Fujairah East Coast: Diving, Beaches & Coastal Escapes

Introduction: The UAE's Other Coast

While most UAE beaches face the Arabian Gulf, Fujairah offers something unique - the country's only coastline on the Gulf of Oman. This east coast delivers clearer waters, better marine life, and a quieter atmosphere that feels worlds away from Dubai's bustle.

For divers and snorkelers, Fujairah is the UAE's undisputed champion. For beach lovers seeking tranquility, it's a 90-minute escape to a different world.

Snoopy Island

The UAE's most famous snorkeling destination - a small rocky island that (sort of) resembles the cartoon dog.

What Makes It Special

• Marine life: Blacktip reef sharks, turtles, rays, colorful fish
• Accessibility: Swim or kayak from the beach (200m)
• Both sides: Different marine ecosystems on each side
• Visibility: Often 10-20 meters

How to Visit

• From Sandy Beach Hotel: Direct beach access, rent equipment
• From Le Méridien Al Aqah: Day pass includes beach access
• Equipment rental: Snorkel sets from AED 50-80
• Kayak rental: AED 50-100/hour

Best Time to Visit

• Season: October to May (clearer water, calmer seas)
• Time: Early morning for best visibility and fewer people
• Avoid: Rough sea days (check forecast)

Dibba

A town split between three countries (UAE, Oman, Sharjah enclave) offering excellent diving and a laid-back vibe.

Diving from Dibba

• Dive sites: Multiple sites accessible by boat
• Marine life: Whale sharks (seasonal), reef sharks, turtles, rays
• Dive centers: Several PADI-certified operators
• Prices: 2-tank dive from AED 350-450
• Courses: PADI Open Water from AED 1,500

Dibba Rock

• What: Famous dive site, underwater rock formation
• Depth: 5-18 meters (suitable for beginners)
• Highlights: Nudibranchs, moray eels, lionfish, clownfish

Musandam Day Trips

From Dibba, you can easily access Oman's stunning Musandam Peninsula:

• Dhow cruises: Full-day trips from AED 250
• What's included: Snorkeling, lunch, dolphin watching
• Visa: Usually arranged by tour operator

Al Aqah Beach

The main tourist beach strip in Fujairah, home to several resorts.

Beach Character

• Sand: Coarser than Dubai beaches
• Water: Clearer, more marine life
• Waves: Can be rougher than the Gulf side
• Crowds: Much quieter than Dubai, even on weekends

Resorts on Al Aqah

Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort

• Beach: Large private beach, Snoopy Island views
• Day pass: AED 150-250 including pool
• Dive center: On-site PADI center
• Best for: Families, couples

Fairmont Fujairah Beach Resort

• Beach: 500m private beach
• Style: Luxury with mountain backdrop
• Day pass: AED 200-300
• Best for: Luxury seekers

Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort

• Location: Closest to Snoopy Island
• Style: Budget-friendly, basic but clean
• Day pass: From AED 75
• Best for: Budget travelers, snorkelers

Diving & Snorkeling Guide

Best Dive Sites

1. Dibba Rock: Beginner-friendly, excellent marine life
2. Shark Island: Blacktip reef sharks, advanced
3. Inchcape 1 & 2: Wrecks with coral growth
4. Martini Rock: Colorful soft corals
5. Snoopy Island: Shore diving/snorkeling

What You'll See

• Common: Clownfish, parrotfish, butterflyfish, moray eels
• Regular: Sea turtles, rays, reef sharks
• Seasonal: Whale sharks (October-May)
• Lucky sightings: Dolphins, guitar sharks

Dive Operators

• Al Boom Diving: PADI 5-star, multiple locations
• Freestyle Divers: Dibba-based, experienced guides
• Scuba 2000: Long-established operator
• Nemo Diving Center: Budget-friendly options

Other Beaches

Khorfakkan Beach

• Location: Sharjah enclave, stunning bay
• Highlight: Al Rafisah Dam nearby
• Vibe: Local families, free access
• Facilities: Corniche development with cafes

Fujairah Beach (Corniche)

• Location: Fujairah city
• Access: Public beach, free
• Facilities: Basic amenities nearby

Water Sports

• Jet skiing: Available at resorts, from AED 200
• Kayaking: Great around Snoopy Island, from AED 50/hour
• Paddleboarding: Calmer mornings best, from AED 75/hour
• Fishing: Deep sea trips from Dibba, from AED 400/person
• Parasailing: Limited availability, check with resorts

Getting to Fujairah's East Coast

From Dubai

• Route 1 (E88): Through Masafi, 90 mins to Al Aqah
• Route 2 (E44): Through Sharjah, slightly longer but scenic
• Traffic: Friday mornings can be busy
• Tip: Leave early to maximize beach time

By Taxi

• From Dubai: AED 250-350 one way
• Tip: Arrange return pickup or use resort taxi

Where to Eat

At Resorts

• Swaad (Le Méridien): Indian cuisine with sea views
• Drift (Fairmont): Beach club dining
• Views (Le Méridien): International buffet

Local Options

• Dibba restaurants: Fresh seafood, local prices
• Al Meshwar: Popular Arabic restaurant
• Fish markets: Buy fresh, have it cooked

Insider Tips

1. Book diving in advance: Popular weekends sell out
2. Bring reef-safe sunscreen: Protect the marine life
3. Check sea conditions: Rough seas can close dive sites
4. Stay overnight: Better than rushing back to Dubai
5. Friday brunch: Resorts offer excellent brunches
6. Early morning snorkeling: Best visibility before boats arrive
7. Whale shark season: October-November best chances

Frequently Asked Questions

Plan Your Visit

Fujairah's East Coast offers the UAE's best underwater experiences and a peaceful alternative to Dubai's crowded beaches. Whether you're a certified diver seeking reef sharks or a first-time snorkeler curious about marine life, this coast delivers.

Planning your East Coast adventure? Find dive operators, beach resorts, and restaurants on GoProfiled.