Khor Fakkan is Sharjah’s spectacular east-coast enclave — a curving corniche beach framed by mountains, and one of the most scenic day trips in the country. With its waterfall, amphitheatre and clear diving waters, Khor Fakkan feels a world away from the west-coast cities.
A dramatic drive through the Hajar Mountains delivers you to the Gulf of Oman. Here is how to make the most of it, as part of our main Sharjah guide.
Getting your bearings in Khor Fakkan
The town wraps around a sweeping bay on the Gulf of Oman, with the corniche beach at its centre, the mountains rising behind and Shark Island offshore.
Where to eat in Khor Fakkan
Seafront cafes and seafood restaurants line the corniche, perfect after a day on the sand.
Beach and things to do in Khor Fakkan
The Blue Flag corniche beach, the man-made Khor Fakkan Waterfall, the hillside amphitheatre, Al Rabi Tower and snorkelling and diving around Shark Island make this a standout — see the UAE’s best beaches.
Where to stay
Beachfront hotels along the corniche make Khor Fakkan an easy overnight escape from the cities.
Getting to Khor Fakkan
About 90 minutes from Dubai through the mountains — best reached by car, and worth the drive for the scenery alone.
Best time to visit
The cooler months from October to April are ideal for the beach and mountain drives; sunrise over the Gulf is a highlight.
Explore more of Sharjah
Head back to the main Sharjah guide to explore more of the emirate.
Good to know
Khor Fakkan is Sharjah’s spectacular east-coast enclave, set on a horseshoe bay on the Gulf of Oman and ringed by the Hajar mountains. The revamped corniche, the Khor Fakkan Waterfall and Amphitheatre, and easy access to Snoopy Island diving have turned it into one of the UAE’s best domestic-tourism spots. Reached via a dramatic mountain highway from Sharjah city, Khor Fakkan rewards the drive with beaches, hikes and a genuinely scenic change of pace.