Things To Do
in Khawr Fakkān
Khawr Fakkān is a picturesque coastal town located in the emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. It is known for its stunning natural beauty, with rugged mountains providing a dramatic backdrop to the azure waters of the Arabian Sea. The town is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering opportunities for diving, snorkeling, and fishing.
Visitors can also explore Khawr Fakkān's vibrant souks, bustling markets, and traditional Arabian architecture.
- "Marhaban" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Afwan" - You're welcome
- "Inshallah" - God willing
- "Ahlan wa sahlan" - Welcome
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $7
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing swim at Khorfakkan Beach. Enjoy the beautiful sunrise and take a stroll along the shore.
Visit the bustling local market to shop for souvenirs and experience the local culture. Grab lunch at a seaside café serving fresh seafood.
Watch the sunset from the iconic Khorfakkan amphitheater. Enjoy dinner at a restaurant with stunning views of the coastline.
Take an invigorating hike in the nearby Hajar Mountains. Witness lush landscapes and unique rock formations.
Relax with a picnic at Al Rafisah Dam while enjoying the serene surroundings. Explore the walking trails or rent a kayak for some fun on the water.
Head back to the city and enjoy a traditional Emirati dinner. Reflect on your adventures while watching the stars under the clear sky.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with picturesque beaches and mountains.
- Rich cultural heritage and historical sites, including ancient forts.
- Tourism facilities and activities, such as water sports and hiking.
- Less crowded compared to major UAE cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
- Strategic location with easy access to both the coast and the Al Hajar mountains.
- Limited nightlife and entertainment options compared to larger cities.
- Hot climate, particularly in the summer months, can be uncomfortable.
- Public transport options are limited, requiring reliance on cars.
- Economic opportunities may not be as robust as in bigger urban centers.
- Seasonal tourist fluctuations can affect local businesses.
Best Activities in Khawr Fakkān
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy hiking through the stunning Al Hajar Mountains in the Khawr Fakkān region, offering breathtaking views and a chance to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Explore the underwater world of the Arabian Gulf by snorkeling or diving in Khawr Fakkān, where you can encounter a diverse range of marine life and coral reefs.
Spend a relaxing day at the beautiful beaches of Khawr Fakkān, enjoying the sun, sand, and sea. Popular spots include Khor Fakkan Beach and Al Rabi Tower Beach.
Tours
Uncover the best of Khawr Fakkān with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Khawr Fakkān
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains, providing great photo opportunities.
Provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the city of Khawr Fakkān, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts.
This waterfront promenade offers picturesque views of the coast and the surrounding area, making it a perfect location for capturing scenic shots.
Food in Khawr Fakkān
Khawr Fakkān Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Emirati dish made from wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a porridge-like consistency, often seasoned with cinnamon and sugar. It can be found at local Emirati restaurants and cafes like Al Khayam Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A flavorful rice dish with tender, spiced meat (usually chicken, goat, or lamb), garnished with fried onions and nuts. It's a staple at eateries such as Al Dhafra Restaurant and Café.
Deep-fried dumplings made from flour, sugar, and cardamom, often drizzled with date syrup or honey. Look for them at local street food stalls or sweet shops like Al Jawzaa Sweets.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Khawr Fakkān better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide range of fresh produce, spices, and local delicacies. Visitors can sample freshly prepared snacks like sambousek and falafel from street food vendors within the market.
Along the picturesque Corniche, visitors can explore a variety of street food stalls offering grilled meats, shawarma, falafel wraps, and other Middle Eastern delights.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to greet people with respect, using traditional Arabic greetings such as 'As-salamu alaykum' (peace be upon you) and responding with 'Wa alaykum as-salam' (and peace be upon you).
Dress modestly in public places, especially for women. Avoid wearing revealing or tight-fitting clothing to show respect for local cultural norms.
Respect local customs and traditions, including during religious observations and dietary practices. Be mindful of Ramadan and refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Khawr Fakkān with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Khawr Fakkān
Ensure a smooth experience
In Khawr Fakkān, tipping is generally appreciated but not always expected. A service charge is often included in bills at restaurants and hotels, so it's advisable to check before leaving an additional tip. If a service charge is not included, a 10-15% tip is customary for good service.
Payment in Khawr Fakkān is primarily done using the local currency, United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. It's important to carry cash for smaller vendors and markets. ATMs are also readily available for cash withdrawals.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Ideal time to visit with mild temperatures and blooming gardens
Another great time to visit with cooler temperatures and clear skies
Peak tourist season with comfortable temperatures for outdoor activities
Hot and humid, but less crowded with good deals on accommodations
Khawr Fakkān at Night
Hiking in Khawr Fakkān
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A prominent mountain offering challenging trails with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Ideal for experienced hikers.
Located a bit further from Khawr Fakkān, this trail provides a scenic experience through the Hatta mountains, suitable for hikers of all levels.
A picturesque valley with various trails that meander through lush greenery and natural rock formations, perfect for day hikes.
This coastal trail offers a combination of beach views and mountain scenery, making it a great choice for a leisurely hike.
These mountains provide numerous hiking opportunities with varying difficulty levels, showcasing the natural beauty of the UAE.
Aiports
How to reach Khawr Fakkān by plane.
The primary international airport serving Dubai and one of the busiest airports in the world.
An airport in Sharjah serving as a hub for low-cost airlines and cargo.
The second largest airport in the UAE, serving the capital city of Abu Dhabi.
A new airport intended to accommodate the growing air traffic demand in Dubai.
An international airport serving Muscat, Oman, significant for flights to and from the UAE.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Citizens of the UAE, comprising a significant part of the population in Khawr Fakkān.
Includes a large number of expatriates from countries such as India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh.
Expatriates from other Arab countries, contributing to the demographic diversity.
Includes expatriates from Europe and North America, although they represent a smaller percentage.
Includes expatriates from countries such as the Philippines, Sri Lanka, and Nepal.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Khawr Fakkān, with numerous local clubs and a strong following among the community.
Cricket enjoys a large fan base in Khawr Fakkān, especially among expatriate communities, with many local tournaments and matches held regularly.
Basketball is increasingly popular, with many youth playing in schools and local parks, as well as organized competitions.
Volleyball is played frequently along the beaches and in recreational facilities, attracting both casual players and serious athletes.
Given its coastal location, Khawr Fakkān offers a variety of water sports activities such as kayaking, jet skiing, and diving.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Khawr Fakkān.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Emirati cuisine leans towards meat-based dishes, many restaurants and cafes in Khawr Fakkān offer vegetarian options such as hearty salads, falafel, and vegetable curries. Vegan options can be found by opting for dishes free of dairy and meat products.
Visitors with gluten restrictions can indulge in grilled meats, salads, and rice-based dishes, and should communicate their dietary needs clearly to ensure safe food preparation.