Fujairah & East Coast

Separated from the rest of the UAE by the jagged Hajar Mountains, the East Coast offers a complete change of pace and scenery. This region, primarily the Emirate of Fujairah and the exclaves of Sharjah (Khor Fakkan and Kalba), faces the Gulf of Oman and the Indian Ocean. The vibe here is laid-back and focused on nature, making it an ideal "staycation" style destination for families looking to escape the skyscrapers.

The coastline is the main draw. Unlike the calm, shallow waters of the Arabian Gulf, the ocean here is deeper and cooler, teeming with marine life. Snoopy Island (named for its resemblance to the cartoon dog sleeping on his back) is accessible from the beach at Al Aqah. It offers some of the best snorkeling in the country, where children can easily spot sea turtles, colorful reef fish, and occasionally reef sharks in shallow water.

History comes alive at the Fujairah Fort, one of the oldest in the UAE, and the nearby Heritage Village. These sites are small enough to explore without tiring out little legs and provide a glimpse into life before the oil boom. A drive north to Dibba reveals dramatic coastal roads where the mountains plunge directly into the sea, offering views reminiscent of Oman’s Musandam peninsula.

For a unique family outing, visit the Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre and the impressive man-made waterfall carved into the rock face. The Khor Fakkan Corniche is beautifully landscaped with play areas and grassy spots for picnics. Further south in Kalba, the Kalba Mangrove Centre is a fantastic eco-tourism spot. Here, families can kayak through ancient mangrove forests and observe rare birds like the Kingfisher in a protected environment.

Accommodations in this region are largely resort-based. Many hotels offer all-inclusive packages that are great value for families. The pace is slower, the traffic is minimal, and the air is often clearer. It is the perfect spot for families who want to swap shopping malls for seashells and mountains.