Khor Fakkan

The name Khor Fakkan translates to ‘Creek of the Two Jaws’ reflecting its setting in a splendid bay flanked on either side by two headlands. This is Sharjah’s largest town on the east coast located midway between Dibba Al Hisn and Fujairah, with the focal point of the economy centred on the expanding container terminal and port. A long stretch of sandy beach backed by a promenade runs alongside the bay and is a pleasant place to wander.

The Oceanic Hotel & Resort (+9719238 5111) is tucked into one of the headlands with mature gardens, its own large expanse of white-sand beach, water sports, pool and a good diving centre.

Set up in the mountains above the town is the Al Rifaisa Dam – a holding centre to contain floodwater and to serve the settlements below.

Wadi Wurrayah is a popular natural beauty site located some 15 kilometres inland from Khor Fakkan. Accessible by four-wheel drive vehicle, the wadi offers a deep all year round pool with a seasonal waterfall.