Fujairah Tourist Attractions

Al Bidyah Mosque is the oldest in the United Arab Emirates dating back to 1446. The engineering features are a major accomplishment for the period of construction. The mosque was named for the historical town that embraced it for so many centuries. It is also known as the Ottoman Mosque, for the man who built it.Al Bidyah Mosque, north of Fujairah, consists of a prayer hall with a prayer niche or Mihrab, pulpit, arches and openings. A central pillar divides the internal space in to four squares of similar dimensions. The pillar supports all four domes that can bee seen from the exterior.The internal decoration of the mosque combines stone carvings, openings for ventilation and light with special shelves to house the Holy Quran.The town of Al Bidyah, has been excavated to reveal that it has been inhabited for 4,000 years. A large Islamic graveyard, north of the village of Al Bidyah, contains a massive tomb dating back to the Iron Age. The tomb contains bones, fragments of pottery, metal arrowheads and other artifacts dating back to at least 1000 BC. Evidence has shown that the Portuguese also once occupied the village.

The Fujairah Museum is located south of the Fort, opposite the Ruler's Palace. Displays at the Fujairah Museum include artifacts found in archeological digs at Qidfa and Bithnah. Local and foreign archeologists have uncovered items dating back to early Bronze Age, over 4,500 years ago.Exhibits at the Fujariah Museum include pieces made of bronze, steel, brass, silver and gold. Bronze and Iron Age weapons, painted pottery, carved soapstone vessels and pre-Islamic silver coins. The latest addition to the displays is Herbs and Folkloric Medicine.An exquisite discovery in Qadfaa during archeological excavations is an ostrich's egg dating back 2200 years. The egg was used by local ancestors as a bowl and is still in very good condition.

The Bithna Fort is near Fujairah on the main highway. The Bithna Fort once stood watch over the strategic route across the Hajar Mountains through Wadi Ham. Built in 1735, Bithna Fort was considered one of the most important fortresses in the eastern part of the United Arab Emirates.Small parts of the wall are still standing showing the intricate decorative designs of the majlis walls.Al Hayl Castle is one of the most famous castles in Fujairah. Used as the headquarters for the ruling family, this historic castle was built 250 years ago and has been used for patrolling, surveillance, and to defend the area.Fujairah is also known as one of the most important archeological areas in the Arabian Gulf. Excavations have uncovered proof that man's presence dates back to the Iron Age.

Bull Butting began in Portugal between the 16th and 17th C. The Portugese who colonized the area brought the sport to the United Arab Emirates.In Fujairah, bull butting is a family event. Every Friday, local families and tourists gather at an open field to watch the bulls' battle it out. The day begins with 20 bulls and winners move on the next round. The prize for the winner is to have his value increased.After many hundreds of years in an open area the bull butting contests will take place behind a fence. Even though the bulls are tied up and handled by attendants, they sometimes take to charging spectators - especially those in red.Bull butting has become a major attraction in Fujairah.

Fujairah Fort, built in 1670, was badly damaged by a British attack in the early 20th C. Considered the oldest fort in the UAE, it has served as a defensive building and a home for the ruling family.The Fujairah Fort is a mud brick structure with three major sections, several halls, one square tower and two round towers. The fort has been renovated and restored to its former glory. For many centuries it was the only stone building along the Fujairah coast.Located on a hill at the edge of date gardens, the Fujairah Fort is surrounded by the remains of some old town houses.

Ain Al Madhab Gardens are located in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, just outside the town of Fujairah. Fed by mineral springs, the warm sulfuric water is used in two swimming pools - one for women and the other for men.The Ain Al Madhab Gardens are not only a mineral spa but feature a park area, the ruins of Fujairah Fort and Heritage Village, real-life displays of traditional houses, fishing boats, costumes, pottery and cookware.An outdoor theatre is used for festivals including traditional singing and folklore dances during public holidays in Fujairah.