Khorfakkan Interactive Map
[3] visitsharjah.com, كلباء
[4] visitsharjah.com, دبا الحصن
[5] ar-ae, إمارة الشارقة
[6] moccae.gov.ae, محمية أشجار القرم
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