Beyond Dubai: Day Trips to Sharjah and the Fujairah East Coast

Dubai is only one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates. Just beyond the city you can discover a very different side of the country: the heritage and culture of Sharjah, and the mountains and quiet beaches of Fujairah on the east coast. Both make easy day trips from Dubai. Here is what each one offers and how to plan your day.

Sharjah: the cultural capital of the UAE

Sharjah sits right next to Dubai, so it is perfect for a half-day trip. It is known as the cultural capital of the UAE, with a calmer, more traditional atmosphere than its famous neighbour.

• Heritage area: restored buildings, narrow lanes and old houses that show how life in the Gulf looked before the oil era.
• Traditional souks: covered markets with spices, textiles, perfumes, gold and souvenirs.
• Mosques: beautiful mosques that are part of the city’s identity; visit respectfully and outside prayer times.
• Waterfront: a relaxed walk along the water to end the visit.

Sharjah has stricter rules on dress and behaviour than Dubai: wear clothes that cover shoulders and knees, and avoid public displays of affection.

Fujairah and the east coast: mountains and the Gulf of Oman

For a full day out, cross the Hajar Mountains from Dubai to the east coast of the UAE. The landscape changes completely: rocky peaks and valleys, small villages and the beaches of the Gulf of Oman.

• The mountain road: the drive across the Hajar Mountains is part of the experience, with views over the valleys.
• Fujairah: the only emirate located entirely on the Gulf of Oman, with a coast that feels far from the city.
• Al Bidyah Mosque: a small, simple mosque known as the oldest in the country.
• Beaches: time to enjoy the sea and the quieter beaches of the east coast.

Sharjah or Fujairah: which one to choose?

• Short on time? Choose the Sharjah City Tour: a half-day trip that leaves the rest of your day free.
• Love nature and the sea? Choose the Fujairah & East Coast Tour: a full day of mountains and beaches.
• Interested in culture? Sharjah is the better choice; combine it with a Dubai city tour on another day to compare old and new.

Best time to go

The cooler months, from about October to April, are the most comfortable for walking around the souks and enjoying the beaches. In summer, plan outdoor visits early in the day and bring plenty of water. Fridays and religious holidays can change opening times at mosques and markets, so we confirm the itinerary with you when you book.

What to wear and bring

• Light clothes that cover shoulders and knees; for mosque visits, women usually also cover their hair.
• Comfortable shoes for walking.
• Swimwear and a towel if you plan to enjoy the beach on the east coast.
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat and water.

More day trips from Dubai

Want to see more of the UAE? Visit the capital on our Abu Dhabi City Tour from Dubai, or head north to Ras Al Khaimah for the Jebel Jais zipline (read our Jebel Jais zipline guide). Back in Dubai, end the day with a dhow dinner cruise or a classic desert safari. First time in the UAE? Start with our 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors.

How to book with CanalMarket Travel

Choose your date on the tour page and send your booking, or browse all our tours in the UAE. We confirm the itinerary, pickup and availability before you pay, and you pay securely by card. Questions first? Contact us by email or WhatsApp and we will help you plan your day beyond Dubai.