Inside Sharjah's spectacular Khor Fakkan amphitheatre – in pictures

Thousands of people flock to the UAE's latest cultural attraction in its opening week

An eye-catching view of the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre. Pawan Singh / The National

The impressive open-air venue is already proving a popular tourist attraction. Pawan Singh / The National

Visitors gaze at the artificial waterfall near the site. Pawan Singh / The National

The steep design of the amphitheatre is reminiscent of the Roman Colosseum. Pawan Singh / The National

The striking amphitheatre features 234 arches and 295 columns. Pawan Singh / The National

A view of the restaurant on top of the artificial waterfall. Pawan Singh / The National

The waterfall and restaurant. Pawan Singh / The National

The amphitheatre by night. Pawan Singh / The National

The venue can accommodate more than 3,000 people. Pawan Singh / The National

The terrace of the amphitheatre restaurant is a prime spot to unwind. Pawan Singh / The National

The structure is inspired by Roman architecture. Pawan Singh / The National

Khor Fakkan's Arabian Sea coast can be seen here. Pawan Singh / The National

Visitors take in the vista and Roman-style columns. Pawan Singh / The National

An aerial view of the 17,650-square-metre, semi-circular Khorfakkan Amphitheatre. Wam

Visitors enjoy the venue by night. Pawan Singh / The National

The spectacular venue is captured by aerial drone

At the venue's opening festivities, thousands viewed the 'Khor Fakkan' film, depicting the emirate's struggle against a Portuguese invasion in the 1600s

The venue proved to be a major tourist attraction only days after its opening in December 2020

A dazzling new cultural landmark paying tribute to rich Roman history is poised to propel Sharjah to a brighter future.

The spectacular Khor Fakkan amphitheatre – inspired by the grand design of the Roman Colosseum – has already wowed thousands of visitors since its official opening a week ago.

The stunning 17,650-square-metre open-air venue will be at the heart of efforts to transform the east coast enclave into a tourism hot spot.

The striking semicircular structure, with an imposing stone facade that includes 234 arches and 295 columns, was formally inaugurated on Monday by Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah.

More than 18,000 residents and tourists have already soaked up the atmosphere of the amphitheatre, which can host up to 3,600 spectators.

The screening of the film Khorfakkan, documenting the town's invasion by the Portuguese in the 1600s, was the highlight of five days of festivities held to celebrate the grand opening of the UAE's latest attraction.

The Ruler of Sharjah has led efforts to unlock the potential of Khor Fakkan as a magnet for tourism in recent years.

Last month he inspected the development of a new heritage area encompassing a canal, hotel and traditional souq.

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

Popular Emirati singer Hussain Al Jassmi will headline the first concert at the amphitheatre on New Year's Eve.