Our exploration of the UAE took us to the fascinating Emirate of Fujairah, a region rich in history, boasting stunning natural beauty, and offering a glimpse into traditional life. Fujairah holds a significant place in the history of the Arabian Peninsula, believed to be the first home for immigrants who arrived from the southeast, later becoming known as the Phoenicians, renowned seafarers and traders. The region also saw immigrants from Yemen following the collapse of the Ma'areb Dam, from whom the local Sharqis tribes are said to descend. Known in ancient times as the 'land of the sea giants,' a name that hints at its maritime significance and perhaps powerful historical figures, Fujairah has yielded some of the most important archaeological finds in the entire Gulf region. Excavations here have revealed evidence of man's presence dating back to the Iron Age, underscoring the area's long and layered history.
Geographically, Fujairah is uniquely positioned, looking out over the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean. This location has not only shaped its history but also blessed it with one of the richest marine environments on the planet. The waters here are teeming with diverse marine life, making it a prime spot for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.
For anyone driving to Fujairah from Dubai, a quintessential stop along the way is the vibrant Friday Market. Held every Friday (which is a holiday in Dubai), this market springs up on both sides of the road, creating a lively and colorful spectacle. As you drive past, you'll see stalls overflowing with the season's freshest fruits and vegetables, a tempting display of local produce. The market is also a treasure trove for those seeking handicrafts. We found a great selection ranging from beautiful carpets with intricate designs to interesting curios and small souvenirs, perfect for taking a piece of the local culture home. A particularly popular item was the variety of clay pots in various sizes, going for really cheap, offering a rustic and authentic souvenir option. The atmosphere at the Friday Market is typically bustling and energetic, filled with the sights, sounds, and smells of a traditional Arabian market.
Our journey through Fujairah's historical landscape led us to the remarkably preserved Al Badiyah Mosque (also known as Al Bidyah). This is a truly significant site as the oldest known mosque in the UAE. It is nestled in a small village in the emirate of Fujairah, located about 50 km north of the regional center. The mosque is sometimes referred to as the Ottoman Mosque, named not after the historical empire, but after the person credited with its construction. The mosque's design is striking in its simplicity and resilience. It is a small, square structure with an area of just 53 square meters (570 sq ft), built using materials readily available in the local environment. The walls are primarily constructed from stones of various sizes and mud bricks, coated in many layers of whitewashed plaster, giving it a simple yet enduring appearance.
The roof is particularly unique, featuring four squat, helical domes. These domes are supported by only one centrally placed pillar within the prayer hall, which also forms the ceiling structure above the pillar. Entrance to the mosque is through humble but sturdy double-winged wooden doors. Inside, the prayer hall is minimalist but functional, containing a small mihrab (the niche indicating the direction of Mecca), a simple pulpit, and a series of arches and openings. The central pillar effectively divides the internal space into four equal squares. A number of small decorative windows are strategically placed to allow natural light and air to stream into the mosque, creating a peaceful and airy interior. Cube-shaped spaces carved into the thick walls serve as storage for copies of the Quran and other religious books. What is perhaps most moving is that this ancient mosque is still in operation, continuing to host daily prayers, offering a tangible connection to centuries of faith and community.
We also made a stop at Al Bithnah Fort. This reputedly 360-year-old fort occupies a strategic position on a hill at the edge of date gardens, offering commanding views of the surrounding area. The fort is surrounded by the remains of old town houses, hinting at a larger historical settlement around the defensive structure. The fort bears the scars of conflict, having been severely damaged in the early twentieth century by a British bombardment. However, it has since been recently restored to its former glory, allowing visitors to appreciate its original architecture and understand its historical importance in defending the region.
Near Al Bithnah Fort is the Fujairah Heritage Village, which provides a living reconstruction of traditional life on the east coast of the UAE. The village features a good selection of traditional houses known as 'arish', constructed from palm fronds, and fishing boats called 'shasha', also made from palm fronds, showcasing the ingenuity of utilizing local materials for shelter and sustenance. These structures provide an interesting backdrop to the village's efforts to recreate traditional life, likely including demonstrations of traditional crafts and activities.
For a touch of coastal relaxation and unique natural beauty, we visited Snoopy Island. This distinctive rocky marine outcrop is located about a hundred meters offshore from the Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort at Al Aqah. The island's name is immediately apparent upon seeing it; it genuinely does indeed look something like the famous cartoon dog Snoopy sleeping atop his doghouse, a charming natural formation. The Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort itself is situated at an excellent location, offering clear views of the entire beach and the waters surrounding Snoopy Island. The waters around Snoopy Island are particularly well renowned for snorkeling, attracting visitors eager to explore the abundant marine life in this accessible location. The hotel complex is a scenic blend of a beautiful beach, lush trees, green lawns, and comfortable chalets and bungalows. It provides ample amenities for a relaxing stay, featuring a swimming pool, several bars, and two restaurants, along with a dedicated diving center for those wanting to explore the marine environment more extensively. Most rooms at the resort look out towards the expanse of the Indian Ocean, while the rugged Hajar mountains form an impressive backdrop, creating a stunning contrast between the coast and the mountains. Once you step inside the resort area, the charming landscape and relaxed atmosphere will soon put a smile on your face, making it an ideal spot to unwind and enjoy Fujairah's coastal beauty.
Recent Posts
