Khorfakkan

Khorfakkan is a small town on the shore of the Gulf of Oman, about an hour and a half drive from Dubai (located on the Persian Gulf). The drive there takes you through the mountains via a high-speed highway, with sections passing through tunnels—a surprising sight in the UAE.

The town is in a large bay with a long, wide beach. Part of the beach has been developed into a promenade with snack bars, showers, and restrooms. The other half of the beach is still under construction, but this doesn’t prevent visitors from strolling along the coast and swimming in the shallow waters during low tide and calm weather.

Near the center of the bay, you’ll find tourist boats along the shore. These boats can take you to Shark Island (photos, Google Maps), just around the corner. The island features shallow waters, coral reefs, colorful fish, and spots for snorkeling, diving, and picnicking. The round trip, including about 10 minutes on the island, is a 30-minute adventure.

GPS: 25.360658, 56.349235
Google Maps

Points of interest in the city (all within walking distance along the promenade):

• Khorfakkan Amphitheatre – a large amphitheater located right by the seaside.
  GPS: 25.368385, 56.347658
  Google Maps
  Photos
• Khorfakkan Waterfalls – a waterfall that appears to cascade down from the mountains.
  GPS: 25.366756, 56.348216
  Google Maps
  Photos
• Historical Village of Khor Fakkan (heritage vllage) – an authentic site replicating an old settlement. It features bustling market stalls with numerous shops and cafés and narrow streets lined with tiny, lifeless houses. Nearby, you can also find archaeological excavations of an ancient military fort.
  GPS: 25.348378, 56.358621
  Google Maps
  Photos
• Seafront Promenade – a scenic promenade stretching along the entire city, perfect for leisurely walks by the sea.
  Google Maps
  Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4