Located on UAE's eastern coast along the Gulf of Oman, this commercial port city has grown from a small fishing village into a key maritime hub with 17th-century fortifications.
Fujairah City, the capital of the UAE's easternmost emirate, sits between the Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman. You'll find modern high-rises in the business district, while the coastal area includes the restored 1670 Fujairah Fort and the massive Sheikh Zayed Mosque. During winter months, the weekly bull butting events along the coastal road bring together locals and visitors to watch this centuries-old sport.
Location on the Gulf of Oman
Fujairah City extends along the Gulf of Oman coastline, making it the only Emirati capital on the country's east coast. The Hajar Mountains rise to the west of the city. The coastal location keeps temperatures slightly lower than other UAE cities, with winter temperatures averaging 25°C and summer highs reaching 41°C.
Getting Around Fujairah
Hamad Bin Abdulla Road serves as the city's main artery, connecting major neighborhoods and business areas. While the summer heat makes walking impractical, you can easily find taxis throughout the city. Buses run to Dubai every hour from 6 AM to 10 PM, with tickets costing 25 AED one way.
Al Aqah Beach Area
Al Aqah Beach, 45 kilometers north of the city, has clear waters ideal for diving and snorkeling. Two sunken ships and the car cemetery site from the 1980s make popular dive spots where you can see turtles, black tip sharks, and schools of fish. The beachfront hotels rent equipment for snorkeling, paddleboarding, and other water activities.
Religious Architecture
The white-domed Sheikh Zayed Mosque can hold 28,000 worshippers, making it the UAE's second-largest mosque. In contrast, the small Al-Bidyah Mosque from 1446 continues to serve worshippers as the UAE's oldest operating mosque. Its mud-brick walls house a prayer hall with arches and ventilation openings in the ceiling.
Shopping Districts
City Centre Fujairah (opened 2012) houses 105 stores across three floors. The commercial district includes three other major centers: Fujairah Mall (opened 2016), LuLu Mall (opened 2014), and Century Mall. In the Masafi area, local market vendors sell fresh produce, handmade pottery, and hand-woven carpets.
Bull Butting Events
Every Friday from October to March, bulls compete along the coastal road from 5 PM until sunset. This Portuguese-influenced sport takes place in a controlled environment with safety barriers. Spectators can watch for free from designated viewing areas.
Museums and Historical Sites
The Fujairah Museum (open daily 8 AM-8 PM, 5 AED entry) displays archaeological finds from the region, including artifacts from the sixth millennium BC. The restored Fujairah Fort survived a British attack in the early 20th century. You can climb the defensive towers for views over the old town. The fort complex once served as both a military fortification and a residence for the ruling family.
