Khor Fakkan, Sharjah - Timings, Water Sports, Best Time to Visit

At a distance of 125 km from Sharjah and 141 km from Dubai, Khor Fakkan is a city and exclave of the Emirate of Sharjah, located on the east coast of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), facing the Gulf of Oman. It is one of the major tourist attractions in the emirate of Sharjah.

Khor Fakkan is the second largest on the east coast after Fujairah City and is set on the bay of Khor Fakkan, which means 'Creek of Two Jaws'. It is the site of Khor Fakkan Container Terminal, the only natural deep-sea port in the region and one of the major container ports in the UAE. The city is geographically surrounded by the Hajar Mountains on its western end. From beaches to mountains, historic castles, museums and mosques - Khor Fakkan has plenty of attractions.

The main attraction of the town is Khor Fakkan Beach. Situated on the northeastern end of the city, Khorfakkan Beach has a thriving coral reef, which is a testament to the government's conservation efforts. Naturally, it has become a favorite spot for marine life enthusiasts. This crescent beach is famous for the spectacular sunrise and sunset across the sea. Be it snorkeling, scuba diving, parasailing, jet skiing or any other water sport - the Khor Fakkan Beach offers fun-filled and thrilling activities. In the backdrop of the Khorfakkan Beach are the rocky Hajar Mountains which look beautiful, and rustic.

There are many smaller islands and ocean spots famous for diving and snorkeling. Of these, Shark Island is the most famous one and it is an idyllic spot for swimming and sunbathing. Schools of fish, anemones and sea turtles make it a treat for snorkellers, while divers flock here for the beautiful rock formations teeming with moray eels, rays, and Arabian angelfish. Shark Island is located a short boat-ride away from Khor Fakkan Beach. There are shacks on the beach where you can rent snorkels, fins, and masks. Local dive centers can organize day trips and equipment rental for scuba divers. It's also a lovely spot for a beach picnic.

Located close to Khor Fakkan Beach is the ruined fort constructed by Portuguese Captain Gaspar Leite around 1635 CE. There are signboards depicting the architecture and history of the fort. One can also visit 200-years old Salem Al Mutawa Mosque while in Khor Fakkan. The mosque showcases unique Arabic style architecture and interiors, making it a tourist spot for the visitors. The Salem Al Mutawa Mosque is worth visiting during the evening hours as the view of the mosque lit by different colored lights is truly an amazing sight.

Parasailing Timings: 9 AM - 7 PM from Sunday - Thursday & 9 AM - 4 PM from Friday - Saturday

Parasailing: AED. 135 for Single Person & AED. 249 for Two Persons