Making the most of Fujairah
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
Cruise vessels use the Port of Fujairah, a major container and oil-transfer harbour. A complimentary shuttle carries passengers to the gate, where taxis are available. The town centre is 5 miles away and costs about 10 euro per taxi.
Look towards the harbour and at least 50 large tankers may be waiting to load Arabian gold: oil. It is an impressive view.
One of the seven emirates forming the United Arab Emirates, Fujairah occupies the Arabian Peninsula's eastern shore beside the Indian Ocean, beyond the Gulf. Broad sandy beaches sit below the rugged Haijar mountains, giving the emirate a contrasting landscape. Visitor numbers are slowly growing, particularly among those seeking a different sun, sea and sand holiday. Fujairah has also developed substantially in recent years because of its strategic position between east and west, and today has a busy economy...
Women should replace shorts with trousers or skirts falling below the knee; knees, cleavage and upper arms should remain covered.
Getting around
Nothing surrounds the port, so consider spending the day at a beach resort. Khor Fakkan, within the Emirate of Sharjah, is the nearest reasonable beach town, 12 km away or about 20 euro by taxi. Sharjah is one of the more conservative emirates, and western-style swimwear is not permitted on the beach.
Alternatively, take a jeep excursion into the dunes.
A cruise-organised trip is probably the easiest way to see old forts and other ancient sites in the region.
Food and shopping
Potential purchases include ceramics, rugs, electronics and clothes, while cameras and photographic equipment are regarded as good value. Dana Plaza lies 3 miles from the port and Fujairah Trade centre 6 miles away. Haggling is normal in souqs and small shops, whereas department stores and larger retailers use fixed prices.
Around 7 duty-free shops operate within the harbour, suitable for a short browse.
Money
The United Arab Emirates dirham is the currency, abbreviated AED or locally dhs. It is pegged to USD, making fluctuations against that currency unlikely.
Staying connected
Arabic is official, although most of the population does not speak it because Iranian, Indian, Asian and Western expatriates in Dubai outnumber Arabs and generally know little Arabic. English serves as the common language.
Opening Hours and
Normal shopping times are 0900-1300 and 1600-2100 daily, though many stores trade continuously. On Fri, shops shut for prayers from 1130-1330.