Sharjah: the coolest destination for adventurers

The Emirate of Sharjah comprises of incredibly diverse terrains, making it a dream destination for an adventure lover. If you are a fan of high octane, adrenaline-fuelled thrills, Sharjah is where you should head to for your next vacation. Here, you can spend your days paddling the calm coastal waters amid lush mangrove forests; or dive the depths, swimming with some incredible marine life. On land, you can hike past historic forts on rugged mountain trails, go birdwatching at one of many nature reserves, or get your adrenaline pumping as you slide down a towering sand dune in a 4X4. Here’s our checklist for your thrilling Sharjah sojourn.

With breathtaking panoramic views, historical landmarks and rich archaeological treasure troves, Mleiha is sought after by adventure lovers, nature lovers, and history buffs alike. You can opt for a guided hike or overnight trek from the Mleiha Archaeological Centre to nearby Fossil Rock, a natural rock formation. It is visible from over 25 km away. You can also opt to explore the vast Mleiha area on a FatBoy bike (with extra-wide tyres for riding in the desert) with your guide, who will show you an impressive array of archaeological and historical sites, point out where you can climb soft dunes and allow you to get up close to nature, birds, reptiles and camels.

Sharjah is renowned among 4x4 enthusiasts as having some of the UAE’s most impressive dunes, including the famous Big Red. Adrenaline junkies can go desert driving, dune-bashing or quad biking from sunrise to sunset, while travellers of all ages can soak in spectacular sunsets over the dunes, or camp under the stars. Quad bikes, buggies and helmets can be hired from one of the many rental companies along the road. You can also strap on your sand board and zip down the seemingly endless sand slopes for an exhilarating experience.

Dotted with palm trees, swings and football goals, Khorfakkan is a 3 km long crescent beach set in a beautiful bay. Relax on the sand or swim in the clear, warm waters. Hire jet skis or small boats to take you to nearby Shark Island, a popular hotspot for snorkelling and scuba diving, where the ocean is teeming with colourful coral gardens and a huge variety of marine species, including turtles, rays, sharks and schools of neon-striped fish.

Among Kalba’s many charms are the restored hisn (fort), a historic former royal residence and a pleasant seaside promenade. On the southern outskirts of the town, the tidal Khor Kalba boasts of the oldest mangrove forest in Arabia, a beautiful estuary spanning an extensive 500 ha, and sandy beaches that are a birder’s paradise. This abundant nature reserve is best experienced by kayaks, where participants can spot endangered birds such as the Arabian-collared kingfisher while they unwind and get close to nature during their mesmerising excursion on the water.

Sharjah offers camping at many popular locations including the foothills of the Hajar Mountains. Air-conditioned cabin accommodation can be arranged for 20 to 120 people by outfits like the Kalba Adventure Camp. During your stay there, a range of activities like High Ropes Course, Cycling, Trekking, Kayaking and other water-sports can be arranged for an extra kick.

Al Khan Beach features a 600 m stretch of sand and a dedicated swimming area. You can rent sun loungers and umbrellas, or simply enjoy a picnic on the sand. The more adventurous can enjoy at the surf school that offers kayaking, kite surfing, parasailing, banana boat rides, fly boarding, beach volleyball and more. At Al Khan beach, you can also explore the beautiful underwater world, as various outfits facilitate scuba diving for novice enthusiasts as well. Flyboarding is another hot favourite, as one can whizz around almost 45 ft above the water, strapped to a jetpack.

Spread over 106 ha, the Al Mamzar Beach Park is divided into five beaches that are ideal for swimming, sunbathing and snorkelling. Swaying palm trees, three pools, multiple playgrounds and picnic areas with barbecues make this a popular venue for families at weekends. Jet skis are available on rent. There’s ample green space for skating, cycling and ball games too. There are numerous tour operators that offer exciting days out, such as guided tours by kayak or paddleboard and snorkelling trips.

Sharjah has two gulfs to choose from and a rich variety of marine species, which attracts deep-sea fishing enthusiasts from all around the world. Fishing is particularly good in Dibba Al-Hisn, and you can chase marlin and look to hook sailfish, dorado and yellowfin tuna. The fishing season in Sharjah starts in October and extends up to May.

There’s no shortage of amazing once-in-a-lifetime experiences to enjoy in and around the emirate of Sharjah; every day is an adventure here!

For more information, visit https://www.visitsharjah.com/en/

Disclaimer: This article has been produced on behalf of Sharjah Tourism by Times Internet.