Thousands flock to Sharjah's new Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre in first week

Open-air venue was inaugurated by the Ruler of Sharjah

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

Thousands of visitors flocked to Sharjah's new Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre during the first week of its opening.

The impressive open-air venue was officially launched 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 Roman-inspired tourist attraction, which can house up to 3,600 spectators.

The screening of the film Khorfakkan, documenting the town's invasion by the Portuguese in the 1600s, was the cornerstone of five days of festivities held to celebrate the grand opening of the culture spot.

The two-hour film, produced by Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, is based on a book written by the Ruler of Sharjah.

"The significant turnout of residents and visitors for the screening of Khorfakkan and the feedback we have received from the public attests to the fact that moments that shape history and connect the present with the legacy of the past leave a lasting impression on the current generation," said Mohamed Hassan Khalaf, director general of Sharjah Broadcasting Authority.

"The Portuguese invasion of 1507 is a little-known chapter of the UAE’s history, but the bravery and sacrifices of the city’s residents played a formative role in carving the foundations of our national identity."

A heritage village was set up at the site to showcase the rich variety of Emirati heritage, from its handicrafts to its colourful cuisine.

A spectacular firework display and a laser show wowed the crowds as the amphitheatre opened for business in style.

Covid-19 measures were strictly adhered to during the inaugural activities at the amphitheatre.

Popular Emirati singer Hussain Al Jassmi will headline the first concert at the amphitheatre on December 31.