When people think of winter in the UAE, Fujairah often stands apart. Nestled where the rugged Hajar Mountains meet the Indian Ocean, the emirate offers a landscape and rhythm unlike anywhere else in the country. For me, what makes it truly special is how nature, heritage, and community harmonise in the cooler months, transforming the emirate into one of the UAE’s most captivating escapes.
Winter here brings a refreshing clarity. The air turns crisp, and the coastline glows under gentler skies. It’s the ideal season to explore the emirate’s untouched landscapes; from diving into its rich marine world to hiking its hidden trails. Whether snorkeling alongside turtles near Snoopy Island or standing at a mountain summit at sunrise, the experiences are grounding and unforgettable. Beyond the beaches, winter in Fujairah opens up a wide range of adventures: kayaking on Al-Rafisah Dam, hiking in the Hajar Mountains, exploring Masafi’s bustling Friday Market, horse riding at the stables in Al Ahli, or trekking deep into Wadi Wurayah National Park, a UNESCO-protected site
Often seen by UAE residents as just a coastal staycation spot, Fujairah is far more. There’s an energy here you have to surrender to. Its magic lies in the simple joys: a sunrise hike as the first light spills over the ocean, or a fishing trip ending with freshly grilled catch at a chalet barbecue. Sandy Beach Resort, nestled by Snoopy Island, embodies that spirit. More than a resort, it has become part of the UAE’s cultural fabric - a place of memory and return for generations, and today, a true gateway into Fujairah’s rhythm, whether through kayaking, wellness retreats, or simply watching the sun rise behind the island.
Winter also marks Fujairah’s most vibrant social season. Families, friends, and travellers take to the outdoors, filling the mountains, beaches, and wadis with energy. Community gatherings, cultural festivals, and wellness retreats thrive in this season of cooler weather and shared experiences. Among the highlights is Snoopy Beats, a homegrown music festival that has introduced a new wave of visitors to Fujairah. By blending international and regional talent with immersive art and design, it has redefined how the emirate is seen, proving that Fujairah can be both serene and culturally dynamic for the modern traveller.
What I find unique about Fujairah is its balance. It doesn’t compete with Dubai’s scale or Ras Al Khaimah’s resorts; instead, it embraces its raw and grounded identity. Here, travellers can wake up to unspoiled ocean views, explore centuries of history at landmarks like Fujairah Fort, and return in the evening to the warmth of a boutique, family-owned property that reflects the hospitality of the community. Fujairah is a destination of contrasts - quiet yet alive, traditional yet evolving.
As someone who has spent years in hospitality, I see Fujairah as more than a retreat; it is a blueprint for what modern travellers are looking for. People are seeking authenticity, experiences that connect them to nature and culture, and moments that feel real rather than manufactured. In winter, when its landscapes and communities are at their most vibrant, Fujairah offers exactly that - an escape that is both restorative and inspiring, while playing an increasingly important role in the UAE’s tourism story.
Meet Fujairah Tourism & Antiquities Department Stand S10-400