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Dubai is known for its luxurious shopping malls, resorts, and thrilling desert safaris, but what if I say there is an equally lesser-known treasure that deserves equal attention? 

Khorfakkan is a beautiful town by the sea, surrounded by the tall Hajar Mountains and the clear water of the Arabian Gulf. It is full of nature, culture, and fun activities, making it one of the great places to visit in the UAE.

Whether you love water sports, relaxing on the beach, or exploring history, Khorfakkan has something for you. Here are 10 exciting things to do to enjoy your trip to this amazing destination.

Activities To Do 

The Khorfakkan Waterfall

The waterfall in Khorfakkan is one of the natural attractions. It flows continuously from the Hajar mountains. This place is the perfect escape for those who love nature, as the waterfall is surrounded by lush greenery and rocks. The best time for this activity is between October and February, which is cooler than the remaining months.

• Timings: 24/7

• Distance from Sharjah: 1 hour 12 minutes by car

Wadi Shi Raafisah Dam

Wadi Shi Raafish Dam was originally constructed to store rainwater and streams from the mountains. However, due to its stunning views of the surrounding valleys and peaks, it is popular for picnics and wildlife spotting. If you love wildlife, this place is worth visiting, as it is known to be home to various bird species, fish, and other wildlife. 

• Distance from Sharjah: 1 hour 6 minutes by car

Al Rabi Hiking Trail

For all the hike lovers, Al Rabi Trail is a must-visit. These hiking mountains offer stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and nearby mountain ranges. Along the way, you’ll discover unique flora and fauna, including various bird and insect species. Winter is the ideal time to embark on this adventure.

• Distance from Sharjah: 1 hour 11 minutes by car

Shees Park

Located between the scenic mountains, Shees Park offers many attractions. Here, you can enjoy a man-made waterfall, a children’s play area, barbecue spots, and an observatory with incredible views. Additionally, Shees Park is part of the Wadi Shees Nature Trail, making it a perfect spot for a walk.

• Contact: +971-09-208-3555

• Timings: 08:00 AM – 10:00 PM

• Distance from Sharjah: 58 minutes by car

Khorfakkan Beach

Khorfakkan Beach is a stunning crescent-shaped coastline offering both relaxation and adventure. Well, from water sports like paddleboarding, jet skiing, and kayaking to chilling under the sun, the beach has something for everyone. With different restaurants and cafes nearby, it is a great spot for families, friends and food lovers.

• Distance from Sharjah: 1 hour 12 minutes by car

Khorfakkan Amphitheatre

Inspired by Roman architecture, the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre is a unique cultural venue that can easily accommodate up to 3,600 people. Khorfakkan Amphitheatre's great columns and arches make it a popular spot for photography, while the amphitheatre hosts various events and performances year-round.

• Contact: +971 6 512 3440

• Timings: Open 24/7

• Distance from Sharjah: 1 hour 11 minutes by car

Shark Island

Shark Island is known as the Mini Maldives of the UAE and as a haven for snorkelers and divers. It is located on the southeastern coast of Khorfakkan and this island is full of marine life, which includes turtles, coral reefs, and even sharks like reef and tiger sharks.

• Contact: +971 9 222 2252

• Timings: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

• Distance from Sharjah: 1 hour 13 minutes by car

Al Adwani Tower

For all history lovers, Al Adwani Tower will take you back to the 17th century as this ancient tower offers scenic views of the mountains and Khorfakkan port. This tower was originally constructed as a lighthouse to guide ships to reach their destination safely but now it is a historical site to explore.

• Distance from Sharjah: 1 hour 12 minutes by car

Al Suhub Rest Area

Located 600 meters above sea level, Al Suhub offers a scenic viewpoint of the Khorfakkan coastline and surrounding mountains. There’s also an on-site Fen Café serving delicious meals and beverages. So, in short, it is a perfect spot to relax and drink while enjoying the panoramic views.

• Timings: Open 24/7

• Entry Fee: AED 20/hour for parking

Al Khor Kayak

Al Khor Kayak is the place to explore the peaceful mangroves of Khorfakkan with a kayaking adventure. You can enjoy and relax while watching calm waters and spotting wildlife like dolphins, turtles, and exotic birds. Here facilities for paddleboarding and fishing are also available.

• Timings: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

• Contact: +971-56-616-2111

• Distance from Sharjah: 1 hour 6 minutes by car

FAQs

1. What is the best time to visit Khorfakkan?

The best time to visit Khorfakkan is from October to April when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, beach outings, and water sports.

2. Can I go snorkelling or scuba diving in Khorfakkan?

Absolutely yes! Shark Island and Sira Khorfakkan are famous spots for snorkelling and scuba diving, where you can see beautiful marine life and coral reefs while renting equipment from local drivers.

To sum up, Khorfakkan is one of the hidden gems in the UAE which offers a mixture of adventure, relaxation and culture. From exploring history to hiking and relaxing at the beach, khorfakkan has everything.