Fujairah is one of the seven emirates of the UAE. The climate here is very mild, which attracts tourists. This is the only emirate that is washed by the Indian Ocean.

Fujairah resort is the youngest, so it is suitable for those who want privacy and tranquility. The population is about 137 thousand people.

Nature is considered the most colorful. It is very clean here, since there are no manufacturing enterprises, and the residents are mainly engaged in agriculture.

According to some information from this mosque more than 500 years, but no one knows for sure. The history of its origin is also a mystery. We can say with confidence that at the moment this is a functioning mosque. It is small - 53 sq. m. During the service, it can accommodate 30 people. This mosque will be of interest even to travelers who are far from Islam.

The walls of Al-Bidiya are of particular interest; they are made as if from sand on the outside, and the elegant decoration on the inside is striking.

Al-Bidiya Mosque is located in the village of Al-Bidiya, 30 km north of Fujairah.

This fort was nicknamed " floating fortress", since it is located on a hill and cannot be seen touching the ground. Built by the Portuguese back in 1670, it has survived to this day in very good condition, despite the bombings and wars it has seen.

El-Heil is interesting because it was the residence of the emir. Tourists can explore the bedrooms, exquisite living rooms, huge storage rooms and even see the watchtower. And if you go out into the courtyard, you can admire the production of date molasses.

Al Khail Fort is located 8 km southwest of Fujairah.

Initially it was built as a defensive building. He defended the city from sea and land. Therefore, it consists of towers that are directed in different directions. Thus, the square tower of Mirab looks at the city, and the round towers look at the sea and mountains.

This fort is not a museum; entry is completely free. Its visit guarantees you a walk through the past, during the times of great battles, and will also introduce you to the life and customs of that time.

Fujairah Fort is located in the center of the old city 2 km from Fujairah .

This is a seaside city that is famous for its picturesque landscapes. Its location makes it unique. On one side are the Hajar Mountains, and on the other is the shore of the Gulf of Oman. It is beauty that attracts hundreds of tourists to this amazing city.

Dibba is also a historical center. During the excavations, it turned out that it was inhabited back in the Iron Age and was a major trading center. Traders from all over the Middle East, as well as China and India, came here.

Dibba is 52 km from Fujairah, which is 1 hour's drive.

Friday Market (Souk al-Jumaa)

Previously, I only worked on Friday, but now I work any day. This is a traditional oriental market where you can find everything your heart desires. They sell mainly goods of their own production (dishes, vessels, sweets, jewelry, carpets and much more). You won’t leave there without buying something, just don’t forget that Arabs love to bargain. In some cases, the price tag can be lowered to 50% of the originally stated amount.

The Friday market is located in Masafi, which is next to the highway on the border between Fujairah and Sharjah.

This is a reserve, on the territory of which there is a water valley that provides fresh water to the entire emirate. The park covers an area of 127 sq. m. More than one hundred species of fauna and more than three hundred species of flora live there. Arabian tigers (considered an endangered species), leopards and wild caracal cats roam freely here. There are also 29 historical heritage monuments on the territory of the reserve.

Wadi Wuraya National Park is located north of Fujairah in the center of the ring of the cities of Khorfakkan and Al-Bidiya.

Since the island looks like a shark's fin, it was nicknamed Shark. It attracts divers from all over the world. The water is clear, so the dives are very educational. You can see the coral reefs in fine detail. Swim with schools of small fish, see sea turtles and octopuses.

Shark Island is famous for its "Underwater Car Graveyard." This is an amazing sight, since the flooded cars are inhabited by marine inhabitants.

The diving depth is from 4 meters to 30 meters, so both beginners and experienced divers will feel comfortable.

Shark Island is located opposite Khor Fakkan, which is a 30-minute drive from Fujairah.

If you look at the island from a certain angle, you will notice its resemblance to the cartoon character from which it was named.

An ideal island for beginner divers. The diving depth is only 5 meters. But the underwater world amazes with its exotic beauty. You will see the largest number of sea turtles here. Snoopy Island is a 45-minute drive from Fujairah.

This peninsula had a bad reputation in the past, as it was believed that pirates lived in the Omuz Gulf, which is washed by Musandam. They robbed and destroyed ships. Today nothing reminds us of them. The peninsula is very beautiful, and for its steep cliffs it is called Arabian Norway. Here you can go fishing and dhow sailing. The dhow ride passes through the rocks and ends with an encounter with dolphins - a very impressive sight.

The journey to Musandam Peninsula takes almost 3 hours, and the distance from Fujairah is 189 km.

The hot spring appeared due to a volcanic eruption. It cures many diseases - rheumatism, various skin diseases and other ailments. This is possible thanks to sulfur mineral springs. The water temperature is very comfortable and is 55 degrees. Medical tourism has just begun to develop here, but has already gained sufficient popularity.

Ain Al Ghomour hot spring is located 20 km from Fujairah.

The sculpture consists of seven jugs, which symbolize the seven emirates of the UAE. The three largest jugs of the composition are oil-producing emirates (Dubai, Sharjah, Abu Dhabi). Fujairah is presented in the form of a small jug, but despite this, the standard of living in this emirate is quite high. "Jugs" is located near the airport.

The sculptural composition “Jugs” is located on the road from Fujairah to Dibba.

Spread at the foot of Mount Hajar. This place is considered the most picturesque corner of Fujairah. It became famous for its hot springs. On the territory there are two swimming pools with medicinal waters - for men and women.

But of greater interest among tourists are the gardens, where you can hide from the scorching daytime sun. The national park has many paths, so every corner of the park is accessible to pedestrians. On weekends, national groups perform here, so you can come and admire Arabic dances and listen to music.

Ain Al Madhab Gardens is located next to Fujairah Airport .

The club regularly holds windsurfing competitions, racing on yachts, scooters and boats. Obtaining membership in the club is very simple - you need to become a participant in one of the competitions. But mostly people come here for “exciting fishing” (whoever has the biggest catch wins). Here you can catch tuna, barracudas and other inhabitants of the water element. You can cook the fish you catch right in the open ocean on a boat; you have everything you need for this.

There is an excellent restaurant on site with live music. The International Nautical Club is located on the coast of Fujairah.

This is the most spectacular sport that attracts not only local residents, but also tourists. They are held every Friday from 16:00 to 19:00. There are no fights in the summer, as it is very hot.

The essence of the competition is to identify the most persistent bull, who in the end must fight with the winner of the previous week. There is no bloodshed like in Spanish bullfighting. The fight lasts on average eight minutes, and then the owners separate the bulls. The winner is determined by a judge. Before the fight, all bulls are on a strict diet of dates, milk and honey.

Bullfights are held in Fujairah between Ocean Road and Corniche Road.

The village is an open-air museum. It was opened to tourists in 1996. Once there, you will be able to get acquainted with the traditional life of the Arabs, their crafts, handicrafts, see houses and preserved mosques. The village is surrounded by a wall with watchtowers. This excursion will be very interesting for children.

Folk dances (al-ayala) are performed especially for tourists. Water there is extracted from a well and bulls help people with this. On the territory of the village there is a market for sweets and souvenirs. Anyone can choose a suitable memorable gift.

The traditional heritage village is located in the center of the old city, 2 km from Fujairah.

This is an indoor museum, opened to the public in 1991. It was during this period that archaeological excavations began in the city. The first exhibits were coins, jewelry, household items and tools.

Now the museum exhibition consists of several halls. Clothes, outfits and their changes over time are presented there. There is a hall of spices and herbs and even a medicine hall, where medicinal herbs that have been used for healing since ancient times are displayed. The most unusual exhibit is an ostrich egg, which was used as a bowl for food. Its age is more than 2 thousand years.

Fujairah National Museum is located in the center of Fujairah.

If you drive along the streets of the city, you can pay attention to interesting monuments, and they are dedicated not to people, but to animals and household items. One of these is the “Golden Falcon,” which is reminiscent of the traditional Arab pastime of falconry. “Sharks” and “Dolphins”, which do not allow tourists to forget about the inhabitants of the local waters. But the composition “Perfume” speaks of the Arabs’ ability to produce perfume oils. “The Kerosene Lamp” is reminiscent of times past.

In conclusion, I would like to say that Fujairah is an amazing city that will appeal not only to history buffs, but also to spectacle lovers.

Fujairah is one of the popular resorts in the UAE, an emirate with the capital of the same name, which is very different from other regions of the country. The only one of all, it is located on the shores of the Arabian Sea of ​​the Indian Ocean (unlike the other emirates, washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf) and boasts a relatively large amount of precipitation by local standards and a nature atypical for the UAE - green valleys, majestic mountains and wide beaches with golden sand.

About 140 thousand people live in Fujairah, there are no skyscrapers and the bustle of cities with a population of over a million, but agriculture is well developed here, interesting historical monuments have been preserved and all conditions have been created for a calm and secluded holiday. It is also the only emirate that does not produce hydrocarbons, which is good for tourists.

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How to get to Fujairah

Fujairah has its own airport, but it is used most often for cargo transport and private flights. Moreover, there are no direct flights from Russia; you can get there either with a connection somewhere in Europe (from 400 USD one way) or through Dubai. Prices on the page are as of September 2018.

Tourists usually fly to Dubai, since it is a little more than 100 km from Fujairah. In particular, you can fly directly from Moscow to Dubai on flights of Aeroflot, Emirates, Fly Dubai, and Ural Airlines. The one-way journey will take 5.5 hours and cost about 256 USD. You can also fly from the Russian capital in 5 hours and 340 USD on a direct Air Arabia plane to Sharjah, but getting from here is a little longer and more expensive.

From airport to city

Getting from Dubai Airport to Fujairah is easy. The most comfortable and fastest way to get there is by taxi; the cost is fixed for all services, as it is controlled by the state. Depending on the location of the hotel it will cost 348-440 AED and will take about 1.5 hours.

Also, buses run every half hour from all Dubai airport terminals from 5:00-6:00 until midnight. The fare is 22-41 AED, you can check the schedule and route number at the office. carrier's website (in English). There is also a route map and a smartphone application that will help you navigate the world of public transport in Dubai.

Search for flights to Dubai (the nearest airport to Fujairah)

Districts of Fujairah

The most popular areas among tourists, which is logical, are coastal. Among them are Fujairah, Dibba, Al Badiya, Kalba and Khor Fakkan. Here, on the first beach line, the best hotels are located. The capital of the emirate, hidden in a bay of the Gulf of Oman, is small (only 50 thousand inhabitants), modern and European in mood. On the wide, bright streets there are residential high-rises and business centers, on the picturesque coast there are hotels and beaches with all kinds of activities: from diving to snorkeling.

In the vicinity of Fujairah, an old Portuguese fort and a complex of architectural monuments from the 17th century are noteworthy.

Dibba is split into three parts, two of which belong to the UAE, and one to neighboring Oman. The city owes its name to the Portuguese fortress of Dibba Al-Hisn, which has survived to this day, and its tourist popularity to its peaceful atmosphere, fresh mountain air and stunning beaches.

The main attraction of the village of Al-Badiya, 30 km from Fujairah, is the mosque of the same name, one of the oldest in the emirates. Built in the 15th century, it seats no more than 30 people and is very different from the typical religious buildings of the region, more reminiscent of traditional Yemeni temples.

The town of Kalba is famous for mangrove forests with strange inhabitants, as well as ancient Portuguese architecture and - like all of Fujairah - excellent beaches. And Khor Fakkan - translated as “the bay of two jaws” - is a paradise for lovers of secluded relaxation and first-class diving: corals, fish, turtles, stingrays - all kinds of treasures are hidden under the local water surface.

There are no dangerous or dirty areas in Fujairah, but it is still recommended not to stay in the mountainous areas, as there is active quarrying there.

Transport

In Fujairah, urban transport is not developed. There are no metro or trams here, and if there is a bus on the road, most likely it belongs to a private company or carries students from one of the local schools to their homes. Officially, there are about 10 bus routes throughout the emirate, and even those are not routed to the most popular tourist spots. Intercity communication has so far been established only with Dubai. Water transport is used mainly for organizing cruises; renting a motorbike or bicycle is also not possible: due to the hot weather, they are not in demand. You can only move around the city by car or on foot.

In fact, the only public transport is a taxi, so there are no problems with cars here. In places with large concentrations of tourists, there are a lot of private owners who are always ready to take you in the right direction. To stop the car, just raise your hand along the road. However, private cab drivers do not always have taximeters, which means it is better to agree on the cost of the trip right away.

Another option is to use a municipal taxi, whose tariffs are fixed and regulated by law. In the daytime, 1 km costs 1.50 AED, at night - 2.50 AED. Drivers speak English more or less clearly and use a meter.

Maps of Fujairah

Rent a Car

Renting a car is an excellent alternative to walking and constantly searching for a taxi on the streets of Fujairah. The roads here are of high quality, the drivers are polite, the urban layout is simple, and gasoline is inexpensive. There are local and international rental offices at the airport and many hotels. To rent, you will need a driver's license (at least 1 year of driving experience); most often you do not need to leave a deposit. You can rent a small car for 120 AED, an economy class car for 130 AED, a standard model for 180 AED, an SUV for 213 AED per day. Gasoline will cost 3.80 AED per 1 liter.

Traffic in Fujairah is on the right, road signs are clear, all signs are in English. The sanctions for violating traffic rules here are severe: while speeding (the limit in cities is 60 km/h) only results in a serious fine, driving while intoxicated means imprisonment. Traffic jams are rare in the emirate; there is a lot of parking, most of which are free.

Communications and Wi-Fi

In Fujairah, as in all of the UAE, there are only two mobile operators - Etisalat and Du. Their tariffs and rules for using services are approximately the same. The cost of a local SIM card is approximately 75 AED, this amount already includes an Internet traffic package, SMS and calls. You can also choose a tariff only with a mobile Internet package.

Internet coverage here is very good, with connections available almost everywhere except in remote deserts and the open sea. Public institutions - airports, restaurants, hotels, shopping centers - provide free Wi-Fi. And experienced tourists advise using it to the maximum, since mobile Internet here is quite expensive.

Fujairah beaches

The emirate of Fujairah has the longest coastline - about 90 km. All beaches belong to hotels, entry to which is free for guests. Guests from other hotels can get to the “foreign” beach for a small fee - 20-35 AED. This amount includes the use of sun loungers, umbrellas, toilets and other beach infrastructure.

Regardless of the star rating of the hotel, all the beaches are very clean, boasting clear water and white sand without any garbage. Some beaches have open-air freshwater pools where children can safely swim. The Gulf of Oman itself is distinguished by picturesque corals and rich marine life; inquisitive dolphins, huge turtles and even sharks that are safe for humans often swim to the shores.

The beaches of Fujairah are ideal for diving and for a calm, measured family holiday.

Treatment

Diving in Fujairah

Most of Fujairah's worthwhile dive sites are located near the Oceanic Hotel, a 15-20 minute boat ride away. For example, it is worth diving at Martini Rock, covered with colorful soft corals (depth from 3 to 19 m). Here you can find lion fish, beautiful cuttlefish, scorpion fish and others. In Khor Fakkan, surrounded by mountains, you can relax on beautiful beaches and go on a trip to coral reefs and sunken ships, and in the surrounding waters of Dibba you can see clusters of hard corals, many turtles and even sharks.

Other popular dive sites include Shark Island, Graveyard Artificial Reef, Three Rocks, Spuppy Island with shallow depths of 3 to 7m, Dibba Island and Chasm of the World underwater cave.

Diving off the coast of Fujairah

Fujairah Hotels

The choice of hotels in the emirate of Fujairah is not as wide as in Dubai or Sharjah, but nevertheless there is still a room for every budget. Some of the most prestigious hotels are the five-star Hilton Fujairah Resort, Le Meridien Al Aqah Beach Resort, and Radisson Blu Resort. A day in a double room here will cost 450-1100 AED.

Prices in good “three rubles” start from 200 AED per night. The Sandy Beach Hotel (from 400 AED) is popular due to its excellent diving conditions: the hotel has a diving center, and not far from the shore there is Snoopy Island, where it is convenient and interesting to dive underwater.

Shopping

Fujairah is far from the main emirate of shopaholics, but famous silk carpets, perfumes based on plant extracts, cashmere clothes, fur coats, pearls, gold, hookahs and Turks are also sold here.

Authentic items and handicrafts are best purchased at the Friday Market, which is actually open every day of the week. The selection of goods here is really huge, you can and should bargain for every item: in a gambling transaction that is pleasant for both parties, you can save up to 50% of the original cost.

Popular malls with many chain and local stores, cinemas, coffee shops, food courts and children's playgrounds are Fujairah City Center, Century Mall, Dana Plaza, Fujairah Tower Mall. Clothes, shoes, jewelry, gadgets, and perfumes are sold here. And yes, bargaining is appropriate even in stores.

Cuisine and restaurants of Fujairah

Arabic cuisine is based on meat dishes, the freshest vegetables, seafood, fruits and delicious desserts. And almost all of them do not have significant differences in different cities and emirates. However, there are some things you can only try in Fujairah. These are “al madruba” - salted fish, which is boiled with spices and served with flour, “guzi” - lamb with nuts and rice, “hummus” - chickpea paste, “kebbe” - meat balls and other types of roast meat and vegetables. . We recommend finishing your lunch with the esh-asaya curd dessert with a cup of aromatic coffee, which is prepared here exclusively in Turks, and not in coffee machines.

Be sure to try street shawarma made from fresh meat; it bears little resemblance to its Russian “brother.”

There are over 200 restaurants in Fujairah, but not every hotel is within walking distance. Beach restaurants are perfect for daytime snacks and full meals: seafood or grilled fish right on the ocean will be even tastier than usual. The cost of a main course is 60-100 AED, a glass of beer or a shot is 35 AED.

There are quite a few bars and nightclubs in Fujairah, but hotels have discos with dancing and pubs where you can drink beer for the same 404-50 AED and watch a broadcast of a football match.

Entertainment and attractions

Fujairah will appeal to lovers of history and ancient cultural monuments. The visiting card of the city is the fort in the Old Town, which was built back in 1670 and then destroyed several times during English bombing. Now it is a huge restored castle with towers and loopholes. Not far from it is the Archaeological Museum with exhibitions showing the history of the emirate from ancient times - coins, utensils, and examples of residential buildings are presented here.

Another fort - Al-Kheil - is known for the fact that for a long time it was the residence of the ruler of the Arab Emirates (the grandfather of the current emir). Tourists can go inside and explore the living rooms, bedrooms, corridors, storage rooms, and then go out into the courtyard and see the production of date molasses.

Even tourists far from Islam should look at the Al-Badiya Mosque, which is more than 500 years old. It is made in the architectural style of the Ottoman Empire and looks as if it was sculpted from sand, but behind the external roughness there is a very elegant interior decoration.

Wadi Wurayya National Park is an open-air nature reserve. The river that flows here is one of the few sources of fresh water in the country. The river valley is surrounded by rocky mountains, there is a lot of greenery and a variety of animals - including Arabian leopards and caracals. Archaeological excavations are underway in the park, during which ancient Islamic cemeteries, petroglyphs, and the remains of ancient human settlements have already been discovered.

Fujairah is also famous for its bullfights, which take place every Friday from 16:00 to 19:00 along the road leading towards Kalba. These fights are not bloody, but rather spectacular, so you shouldn’t be afraid of scary scenes. If you wish, you can also visit camel racing, and at the same time ride a double hump. In addition, the emirate has a lot to offer active tourists: many water sports, mountain climbing, exotic trips along dry river beds.

6 things to do in Fujairah

  1. Swim to Snoopy Island and see all the marine life.
  2. Try real Arabic Turkish coffee and unusual pudding-based desserts.
  3. Attend bullfights that always end without bloodshed.
  4. Go on a jeep safari through the desert.
  5. Buy a handmade silk carpet at the Friday market.
  6. Visit the Al-Badiya Mosque, which is more than 500 years old, and make sure that its safety and beauty are not in danger.

Fujairah for children

Quiet, cozy Fujairah cannot yet boast of an abundance of entertainment for the whole family. Playgrounds and standard amusement complexes are found only in some hotels and shopping centers. However, young tourists will certainly enjoy many “adult” attractions. Among them is the Heritage Village in Fujairah, where traditional Arab dwellings with all household elements, from dishes to mats, are accurately reproduced. The entertainment program includes Ayala folk dances and extraction of well water using ancient technology.

At the mini-market in Heritage Village, kids can enjoy fresh fruit, and their parents can enjoy strong aromatic coffee brewed according to an ancient recipe.

In the United Arab Emirates, this island is very popular among divers. The water here is very clean and therefore transparent, which allows you to see the underwater world in all its glory when scuba diving: here you will find motley schools of small fish swimming among the corals, lobsters, and electric stingrays. You can also see octopuses and sea turtles here.

Those who do not yet know how to scuba dive should not be upset either, since experienced diving instructors teach beginners for a reasonable fee.

The depth off the coast ranges from five to thirty meters. The water temperature is more than comfortable - on average it is 25 degrees. The sandy beaches of Shark Island combined with the rocky shores look simply magnificent.

Musandam Peninsula

On one side, this peninsula is surrounded by the lands of the United Arab Emirates, and on the other, by the legendary Strait of Omuz, once famous for its large concentration of pirates. Nowadays, the Musandam Peninsula is called Arabian Norway due to the impressive size of the coastal cliffs, which are arranged in the form of an ornate labyrinth, which gives a certain resemblance to the Scandinavian fjords. It is difficult to list all the beauties and attractions here: secluded bays with clear turquoise water, grottoes in the rocks, mountain ranges whose peaks are hidden high in the clouds, and many ancient architectural structures such as mosques or ancient citadels. These places are also very popular with divers and fishing enthusiasts - many different types of fish live in the local waters. Souvenir lovers are offered a wide selection of works by local craftsmen: from hand embroidery to beautiful forged iron products. The most favorable time in terms of weather is the autumn-winter period.

What sights of Fujairah did you like? Next to the photo there are icons, by clicking on which you can rate a particular place.

Fujairah Fort

Fujairah Fort is located in the hills, just steps from Castle Road, which runs along the northern side of the emirate. The attraction is a huge ancient fortress. It appeared in the middle of the 16th century. The fort looks like three two-story buildings, which are connected by a wall. They have a conical shape, the top of which is decorated with pyramid-shaped turrets, which were previously used as guard posts, as well as shelters during shelling. One of these buildings stands out noticeably with its cubic walls dotted with small viewing windows. Despite their tiny size, these openings served as both ventilation and lighting.

Fujairah Fort is a unique historical site in the city. Tourists are brought here every time. The fort is carefully monitored. More recently, the fortress was restored.

Friday Market is located in the UAE along the road in the mountains between Sharjah and Fujairah. It is called the Souq Al-Jumaa market, or Friday market.

To get to the market you will have to call a taxi, because there is no public transport in Sharjah at all, the cost will be 5.5-15 $, the time of day will play a big role on the price.

At the market you will find products, exotic sweets, and you can also buy souvenirs. Many travelers come for Iranian, Arab, Afghan and Indian carpets made with their own hands with traditionally beautiful patterns; you can also buy silk carpets, various ceramics, daggers, and jewelry.

From 11:30 to 13:00 there are prayers, and therefore some shops may be closed, despite the fact that the market is called the Friday market; it receives people from 8 am to 10 pm, seven days a week.

Snoopy Island

The area here is exotically beautiful - vast sandy shores and impressively sized cliffs wash the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Thanks to the purity of the local waters and optimal temperature, Snoopy Island attracts a large number of diving enthusiasts. Those who love to admire the underwater beauty - coral reefs, sea turtles and countless unusual fish - are provided with all the conditions for a bright, memorable holiday. There are hotels, cafes, and, of course, a diving school. Even a novice diver will be able to learn the most necessary skills in a short time, which will give him the opportunity to experience the simply unique sensations of diving near Snoopy Island.

Ain Al Madhab Gardens

Ain Al Madhab Gardens is a national park with mineral springs, located in the Al Ain Valley at the foot of the mountains.

Two swimming pools (for men and women) are filled with warm mineral water from the springs. It is believed that by plunging into the local water you can be cured of many diseases.

On holidays, going to the green theater for a show with traditional Arabic songs and dances, you can feel the spirit of the Arab East.

There are good hotels in the park for those who want to undergo treatment in the springs.

In the vicinity of Fujairah, the Al-Bitiya Mosque, the former palace of the Emir of Fujairah, the Al-Kheil fortress, ancient Dibba, and the famous Souq al-Jumaa (“Friday Market”) on the border of Sharjah and Fujairah attract attention.

Divers Down Diving Center

The real professionals and masters of their craft work here, capable of very carefully and clearly explaining the necessary details to a diver of any level, including beginners. Dives take place at different times of the day - both at coastal cliffs and at sunken ships (the latter is of the greatest interest). They will also teach underwater video shooting here. Even children are accepted to study here - if only there was money to pay for the services. The basic course costs $400, then the price varies depending on your appetite for learning new tricks and nuances of diving. The first few dives are spent in the Oceanic Hotel pool, and only then the instructors will entrust you with forays into the ocean depths. Diving in Fujairah in the United Arab Emirates guarantees a lot of unique impressions: here you will find coral reefs, a wide variety of sea creatures, and sunken ships. That is why the Divers Down Diving Center is very popular among tourists.

Ain Al Ghamour Hot Springs

The springs flow throughout the year, but it is better to come here in October-May, when the heat is not so oppressive. When approaching hot springs, there is a strong smell of sulfur, so it is not recommended to spend long periods of time taking baths. Fortunately, the springs are located in the middle of a picturesque park with impressive scenery.

The most popular attractions in Fujairah with descriptions and photographs for every taste. Choose the best places to visit famous places in Fujairah on our website.

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We'll tell you how to relax and what to see in Fujairah, an Arab emirate on the shores of the Ottoman Gulf. Read about the resort's weather, location and activities.

Fujairah, population 140,000, is a famous Arab resort located in the Emirates on the coast of the Gulf of Oman. Its peculiarity is that it boasts a moderate amount of rain for the Arabian Peninsula and a unique environment: an abundance of greenery, mountain ranges and pristine beaches.

Where is it located on the map of the UAE

There are no megacities with modern high-rise architecture here; instead, there is a powerful agro-industrial complex, the presence of monuments of ancient Eastern culture and recreational facilities. Moreover, oil is not produced here.

To be extremely correct, this emirate and the locality of the same name are officially called Fujairah. However, rarely does anyone call them that (certainly our compatriots).


Climate

Since this emirate is predominantly mountainous, the coast of the Arabian Sea is protected from the dry winds of the Rub al-Khali desert. Therefore, Fujairah is somewhat wetter, although there is no rainy season in the usual sense.

  • Guidebooks recommend visiting the resort in September-November and March-April.
  • In winter, the temperature drops to +15° C.
  • In summer, the thermometer sometimes reaches +50° C. The water is +18° C and +26° C, respectively.


How to get there from Moscow or Dubai

Russian travelers in most cases fly to Dubai on Aeroflot, Emirates, Fly Dubai, Ural Airlines (flight duration 5.5 hours). It’s just a stone’s throw from Dubai airport – about a hundred kilometers along the isthmus. The easiest way to overcome it is by taxi in an hour and a half. The price of the service is acceptable and constant, because gasoline in this Muslim state is relatively inexpensive, and the entire transportation market is under government control.

Planning a trip? That way!

We have prepared some useful gifts for you. They will help you save money while preparing for your trip.

In addition, comfortable buses run from the largest airport of the Emirates every half hour from early morning until midnight.

By the way, the UAE is a miniature country by our standards, where everything is nearby, and almost 2/3 of its territory is occupied by a deserted desert. The Tver region is even bigger.

What is the distance and how long does it take to travel from Fujairah to Dubai?

The length of the route is 120 kilometers. The journey takes one and a half hours.

Description of the emirate

The urban area with a population of 50 thousand is divided into parts - Al-Badiya, Dibba, Kalba, Khor Fakkan. There are no crime-prone or environmentally unfavorable areas in Fujairah, with the exception of the mountains where there are active quarries. Closer to the sea there are prestigious hotels. And while petroleum products are really cheap in the Middle East, the same cannot be said about hotels.

The ensemble of architectural monuments of the 17th century deserves attention. Notable among them is the medieval Portuguese fort of Dibba Al-Hisn in the Old City, which was destroyed and rebuilt several times during its existence. Today it is an imposing castle with massive towers. The village of Dibba owes its name to him. A unique microclimate reigns here, attracting onlookers from all over the world like a magnet.

Al-Badiya is famous for one of the oldest mosques in the area, dating back to the 15th century and housing 30 worshipers, which is made in the Yemeni style.

Kalba is home to unique mangrove forests with bizarre fauna. And here, perhaps, are the best beaches in the area.

Khor Fakkan is a godsend for lovers of a spartan holiday with exquisite diving.

Transport connection

There is no municipal electric transport; buses are mainly chartered and school buses. It can be stated that road transport here is poorly developed: there are no more than 10 routes for the entire emirate, and they were laid without taking into account the direction of the main passenger flows. You will have to travel on foot or by car, of which there are plenty here. It is unlikely that you will be able to rent a scooter or bicycle: due to the heat, they are mostly idle, and this type of service brings nothing but losses to unlucky entrepreneurs.

So it turns out that for visitors the only means of transportation is state taxis and motorists. Private owners do not always have a meter, so it is better to agree on the price at the beginning of the trip.

Sea transport is adapted for cruises.

Communication and Internet

There are 2 mobile operators in the UAE - Du and Etisalat. Purchasing a SIM card will cost 75 local dirhams (this also includes a package of web services). The coverage area is small, there are enough towers, so the connection is stable. If necessary, sales consultants will select a package exclusively with mobile Internet. It's convenient, although not cheap. Reliable free Wi-Fi is supported everywhere - in airports, hotels, cafes, and commercial centers.


Sea and beaches

By local standards, Fujairah is considered a relatively remote periphery with the longest coastline in the Emirates (90 km). As elsewhere in the Arab world, the beaches are distributed to nearby hotels, and entry is free for tourists staying there. For “outsiders”, entry is provided at an acceptable rate - 20-35 dirhams.

The beaches are distinguished by almost sterile cleanliness, and this applies not only to the sand (there are almost no pebble beaches in the UAE), but also to the water. In addition, some beach facilities have fresh water swimming pools, where you can spend carefree time with your children. The entrance to the Strait of Hormuz from the Indian Ocean is replete with corals; curious cetaceans, turtles and even rare, peace-loving species of sharks often swim here.

There are ideal conditions for scuba diving, relaxation with the whole family, and passive leisure time alone.

What kind of sea or ocean is there in Fujairah?

The emirate is washed by the Gulf of Oman, which belongs to the Arabian Sea. And this sea is part of the Indian Ocean.

Diving

In Fujairah there is the Oceanic Hotel, known to any local, where a powerful diving club is based. His instructors recommend diving at the Martini cliff, which is picturesquely covered with corals. At its foot there are cuttlefish, stingrays, scorpion fish, and lion fish. Surrounded by the hills of Khor Fakkan, the local beaches resemble a secluded paradise, from where it makes sense to start a voyage to sunken ships and reefs, and in the coastal waters of Dibba a fantastic picture of coral piles and the turtle kingdom opens up.

Fujairah's popular dive sites don't stop there. The islands of Shark, Dibba, Spuppy, the Chasm of the World Cave, the so-called Three Rocks and the Car Cemetery are at the service of foreign tourists.

Health improvement

There is an opportunity to receive treatment at the sulfur-rich thermal springs of Al Ain Gomur in a picturesque rocky valley (20 km from the administrative center of the emirate). The healing underground liquid has antiseptic properties and cures rheumatism and dermatitis.

The mentioned springs appeared as a result of a volcanic eruption many years ago. Swimming in them is often combined with a thematic excursion: a hike to one of the low peaks of the Khajar Mountains and a visit to the nearest exotic camel market, where, in addition to desert ships, they also offer donkeys and horses.


Purchases

Frankly speaking, Fujairah is not for shopaholics. However, in this part of the UAE you can also buy silk carpets, perfumes made from natural raw materials, cashmere outfits, sheepskin coats, jewelry and Turks with trays and hookahs.

For exclusives and antiques, it is better to go to the Friday market. True, its name does not correspond to the truth: the marketplace is open all week, and on Fridays it was open in the last millennium. There is plenty of choice here; with a successful transaction, beneficial for both the seller and the buyer, you can save half the amount.

Malls of various brands with boutiques, cinema halls, cafeterias and children's playgrounds are in high demand among visitors. The malls sell textiles, shoes, products made of precious metals, electronic equipment, and cosmetic products. By the way, bargaining is also appropriate in such stores.

  • Travelata, Level.Travel, OnlineTours - look for the hottest tours here.
  • Aviasales - save up to 30% on purchasing air tickets.
  • Hotellook - book hotels with discounts up to 60%.
  • Numbeo - look at the price order in the host country.
  • Cherehapa - take reliable insurance so as not to worry on the road.
  • AirBnb - rent an apartment from locals.

Kitchen

Eastern Arab cuisine is characterized by a predominance of lamb and beef meat, southern vegetables, fruits, fish and sweets. Moreover, in Fujairah you can find dishes that are not found anywhere else on the Arabian Peninsula. This, for example, applies to “al madruba” - marinated seafood, cooked with a lot of spices and seasoned with flour, “guzi” - lamb in nuts and with rice as a side dish, “hummus” - chickpea paste, “kebbe” - balls of roast meat with vegetables. And for dessert they serve a curd dish called “ash-asay” with Turkish coffee.

Shawarma is sold in the same way as in the Caucasus - right on the street, but it is called “shuarma” and the taste is noticeably different from the Russian version, because it is prepared according to a different recipe.

There are a couple of hundred restaurants throughout the emirate. Beach establishments are well suited for daytime meals. Eating directly on the shore creates an additional appetite and promotes healthy digestion. Let us remember that Arabs adhere to an extremely balanced diet.

There are few nightclubs, dance floors and pubs in these parts; they are mainly concentrated in hotels where tourists from foreign countries stay. There, in the heat, you can drink a glass or two of beer while watching a football match broadcast on TV.

Sights to see

There is a false stereotype that there is no civilization in the UAE, except perhaps for the capital Abu Dhabi and Dubai. In fact, modern business life is in full swing everywhere in this country. The only exception is the Bedouin villages in the desert, although elements of progress have already arrived there.

This country has great respect for its own history and jealously preserves cultural monuments. It is not for nothing that the archaeological museum is considered the pride of local residents, the exhibits of which (coins, utensils, models of dwellings) tell about the development of the emirate.

Fort El-Kheil was once the residence of the ancestor of the current emirs. Visitors have access inside to inspect the premises. In the courtyard, the owners offer to watch the labor-intensive process of preparing and cleaning date molasses.

The national treasure of this state is the Wadi Wurayya Nature Reserve. It is impossible not to visit it, if only because the river flowing through it has been turned into the main object of local water supply. Its valley is located in the middle of the mountains (the highest point of Jabal Ibir is 1527 m). There are many unafraid wild animals hiding in the green zone, so you shouldn’t let your guard down. Arab scientists are engaged in excavations in the reserve. They have already discovered ritual burials and ruins of settlements founded in the early Middle Ages.

Every Friday evening in Fujairah, bull fights are organized along the road that leads to neighboring Kalba. However, they are not like Spanish bullfights, but resemble shows of skillful circus tricks. Camel racing is especially popular. If you wish, you can take part in them yourself as a rider. So those who are supporters of a healthy lifestyle will not be bored: in addition, they offer participation in competitions in a number of water sports, mountain tourism and educational hikes along “wadis” - the beds of dried up rivers.

Excursions

Here are the most popular excursions from Fujairah and their approximate cost:

  • To Dubai – $100;
  • To Dubai with a visit to the tallest building in the world – $160;
  • Jeep safari – $80;
  • To Sharjah – $65;
  • To Oman – $130;
  • In Abu Dhabi – $100;
  • Fishing or crab hunting – from $140;
  • Water parks – from $90.

Vacation with children

Yes, it is worth admitting: there is not yet enough entertainment for the whole family here, but the authorities are trying to fill this gap. Attraction complexes are available only at certain luxury hotels, as well as shopping centers. Therefore, the little ones, not without pleasure, stare along with the elders, for example, at the Heritage Village, where replicas of desert dwellings with all the everyday little things are recreated. But that is not all! Tourists are taught Ayala folk dances and demonstrated the ancient technology of water extraction. At the village market, children gorge themselves on fresh fruit, and their parents devour aromatic Arabica beans prepared according to a special recipe.

And for some reason, children adore the gardens of Ain Al Madhab. Apparently, this corner of nature brings a certain order and meaning into our consciousness. A park with well-groomed lawns and flower beds, luxurious alleys and fountains leaves no one indifferent!

Things to do

  1. Enjoy the uniqueness of the local coffee and dessert.
  2. Buy a traditional handmade silk product.
  3. Feel yourself in the role of a camel driver and rider.
  4. Take a photo in front of the unique Al-Badiya mini-mosque.
  5. Go with a local guide to the spurs of the Hajar Mountains or at least to the foothills.
  6. Attend a folklore and ethnographic concert with classical Arabic music and choreography.

The Emirate of Fujairah is an excellent choice for those who are accustomed to a traditional hotel holiday (a la Turkey and Egypt), but want to get acquainted with a new country on their tourist list - the United Arab Emirates, which is called luxurious, fabulous, and fantastic emirates.

Fujairah will be appreciated by lovers of natural beauty. The emirate is located on the coast of the Indian Ocean, the traditional landscapes of Fujairah are low mountains of reddish-yellow color, desert, ocean and luxurious five-star hotels - oases in the desert. The climate at this resort is dry and hot, but the increased comfort of hotels, where everything and everyone is air-conditioned, helps you comfortably endure the heat. In this place on the planet, the waves of the Indian Ocean are not as strong as, for example. on the islands of Sri Lanka or Bali, therefore it allows both adults and children to swim comfortably.

Many hotels in Fujairah operate on an all-inclusive basis, which has its own characteristics. In Fujairah hotels there will be no active entertainment programs, vulgar animators, competitions like “Hotel Mis,” karaoke and disco until the morning and other inventions of the Turkish hotel business. You need to set yourself up for a quiet, relaxing holiday, live music (if provided for by the hotel concept) in the evenings, and high-level service. Although the "inclusive" system does include alcoholic drinks included in the travel package, this will be a couple of glasses of wine at lunch and dinner, no pool or beach bars and no alcohol... read more

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Weather in Fujairah by months:

Month Temperature Cloudiness Rainy days /
Precipitation		 Water temperature
in the sea		 Number of solar
hours per day
During the day At night
January 22.4°C 18.2°C 7.1% 1 day (9.7 mm.) 23.6°C 10 o'clock 46m.
February 23.1°C 18.9°C 12.8% 1 day (23.0 mm.) 23.0°C 11 o'clock 19m.
March 26.2°C 21.3°C 11.7% 3 days (33.8 mm.) 23.8°C 12h. 1m.
April 31.7°C 26.0°C 9.3% 1 day (11.1 mm.) 26.6°C 12h. 45m.
May 36.0°C 30.1°C 3.9% - 29.8°C 13:00 22m.
June 37.5°C 31.7°C 1.9% - 32.3°C 13:00 41m.
July 37.0°C 32.0°C 5.1% - 32.6°C 13:00 32m.
August 36.3°C 30.9°C 4.2% - 32.0°C 13:00 0m.
September 35.3°C 30.1°C 1.4% - 31.5°C 12h. 17m.
October 32.9°C 28.0°C 3.6% 2 days (42.6 mm.) 30.5°C 11 o'clock 34m.
November 27.6°C 23.6°C 7.1% 1 day (14.2 mm.) 27.7°C 10 o'clock 56m.
December 24.2°C 20.0°C 6.1% 1 day (14.8 mm.) 25.1°C 10 o'clock 36m.

*This table displays weather averages collected over more than three years

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TOURIST REVIEWS:

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Fujairah for those who are in the Emirates for the first time

When going to the Emirates for the first time, namely Fujairah, you should understand what to expect from a holiday at this resort. Fujairah won't offer the crazy, hectic life of Dubai, with its constant traffic, bustle, entertainment and shopping. Fujairah is the youngest emirate, which has its own characteristics.

Diving enthusiasts will be tempted by the resort with the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the underwater world of the Indian Ocean. Coral reefs and marine life force divers from all over the world to come here to see this marine fairy tale.

Fujairah is also famous for its historical sights that everyone needs to see. Old fortresses, a half-destroyed fort, the oldest mosque in the emirates, Al-Bidiya - these are all the local attractions of Fujairah.

Here you can also enjoy the untouched beauty of the mountains and valleys, as well as improve your well-being with the help of hot springs, which relieve skin diseases and back problems.

Fujairah is an interesting young Emirate where you will forget about the hustle and bustle of your days and connect with nature.

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Fujairah. Oases in the desert

Holidays in the UAE have long attracted me, but the format of a city holiday, which, in essence, is a holiday in Dubai, did not quite suit me. I chose Fujairah for myself, as this is a great opportunity to see the sights of the United Arab Emirates and, at the same time, relax in a hotel on the Indian Ocean coast.

Fujairah has many wonderful, comfortable five-star hotels, many of which operate on the all-inclusive system that many of us love. The all-inclusive system in the Emirates is distinguished by exquisite cuisine, but you should not count on the variety and quantity of alcoholic drinks similar to the Turkish or Egyptian systems.

Most hotels in Fujairah offer services such as free transfer to Dubai shopping centers. This is a great opportunity to see the sights of Dubai.

A holiday in Fujairah is a great opportunity to relax on the magnificent beaches of the Indian Ocean (after all, Dubai is not the best choice for a beach holiday) and, at the same time, plunge into the exciting world of shopping and amazing sights - what the UAE is famous for.

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HOLIDAY PRICES:

How much does a holiday in Fujairah cost? May 2014.

tour cost

I live in Novosibirsk, where regular air tickets are usually sold at exorbitant prices (apparently, flights are also operated by spaceships). That’s why I’ve been buying last-minute travel packages for more than 10 years. I monitor prices myself, I also book myself, and I only arrange visa tours with agencies.

In May 2014, flights from Biblioglobus to the Emirates began to burn out, which was not a sin to take advantage of. I chose a week’s tour to the 5* Al Diar Siji Hotel (http://www.aldiarhotels.com/aldiarsijihotel/) and a business class flight for 26 thousand rubles including a visa. Business class TO was on sale with a surcharge of $49 one way per person, which we took advantage of.

We arrived at Dubai airport, where we were met by a driver in a Lexus RX-350 and taken to the hotel. Individual transport was provided by the hotel, which was a pleasant bonus, since going around all the hotels by bus would take a long time.

Al Diar Siji is a good five with good service. Located in the center of Fujairah, which we really liked. In addition to toiletries and creams, the room had tea/coffee and a minibar.

The price for the room included the services of the SPA center (except for procedures performed by specialists), a visit to the fitness club, as well as the opportunity to go for free to the best nightclub in the city, which was right in our hotel.

The hotel also provided us with a car with a driver to go to the beach every day.

Food and products

Our hotel offered an excellent dinner buffet for $40. But we only ate there once, and mostly had lunch or dinner in restaurants in the city.

Near the hotel there were many restaurants and a couple of fast foods - KFC and Pizza Hut. At KFC I took Arabic rice for 2 dollars and for the same price fresh orange juice 0.25 liters. At the pizzeria you could have a snack for 8-10 dollars - pizza and cola. Freshly squeezed juices starting at $1.50 per 0.25 liter were much tastier in the Lu-Lu hypermarket, which is next to the hotel. Lu-Lu had a large selection of fruits from all over the world, Indian and Arabic sweets at different prices. We also bought dates for home there - from 2 dollars per package.

Food in Fujairah is inexpensive, fresh, tasty and healthy.

We ate at different establishments, but most of all we liked the most famous restaurant, Al Meshwar, built in the shape of the ruins of an Arab palace.

We often ordered Arabic meat meze - grilled meats of various types, cold appetizers, grated nut spreads - mutable and hummus. For drinks we ordered freshly squeezed juices 0.5 l. I especially liked the lemon drink. In hot countries they know how to make it delicious by adding a little sugar and mint.

This portion and drink cost about 20-25 dollars per person.

Sometimes we ordered fresh, delicious grilled fish - $30, also with a drink. For lunch you could order a light European cream of mushroom soup - 5-6 dollars.

Alcohol was served only in hotel restaurants/bars, as well as in nightclubs. 0.33 of the cheapest bottled beer cost about $8.

Souvenirs and other goods

Unlike shopping centers in Dubai, there is not much to buy in Fujairah. Hypermarkets sell various aromatic hand and body creams from India, Malaysia and other places in Southeast Asia at prices starting from $3 per 250 ml.

In an empty shopping and entertainment center next to the hotel, La Mer cosmetics are sold at prices 5-10 percent lower than in Russia. However, you can buy it even cheaper at Duty Free Dubai.

At a distance of 3 km from the center at the exit of the city there is a large mall, City Center. Worthy of attention are professional cosmetics salons Inglot and MAC with prices 10-15 percent lower than in Russia. There is also H&M, which sells sale items. For example, jeans starting at $20. But I didn’t buy anything for myself there. It’s better to go to a Dubai outlet and buy Guess jeans there for $50 or more.

The only store worth visiting is Splash. There you can buy Splash and Lee Cooper T-shirts, as well as Italian Kappa sportswear. T-shirts start at $8.

For souvenirs you can buy various little things, such as laces, wallets, magnets from 2 dollars on the street, either in covered markets, or in shops that are not far from the large mosque. But all this is of unsightly quality. Therefore, it is better to buy Arabic dates at Lu-Lu.

In duty free you can buy gold jewelry from my favorite Thai company, Prima Gold, at prices like 24K gold for an 8-mg piece starting at $650.

Cost of services and entertainment

Since we lived in the center, we walked to Fort Fujairah, clubs, and city shopping centers. And to other places - the mall. To places such as the City Center, the port, the stadium where bullfights are held - you can take a taxi for 3 dollars. The distance is the same everywhere - about 3 km.

Family holiday

Calm atmosphere. Safely. Some entertainment (parks, attractions, cafes, restaurants, museums).

What to take with you on vacation?

First aid kit, sunscreen, after-sun products, panama hats/hats, swimsuits, diving goggles, snorkel, mask, coral slippers.

Where is the best place to stay?

We lived at the Sandy beach hotel. Three Stars. Since there is nothing to compare with, I will write the pros and cons of this hotel.

Pros: 1. The room's windows overlook the ocean (this is a fantastic feeling and indescribable beauty, in the morning you can hear the sound of the waves, which is so nice to wake up to). 2. The purest crystal water, the opportunity to dive and see corals and a variety of colored fish. 3. Very clean room (and not only that, but the entire hotel area). 4. The room has everything you need (including a safe, electric kettle, hairdryer, shampoo, soap, shower gel). 5. There is a swimming pool on site. 6. The beach is sandy, clean, simply gorgeous. 7. The hotel area is not huge, but quite cozy, there is a lot of greenery and flowers (all with automatic watering). 8. Meals included breakfast (buffet) and dinner (3 options to choose from on the menu). 9. Multinational guests (including local Arabs). However, the people are all cultured and quiet. There was no discomfort felt from the fact that Muslims were resting nearby. Although, for example, if their women swam, they wore one-piece swimsuits (like a diving suit or something). But there was no infringement of the rights of those who were accustomed to bikinis.

Cons: 1. The food is quite monotonous. Breakfast is a buffet (bread, a couple of types of pastries, several types of cheese, boiled eggs, olives, vegetables, fruits, tea, coffee). For dinner there were three options on the menu to choose from. It seems like there is a choice, but these three options were repeated all the time. If it is not important for you, then you can not include this point in the minuses. Fish, chicken and meat (lamb, beef). And a side dish. It's either rice or Mac-style fried potatoes. Some fresh or grilled vegetables. You won't die of hunger for sure. If you want more varied delights, go to a restaurant or cafe, of which there are plenty in Fujairah and the prices are quite affordable. 2. There are sea urchins. It’s better not to take a dip without coral slippers. After all, if you step on such a needle-like lump, you can get quite serious wounds.

You shouldn't expect luxury shopping from Fujairah at all. This is not Dubai and you won’t be able to find world-famous brands. But in this emirate there are many shops with a fixed price, where for little money you can find Indian cosmetics (excellent in quality and cost pennies here), souvenirs (magnets, figurines, cups, bags, etc.), inexpensive knitwear (Indian or Turkish, Chinese predominates, but it’s not very good for me).

I advise you to visit the local bazaar (souk) and buy dates (there are an incredible number of varieties) and spices (the freshest and the assortment is gorgeous).

There are a lot of cafes and restaurants. The good news is that, regardless of the level of the establishment, it is always fresh (prepared in front of you) and the risk of poisoning is minimal (in the UAE this is strict and there are huge fines for violating the rules). The prices are also not that exorbitant. Eating for a family of three in an inexpensive restaurant costs about 15-20 dollars. This is without seafood and alcohol (it is prohibited). The portions are huge.