Fujairah, one of the UAE’s best-kept secrets, is more than just a beachside escape—it’s a cultural treasure trove with rugged mountains, serene mosques, ancient forts, and underwater adventures. Whether you’re planning a long weekend away or you’re a UAE resident keen on exploring beyond Dubai and Abu Dhabi, Fujairah offers a refreshing pace of life and a long list of things to do in 2025. Here’s our guide to the 20 best experiences in this underappreciated gem.
Fujairah always sneaks up on me in the best way — every drive up the coast feels like leaving the city behind without really going far. One weekend, I pulled over near a random wadi just to stretch my legs, and ended up hiking for an hour along a dry riverbed until I found a small pool of clear water tucked between rocks; no one else around, just the sound of wind and the occasional bird. I sat there dipping my feet in, eating dates from the car, thinking how strange it is that this emirate has both empty beaches and mountains that look like they belong in another country. The whole place has this quiet confidence — no need to shout about its beauty, it just is. If you’re planning a day or two here, don’t cram the schedule. Pick a couple of things that sound peaceful or strange to you — a hidden cove, a mountain trail, an old mosque at dawn — and let the rest happen on its own. You’ll drive back feeling lighter than when you left.
1. Visit Fujairah Fort
Arguably one of the oldest forts in the UAE, this 16th-century marvel offers panoramic views of the city. Learn about the emirate’s rich past with a walk through its restored towers and halls.
2. Snorkel at Snoopy Island
Snoopy Island in Al Aqah is a hotspot for snorkelling and kayaking. Its crystal-clear waters are home to lively marine life, including turtles, rays, and reef fish.
3. Tour Al Badiyah Mosque
The oldest mosque in the UAE, Al Badiyah Mosque, is a spiritual and architectural highlight. This small but historic building, surrounded by date palms and hills, dates back to 1446.
4. Dive the Coral Reefs
Book a diving session off the Fujairah coast to explore some of the UAE’s best coral reefs. Dive centres in Al Aqah offer certified instructors and all the gear you’ll need.
5. Relax at the Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort
Pamper yourself with five-star luxury in Dibba. Fairmont offers infinity pools, spa treatments, fine dining, and epic sea views. Ideal for romantic getaways or stylish staycations.
6. Hike Wadi Wurayah National Park
This protected area is home to waterfalls, rare wildlife, and hiking trails that weave through the Hajar Mountains. It’s the first UNESCO-recognised biosphere reserve in the UAE.
If you want named trails rather than just “drive and see,” the wider Hajar range around Masafi has a couple worth knowing. The Wadi Al Abadilah Trail is an easy 8km route through a palm-filled valley with year-round freshwater streams, taking 60–90 minutes and suited to beginners. The Sal Khail Trail, developed by the Fujairah Adventures Centre, passes ancient watchtower ruins and a viewpoint over Dibba — do the relaxed two-hour round trip or push on for the full 10km loop past petroglyphs and old farms. Both are reachable by a regular car, no 4×4 required.
7. Drive Through the Hajar Mountains
Take the scenic route from Fujairah City through the mountain passes. Expect winding roads, epic viewpoints, and a landscape that feels like another world.
8. Camp at Al Aqah Beach
Pitch a tent by the sea and wake up to the sound of waves. Beach camping is popular here, especially during the cooler months between October and March.
9. Experience Friday Market (Souq al Juma)
Technically just outside Fujairah in Masafi, this busy roadside market is packed with fresh fruits, pottery, carpets, and plants. A must-visit en route to or from the emirate.
10. Visit the Fujairah Museum
Located near the Fort, this museum houses archaeological and ethnographic exhibits, some dating back to the Bronze Age.
11. Try Jet Skiing and Water Sports
The beaches of Fujairah are perfect for thrill-seekers. Rent jet skis, go parasailing, or try a banana boat ride with one of the local beach operators.
12. Explore Ain Al Madhab Gardens
A charming public park with mineral hot springs and pools, set against the backdrop of the Hajar Mountains. It’s great for families and a picnic-friendly escape.
13. Discover the Heritage Village
See traditional Emirati life recreated in this village, with exhibits including an old souq, mud houses, fishing gear, and cooking tools.
14. Spend the Day at Umbrella Beach
Fujairah’s latest hotspot is a beautifully hand-picked waterfront promenade filled with cafes, activities, and shaded cabanas. Think of it as Fujairah’s take on The Beach, JBR.
15. Take a Dhow Cruise
Sail along the coast in a traditional wooden dhow. Sunset cruises often include BBQ dinners and views of the mountainous coastline.
Set against the Hajar Mountains and the Haam Dam, Fujairah Adventure Park is worth building an afternoon around if you want something more active than a beach day. It packs in ziplining, archery, axe throwing and kayaking, with options ranging from a laid-back outing to a proper adrenaline session — a good pick for groups or families with older kids who’ve done the forts and beaches and want to move a bit.
16. Try Emirati Cuisine at Al Meshwar Restaurant
This long-standing restaurant is famous for serving traditional dishes in a rustic setting. Try the lamb harees or fish machboos.
17. Photograph the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Fujairah
Often overshadowed by its Abu Dhabi counterpart, this massive white mosque is the second-largest in the country and incredibly photogenic.
18. Watch the Sunrise Over the Gulf of Oman
Set your alarm and head to the beach early to catch a breathtaking sunrise. Fujairah’s east-facing coastline offers some of the UAE’s best sunrise views.
19. Spa Day at Le Méridien Al Aqah
Indulge in a holistic spa treatment followed by a beachfront lunch. Their wellness packages are popular with weekenders and couples alike.
20. Explore Bull Butting (if you’re curious)
Not for everyone, but it’s a traditional spectacle unique to Fujairah. Locals gather on Fridays to watch two bulls compete in a test of strength.
Fujairah is having a moment—and it’s about time. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or a peaceful reset, this underrated emirate is full of surprises waiting to be discovered.
Frequently Asked Questions
Key historical attractions include Fujairah Fort, Al Bidya Mosque, and the Fujairah Museum, all offering insight into the emirate’s past.
Yes, Wadi Wurayah National Park and the beaches of Al Aqah offer excellent natural beauty and outdoor adventure.
Absolutely. Snoopy Island and Dibba Rock are popular for snorkelling and diving, with lively marine life and clear waters.
Yes, Fujairah is family-friendly with plenty of attractions, from beaches and parks to museums and outdoor excursions.
Fujairah is approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Dubai, making it a convenient weekend getaway destination.
October to April, when temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for beaches, hiking and camping. There’s also a nice bonus for winter visitors: from December to March, valleys and mountain areas around Masafi and Asimah burst into purple and pink wildflower blooms, with a dedicated flower farm in Wadi Asimah open daily from 6am to 7pm.
Explore Fujairah by area
Planning your route along the east coast? Our Fujairah area guides break it down spot by spot — Fujairah City, Al Aqah, Dibba and Masafi — with the best beaches, dives, wadis and places to stay in each.
