This entry is the result of different trips through this region of the United Arab Emirates. Although there is much more that can be done within this emirate, especially if you like museums or archaeological sites, I did not visit those, and before I left, it was getting too hot to be out in the sand!

One of the places that I visited was the ghost town of Al Madam. There are 2 rows of houses just south of the town of Al Madam, which were built most likely in the 1960s or 1970s by the government. From what I was able to learn, these houses (and mosque) were likely built when the government was trying to get the Bedouin tribes to settle in one location and change their nomadic ways. The houses, if inhabited at all, were not inhabited for long. Legend has it that the djinns (genies or spirits) disturbed the residents and they left due to the paranormal activity. Others believe that it was simply the sand that has been encroaching, and now covers some of the houses completely, that forced the move. Regardless of the reason, you can drive to this deserted area (with a 4×4), or park and walk the remainder (which is what I had to do, so as not to get stuck in the sand). Since it was already the end of June by the time that we could go,  we left early in the morning to beat the heat (which, by 9-10 am was becoming unbearable). If you want to go, follow the Google Maps link to the Old area of Madam, of the industrial road, and then drive as far as you like on the sand.

Once there, take your time looking through the houses, and then you can admire the mosque from the outside only. Don’t be fooled by the deserted appearance, there is someone nearby to make sure that the mosque is not entered, as it is still a sacred space. You will find that all the houses have a very similar layout. Some still have wallpaper and furniture, others have basically been engulfed by the sand. (As a caution, when climbing the dunes above the houses, be careful, as the structures underneath could give way).

Near to Al Madam, there is Fossil rock (which I have not visited), but it would be a good hike in the winter.

The next area is one that I have driven through many times on my way to Fujairah to go diving. Although I cannot speak to much within the town of Khor Fakkan, the corniche area is lovely, and much quieter than anywhere in Dubai (prettier too, in my opinion, even if the industrial port is now there too).

If you drive the Khor Fakkan highway in the direction of Sharjah/Dubai (built in the last few years through the Hajjar Mountains to cut the driving time down), you will drive past the Al Rafisah Dam, which is a really nice stop for lunch. I think there are hikes from here, although I didn’t try them. At the rest stop, you can learn about several endangered species, including the adorable Arabian Wildcat.

Next, if you head into the city of Sharjah, you can visit the rain room, which is a really cool exhibit underground where you can be surrounded by falling water without getting wet! The exhibit has water falling from the ceiling, but also has several sensors, and as you slowly (key word: slowly) move through the space, the sensors track your movement to pause the water from falling above you. It is very cool, and very relaxing!

For lunch, we stopped at the Arabian tea house (there are different locations throughout the UAE). This particular location is very quaint and the food (Emirati) was delicious. I would definitely recommend it for future visits. It is also near the Islamic Museum.

Lastly, we stopped by the Blue Souk/Central Souk. Normally (ie. not during covid times), this would be a bustling covered area, that really gives you the feel of an everyday souk. Items here are priced more realistically, as this is where people will actually come for their shopping, not just for tourists.

Like I said before, there are many other areas in Sharjah that you can visit, so explore!!