Special Features
Where To Go & What To See In Sharjah
Relax on clean, sandy, sun-soaked beaches. Sharjah is the only emirate in the United Arab Emirates to have land on both coasts, offering you a choice of safe and gently shelving beaches along the shores of the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The clear, blue waters are a haven for swimmers, snorkellers, divers, fishing enthusiasts a and all water sports fans, as well as those in search of rest and relaxation.East Coast Paradise
The east coast is a destination not to be missed during your stay in Sharjah. Diverse landscapes offer impressive mountain scenery, serene mangroves, golden sandy beaches, world class scuba diving and relaxing hotels. On the shores of the Gulf of Oman, you’ll find a peaceful retreat, far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city, yet accessible in under two hours’ drive from Sharjah city. Your journey east will pass through the rugged scenery of the Hajar Mountains and bring you don to the clear blue waters that wash the shores of the seaside towns of Dibba Al Hisn, Khor Fakkan and Kalba.
KALBA – is one of the best tourist destinations and the most southerly settlement before the border with Oman. It makes for an interesting place to stop along the east coast with ancient forts and a museum that has its own historical charm. While driving along the coastal road you may see traditional fishing boats and fishermen hauling in their nets.
KHOR KALBA – a tidal khor (creek) just a few kilometers south of Kalba, is the site of Arabia’s oldest mangrove forest and is an important conservation area for endangered species. The mangrove is inhabited by two of the world’s rarest birds: the white-collared kingfisher and Syke’s warbler. Various species of crab and mudskipper also live in this peaceful nature reserve.
Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamed Al Qasimi – is one of the prominent archeological sites in Kalba, located opposite Kalba fort, built sometime between 1898 and 1901. A fully restored traditional home, the former beachside residence of H.E. Sheikh Saeed bin Hamed Al Qasimi now displays musical instruments, Islamic heritage articrafts, agricultural equipment and other items providing a glimpse into the lifestyle of the east coast of Sharjah.
The Oceanic Hotel & Resort in Khor Fakkan has its own private beach, swimming pool, spa, dive centre and water sports facilities. With the sea, sun, sand and all sorts of activities for guests of all ages, it’s the perfect place for a family break.
The name KHOR FAKKAN translates as ‘Creek of the Two Jaws’, reflecting its setting in a splendid bay flanked on either side by two headlands. This is Sharjah’s largest town on the coast, found halfway between Dibba and Fujairah and is a popular place for day trips and weekend breaks.
DIBBA, famous in Islamic history as the site of the one of the great battles of the Ridda wars, incorporates a set of three sleepy, seaside villages. Dibba Al Hisn is owned by Sharjah, Dibba Muhallab belongs to Fujairah and Dibba Bayah is owned by the Sultanate of Oman. These fishing communities share a large, beautiful bay and their harbours are worth a visit in the late afternoon to see the day’s catch come in.