A coastal city on UAE's eastern shore with a crescent-shaped beach, mountainous backdrop and deep-water port. Known for its 16th century Portuguese fort and calm waters.
Khor Fakkan stretches along the Gulf of Oman coastline. You can climb the 16th-century Al Rabi Tower for views across the bay, swim with blacktip reef sharks at Shark Island, or walk past the 25-meter waterfall in Shees Park. In the morning, local fishermen sell their catch at the fish market while vendors display fresh dates and spices at the nearby fruit souq.
Getting to Khor Fakkan
Drive 130 kilometers east from Dubai, taking about 90 minutes through mountain tunnels and along coastal roads. Take a public bus from Dubai or Sharjah, or drive yourself via Khorfakkan Road. The route passes through several tunnels in the Hajar Mountains, with limestone cliffs and deep wadis visible along the way.
Swimming and Snorkeling Spots
Swim at Khor Fakkan Beach on the northern edge of town, where the water stays calm near the coral reefs. Book a boat trip to Shark Island to swim alongside blacktip reef sharks and schools of angelfish. Scuba dive at Coral Gardens to see crocodile fish and guitar sharks, or explore Anemone Gardens where seahorses hide among the coral and young barracudas swim in groups.
Mountain Activities
Take the Al Rabi hiking trail to see cargo ships entering the port and local fishing boats in the bay. Walk through Shees Park's 11,300 square meters of stone paths that wind around granite boulders. The park has 32 shaded benches and a 25-meter waterfall. Go kayaking on Al Rafisah Dam's reservoir or follow the shoreline walking paths beneath the 1,000-meter mountain peaks.
Historical Sites
Explore Najd Al Miqsar village's stone houses from the 1700s, built into the mountain slopes. Look for Portuguese watchtowers from the 1500s on the surrounding hills - remnants from when Indian Ocean traders stopped at the port. The new amphitheater seats 3,500 people in Roman-style architecture and includes a 45-meter waterfall.
Local Food and Markets
Visit the fish market on the southern corniche early morning to see fishermen selling grouper, tuna, and kingfish. Browse through stalls of Omani dates, Iranian saffron, and local produce at the adjacent fruit and vegetable souq. Find small restaurants along the waterfront serving grilled fish with Arabic rice and Middle Eastern mezze.
Weather and Best Times to Visit
Plan your trip between November and April when temperatures range from 18-30°C (64-86°F). Summer months from May to September see temperatures up to 40°C (104°F) with high humidity. Rain and occasional thunderstorms occur from January to March.
