Canals and souqs: new heritage area opens on Sharjah's east coast

Khor Fakkan ups its tourist game with a string of new sites

The Ruler of Sharjah, Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, on Sunday opened a new heritage area in Khor Fakkan including a canal. All photos Wam

The area includes a restored souq.

And traditional shops.

Many tourist attractions are being built in the enclave, attracting visitors from across the UAE and world.

The renovated area will also include a hotel when complete.

Sheikh Dr Sultan touring the area.

A new heritage area in Khor Fakkan encompassing a canal, hotel and traditional souq is coming to life.

Old markets have been restored, shops rejuvenated and people will soon be able to stay in boutique heritage accommodation in the town.

It is the latest tourism project in the east coast enclave overseen by the Ruler of Sharjah Sheikh, Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, that champions tradition.

Sheikh Dr Sultan toured the area on Sunday, visiting many of the attractions including the Eastern Market -  a restored area redolent of the emirate's souqs of old.

He also toured the canal, which is 700 metres long and five metres wide, and connects to the sea at Khor Fakkan beach.

Authorities are also converting several old houses into a new hotel called Al Rayaheen. Sheikh Dr Sultan also visited a 1950s-era house named Bait Al Shabab.

Khor Fakkan is upping its tourist game in a major way. Shees Park, a 11,362-square metre facility with a 25-metre high artificial waterfall opened last week. A waterpark and branch of the Chedi are set to open in Khor Fakkan soon.