Fujairah and the East Coast in a Day

A day on the UAE’s east coast: the oldest mosque in the UAE, Fujairah Fort, snorkelling and fresh seafood.

Photo: Samy Mar Boy · Unsplash License · Unsplash

The UAE’s east coast faces the Gulf of Oman, with mountains running down to quiet beaches. Fujairah is perfect for a day of history, snorkelling and seafood.

Plan your day

  • Getting there: about 1.5–2 hours by road from Dubai, through the Hajar Mountains.
  • Best season: October to May for the beach.
  • Pack: swimwear, a cover-up and modest clothing for the mosque.

Morning: Al Bidya Mosque and Fujairah Fort

Drive up the coast to Al Bidya Mosque, believed to be the oldest mosque still in use in the UAE, then visit the restored Fujairah Fort and the old town.

Midday: snorkelling

Take a boat or swim out to the reefs near the coast to see colourful fish and, if you are lucky, turtles. Your guide can recommend a licensed operator and the best conditions.

Afternoon: beach and seafood

Relax on the beach, then enjoy fresh seafood in a harbour restaurant. On the way back, stop at the roadside market near the mountains for fruit, pottery and carpets.

Why go with a guide

The east coast is spread out. A guide makes the long drive easy and times the day around the sea. Explore Fujairah.