• 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 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.
    The area includes a restored souq.
  • And traditional shops.
    And traditional shops.
  • Many tourist attractions are being built in the enclave, attracting visitors from across the UAE and world.
    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.
    The renovated area will also include a hotel when complete.
  • Sheikh Dr Sultan touring the area.
    Sheikh Dr Sultan touring the area.

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


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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.