Al Fujayrah, United Arab Emirates

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Al Fujayrah, United Arab Emirates

Region: Al Fujayrah, United Arab Emirates is located in Al Fujayrah


Geographic Coordinates: 25.122300, 56.334200
Temperature Range: -20.0°C to 50.0°C (-4°F to 122°F)
Climate: Varies.
Population: 93673
Language: Arabic

Al Fujayrah, Located on the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Is a captivating and picturesque city that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, Cultural heritage, And modern development. Nestled between majestic mountains and stunning beaches along the Gulf of Oman, Al Fujayrah is known for its breathtaking landscapes and tranquil atmosphere. One of the most prominent features of Al Fujayrah is its rugged mountain range, Which stretches across the city’s backdrop. These mountains provide an awe-inspiring setting for outdoor enthusiasts to explore. Hiking trails wind through lush wadis (valleys) with crystal-clear streams and cascading waterfalls.

The region’s highest peak, Jebel Jais Mountain, Offers thrilling adventures such as zip-lining at Jebel Jais Flight – the world’s longest zipline. For beach lovers, Al Fujayrah boasts pristine shores with turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming, Snorkeling or simply unwinding under the sun. Sandy beaches like Snoopy Island Beach attract visitors with their calm waters teeming with vibrant marine life. Snorkeling or diving around Snoopy Island reveals a colorful underwater world filled with coral reefs and tropical fish species. Beyond its natural wonders, Al Fujayrah also has a rich cultural heritage waiting to be explored.

The city’s Heritage Village showcases traditional Emirati architecture and provides insight into local customs through exhibitions featuring artifacts from times gone by. Visitors can witness traditional crafts being made by skilled artisans or indulge in authentic Emirati cuisine at one of the village’s charming restaurants. Al Fujayrah also offers historical sites such as Bithnah Fort – an ancient fortress dating back to 1735 AD that served as an important defense point against invaders in earlier times. This well-preserved fortification allows visitors to step back in time while exploring its maze-like corridors and learning about its strategic significance.

In recent years, Modern developments have taken root in Al Fujayrah, Enhancing the city’s appeal. The city boasts luxurious resorts and hotels that offer world-class amenities and stunning views of the coastline. The Fujairah City Centre Mall provides a comprehensive shopping experience with international brands, Entertainment options, And a range of dining choices. Al Fujayrah is also known for its thriving fishing industry, With the local fish market offering an authentic glimpse into the daily lives of fishermen.

Visitors can witness fishermen unloading their fresh catch or even try their hand at fishing by joining one of the many fishing tours available. Al Fujayrah presents a captivating blend of natural beauty, Cultural heritage, And modern development. Whether exploring its majestic mountains or relaxing on pristine beaches, Immersing oneself in Emirati traditions at Heritage Village or indulging in luxury resorts along the coast – Al Fujayrah offers visitors an unforgettable experience that showcases both traditional Arabian charm and contemporary elegance.



Important Landmarks

  1. Fujairah Fort: A historic fortress built in the 16th century, offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains.
  2. Al Bidyah Mosque: The oldest mosque in the UAE, known for its unique architecture and intricate details.
  3. Sheikh Zayed Mosque: A beautiful mosque located on the outskirts of Fujairah, named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and first president of the UAE.
  4. Bithnah Fort: Another historic fort located outside Fujairah city, known for its well-preserved structure and scenic surroundings.
  5. Ain al-Madhab Hot Springs: Natural hot springs nestled in a picturesque valley near Dibba Al-Fujairah, offering a relaxing experience to visitors.
  6. Wadi Wurayah National Park: A protected area featuring stunning landscapes with waterfalls, pools, and diverse wildlife species like Arabian leopards and mountain gazelles.
  7. Snoopy Island: An iconic snorkeling spot off the coast of Fujairah that is home to vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
  8. Dibba Rock: A popular diving site with crystal-clear waters where divers can explore colorful coral formations and encounter various fish species.
  9. Al Hayl Castle: Located in Hajar Mountains near Hatta town (partly within Dubai emirate), this historical castle offers insight into traditional Emirati architecture and culture.
  10. Friday Market (Souq al-Juma): An authentic local market selling fresh produce, traditional crafts, spices carpets antiques, and more.

Primary Industries

  1. Oil and Gas: Al Fujayrah is home to the Port of Fujairah, which is one of the world’s largest bunkering hubs for oil and petroleum products. The city has several oil storage facilities, refineries, and shipping companies.
  2. Shipping and Logistics: The Port of Fujairah is a major center for maritime trade, handling various types of cargo including containers, bulk commodities, and petroleum products. Many shipping companies have their operations based in Al Fujayrah.
  3. Tourism: Al Fujayrah has been developing its tourism sector with attractions such as beaches, resorts, water sports activities like diving and snorkeling, historical sites like Al Bidyah Mosque (the oldest mosque in the UAE), hiking trails in the Hajar Mountains, etc.
  4. Manufacturing: The city has a growing manufacturing sector with industries such as cement production (Fujairah Cement Industries), construction materials manufacturing (tiles marbles), food processing (dairy products), packaging materials production etc.
  5. Construction: With ongoing infrastructure development projects in the UAE as a whole and specifically in Al Fujayrah itself (including residential complexes hotels/resorts) construction companies play a significant role in the local economy.
  6. Trading: Various trading companies are based in Al Fujayrah due to its strategic location near international shipping routes. These businesses engage in import/export activities involving diverse goods such as automobiles/vehicles parts/accessories electronics textiles machinery/equipment etc.
  7. Agriculture/Fishing: Despite being limited due to arid climatic conditions compared to other regions of the UAE or Gulf countries overall—some agricultural activities like date farming are present along with fishing industry focusing on local seafood supply.
  8. Healthcare Services/Education/Professional Services/Retail Sector/Hospitality Industry/Real Estate Development are also important sectors contributing to the local economy.

It’s worth noting that the specific industries and businesses in Al Fujayrah may continue to evolve as per economic diversification plans and initiatives undertaken by the UAE government.


Noteable History

  1. Early Settlement: Al Fujayrah has a long history of human settlement, dating back thousands of years. Archaeological findings suggest that humans have inhabited this region since the Neolithic period.
  2. British Influence: In the 19th century, Al Fujayrah became a protectorate under British influence along with other Trucial States (now UAE). The British established a presence in the region to protect maritime trade routes.
  3. Independence: On December 2, 1971, Al Fujayrah joined six other emirates to form the United Arab Emirates following their independence from Britain.
  4. Modern Development: Since gaining independence, Al Fujayrah has undergone significant development and modernization efforts like other emirates in the UAE. It has seen infrastructural improvements such as roads, hospitals, schools, and residential areas.
  5. Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi: Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi is the current ruler of Al Fujayrah since 1974 when he succeeded his father as ruler of the Emirate.
  6. Economic Importance: Although traditionally known for fishing and agriculture due to its location on the Gulf of Oman coast, today’s economy in Al Fujayrah largely relies on industries such as shipping ports (Fujairah Port), oil storage facilities (Fujairah Oil Industry Zone), tourism resorts (Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort), and free zones for businesses.
  7. Hajar Mountains: One notable geographical feature near Al Fujayrah is Jebel Hafeet in Hajar Mountains range which offers stunning views from its summit and attracts tourists and hikers.

While Al Fujayrah may not have as many globally recognized historical events or figures as some other emirates, it has played a crucial role in the formation of the United Arab Emirates and has witnessed significant development over the years.


Museums and Things To See

  1. Al Bidya Mosque: This ancient mosque is the oldest in the United Arab Emirates and showcases stunning architectural features.
  2. Fujairah Museum: Located in the heart of Al Fujayrah, this museum offers a glimpse into the history and culture of the region through its collection of artifacts and exhibits.
  3. Fujairah Fort: Also known as Al Bithna Fort, this historical fortress provides panoramic views of the city and houses a small museum displaying traditional Emirati weapons, costumes, and jewelry.
  4. Sheikh Zayed Mosque: A beautiful mosque located in Fujairah City that showcases intricate Islamic architecture and design.
  5. Ain al-Madhab Hot Springs: Situated amidst scenic mountains, these natural hot springs offer a relaxing experience with their warm mineral-rich waters.
  6. Dibba Rock: A popular diving spot for underwater enthusiasts, Dibba Rock is home to vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life.
  7. Wadi Wurayah National Park: This protected area boasts stunning landscapes including waterfalls, freshwater pools, and diverse wildlife making it ideal for hiking or picnicking.
  8. Snoopy Island: A small rocky island off the coast of Fujairah that offers fantastic snorkeling opportunities to explore colorful coral reefs inhabited by various fish species.
  9. Bidiyah Camel Market: Experience an authentic Emirati tradition at this bustling market where you can witness camel auctions and learn about Bedouin culture.
  10. Al Hayl Castle: Located on a hilltop overlooking palm groves, this restored fort is an excellent example of traditional Emirati architecture dating back to 1830s.

Note that some places may have specific visiting hours or restrictions due to COVID-19 regulations or other factors; it’s recommended to check before planning your visit.



Sports Teams

  1. Al-Fujairah SC: This is a football (soccer) club based in Al Fujayrah that competes in the UAE Pro League. The team has had varying success over the years.
  2. Dibba Al-Fujairah Club: Another football club from Al Fujayrah that competes in the UAE Pro League.
  3. UAE national football team: The national team represents the United Arab Emirates in international football competitions and has achieved some notable successes, including qualifying for the FIFA World Cup in 1990.
  4. Basketball: While information on specific basketball teams from Al Fujayrah is scarce, basketball is gaining popularity across the United Arab Emirates, with local leagues and tournaments being organized.
  5. Motor sports: The United Arab Emirates hosts various motor sport events throughout its different emirates, including Formula 1 races at Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi.

It’s important to note that due to limited available data specifically about sports teams from Al Fujayrah, this list may not be exhaustive or comprehensive regarding all sports activities within the emirate itself.



Cultural Events

  1. Fujairah International Arts Festival: This annual festival showcases a wide range of artistic performances including music, dance, theater, and visual arts.
  2. Fujairah Open Championship: A major sporting event held annually in Al Fujayrah that attracts participants from various countries to compete in sports like swimming, cycling, running, and more.
  3. Liwa Ajman Dates Festival: Although not directly in Al Fujayrah but nearby in the emirate of Ajman, this festival celebrates the date palm tree and its significance to Emirati culture. Visitors can enjoy various activities such as date tasting competitions and traditional performances.
  4. Dibba Bay Oyster Festival: Held annually at Dibba Bay in Al Fujayrah, this festival celebrates the region’s oyster farming industry with activities like oyster shucking competitions, live cooking demonstrations using oysters, and seafood tastings.
  5. National Day Celebrations: On December 2nd each year, the UAE celebrates its National Day with various events including parades showcasing Emirati heritage and culture such as traditional dances (Ayyala), camel races, falconry displays, and fireworks shows.
  6. Ramadan Night Market: During the holy month of Ramadan (based on Islamic lunar calendar), a night market is set up offering a variety of food stalls selling traditional Arabic cuisine along with clothing items and other goods.
  7. Eid al-Fitr Celebration: Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan fasting period for Muslims worldwide. In Al Fujayrah and across UAE there are various festivities including firework displays, cultural performances, and communal feasts organized during this time.

Please note that some events may vary from year to year or be subject to change based on local circumstances or religious observances.


Cuisine

  1. Al Meshwar Restaurant: Known for its traditional Emirati dishes such as Machbous (spiced rice with meat), Harees (ground wheat with meat), and Luqaimat (sweet dumplings).
  2. Al Meshwar Cafeteria: This cafeteria offers a variety of local dishes including Mandi (flavored rice with grilled meat), Madhbi (barbecue-style meat), and Saloona (stew).
  3. Kalba King Restaurant: Famous for its seafood specialties like grilled hammour, jumbo prawns, and fish biryani.
  4. Bab Al Bahr Restaurant: Offers a range of Middle Eastern cuisine including Arabic grills, mezze platters, and fresh seafood.
  5. Saffron Indian Cuisine: A popular Indian restaurant serving authentic North Indian dishes like butter chicken, biryanis, kebabs, and various vegetarian options.
  6. The Chedi Poolside Cabana Bar & Restaurant: Located at The Chedi Al Bait resort, this restaurant offers a fusion of international cuisines along with Arabian specialties in a luxurious setting.
  7. Marna Roastery & Café: Known for its specialty coffee blends sourced from around the world along with light bites like sandwiches and pastries.
  8. Lulu Hypermarket Food Court: Located within the Lulu Hypermarket complex, this food court offers a variety of cuisines including Arabic, Indian, Chinese, Filipino delicacies along with fast-food chains.
  9. Le Pirate Seafood & Grill Restaurant: A waterfront restaurant offering fresh seafood options like lobster thermidor, grilled prawns alongside other international dishes.
  10. Shababeek Restaurant Fujairah Mall Branch: Specializes in Lebanese cuisine such as shawarma wraps or plates served alongside hummus dips and falafel rolls.

Parks and Recreation

  1. Fujairah Corniche: A waterfront promenade with walking and cycling paths, picnic areas, and playgrounds.
  2. Fujairah Adventure Park: A large outdoor adventure park offering activities like zip-lining, rope courses, rock climbing, and hiking trails.
  3. Wadi Wurayah National Park: A protected area known for its stunning natural beauty, with hiking trails leading to waterfalls and pools for swimming.
  4. Al Hayl Castle Park: A historical site featuring a restored castle surrounded by gardens and picnic spots.
  5. Ain al-Madhab Hot Springs Park: Natural hot springs where visitors can relax in the warm mineral-rich waters surrounded by beautiful landscapes.
  6. Dibba Marine Protected Area: Perfect for diving enthusiasts as it offers diverse marine life including coral reefs and shipwrecks.
  7. Kalba Bird of Prey Centre: An educational facility that houses various species of birds of prey such as eagles, falcons, hawks, and owls.
  8. Snoopy Island Beach Resort: Offers snorkeling trips to Snoopy Island where visitors can explore the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life.
  9. Hajar Mountains: Ideal for hiking enthusiasts who can explore the rugged mountainous terrain while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding area.
  10. Al Bidyah Mosque Park: Surrounding the oldest mosque in UAE (Al Bidyah Mosque), this park provides a peaceful environment for relaxation or picnics amidst greenery.

Please note that availability may vary depending on current circumstances or seasons; it’s always recommended to check before planning any visit or activity.


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