Fujairah

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Cultural Events

Sections

1. Fujairah International Arts Festival

  • Type of Event: Cultural and artistic performances, shopping stalls, and entertainment.
  • Venue: Various locations across Fujairah, including Fujairah Corniche and Fujairah Fort.
  • Details: This annual festival celebrates art, music, and culture from around the world. It features live performances, traditional Emirati music and dance, art exhibitions, and a marketplace with local crafts, souvenirs, and food stalls.
  • Costs: Entry to most events is free, but some workshops or premium performances may require tickets (usually ranging from AED 50–100).
  • Ticketing Procedures: Tickets for specific events can be purchased online through the festival’s official website or at designated counters at the venue.
  • Schedule: Typically held in February or March. Events run throughout the day and into the evening.
  • Local Customs: Dress modestly, especially if attending events near historical or cultural sites. Photography is usually allowed, but always ask for permission before taking pictures of people, especially women.

2. Fujairah Friday Market (Souq Al Juma)

  • Type of Event: Traditional open-air market with shopping and entertainment.
  • Venue: Located on the Fujairah-Dubai highway (E89), near Masafi.
  • Details: This bustling market operates year-round but is especially lively on weekends. It offers a mix of traditional Emirati goods, including carpets, pottery, fresh produce, and souvenirs. Entertainment often includes live music or traditional performances during special occasions like National Day or Ramadan.
  • Costs: Free entry. Prices for goods are negotiable, so bargaining is encouraged.
  • Ticketing Procedures: No tickets required.
  • Schedule: Open daily, but busiest on Fridays and weekends (9:00 AM–10:00 PM).
  • Local Customs: Bargaining is part of the shopping experience, but always remain polite. Dress modestly, and avoid public displays of affection.

3. Fujairah Mall Events

  • Type of Event: Shopping festivals, live entertainment, and family-friendly activities.
  • Venues: Fujairah Mall, City Centre Fujairah, and Lulu Mall.
  • Details: Fujairah’s malls frequently host shopping festivals, especially during the Dubai Shopping Festival (January–February) and Ramadan. These events include discounts, raffles, live music, and cultural performances. Family-friendly activities like face painting, henna art, and traditional Emirati storytelling are also common.
  • Costs: Free entry to malls. Shopping discounts vary, and some activities may have small fees (AED 10–50).
  • Ticketing Procedures: No tickets required for general entry. Raffle participation may require a minimum spend at the mall.
  • Schedule: Events are typically held during major UAE holidays, weekends, and shopping festivals.
  • Local Customs: Dress modestly, especially during Ramadan. Avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours in Ramadan.

4. Fujairah Heritage Village Events

  • Type of Event: Cultural exhibitions, traditional crafts, and live performances.
  • Venue: Fujairah Heritage Village, near Fujairah Fort.
  • Details: The Heritage Village hosts events showcasing traditional Emirati life, including camel rides, falconry displays, and handicraft demonstrations. Visitors can shop for handmade goods like woven baskets, jewelry, and spices. During special occasions like UAE National Day, the village comes alive with music, dance, and food stalls.
  • Costs: Entry fees are minimal (around AED 5–10). Prices for goods vary.
  • Ticketing Procedures: Tickets can be purchased at the entrance.
  • Schedule: Open year-round, but special events are held during UAE National Day (December 2), Ramadan, and Eid.
  • Local Customs: Respect the cultural significance of the exhibits. Avoid touching artifacts unless permitted.

5. Fujairah Corniche Festivals

  • Type of Event: Outdoor festivals with shopping, food, and entertainment.
  • Venue: Fujairah Corniche.
  • Details: The Corniche hosts seasonal festivals featuring food trucks, pop-up shops, and live entertainment. These events often include traditional Emirati music and dance, as well as modern performances. Visitors can shop for local crafts, jewelry, and clothing.
  • Costs: Free entry. Food and shopping prices vary.
  • Ticketing Procedures: No tickets required.
  • Schedule: Most active during cooler months (October–March), especially on weekends.
  • Local Customs: Dress modestly and dispose of trash responsibly to respect the environment.

6. Fujairah International Monodrama Festival

  • Type of Event: Theatrical performances and cultural exhibitions.
  • Venue: Fujairah Theatre and other cultural venues.
  • Details: This unique festival focuses on monodrama (solo performances) and attracts artists from around the world. Alongside the performances, there are cultural exhibitions and workshops. Visitors can also shop for books, art, and crafts at the festival marketplace.
  • Costs: Ticket prices for performances range from AED 50–150. Entry to exhibitions and the marketplace is free.
  • Ticketing Procedures: Tickets can be purchased online or at the venue.
  • Schedule: Held every two years, usually in January or February.
  • Local Customs: Arrive early to secure good seats. Dress modestly, and avoid loud conversations during performances.

7. Ramadan Night Markets

  • Type of Event: Nighttime shopping and entertainment during Ramadan.
  • Venues: Fujairah Exhibition Centre and various malls.
  • Details: These markets come alive after sunset during Ramadan, offering a mix of shopping, food, and cultural activities. Visitors can enjoy traditional Emirati dishes, shop for Ramadan-themed goods, and watch live performances.
  • Costs: Free entry. Prices for goods and food vary.
  • Ticketing Procedures: No tickets required.
  • Schedule: Held nightly during Ramadan, from Iftar (sunset) until late (around midnight or 1:00 AM).
  • Local Customs: Avoid eating or drinking in public before Iftar. Dress modestly, and greet people with “Ramadan Kareem.”

Practical Tips for Visitors

  1. Transportation: Public transport in Fujairah is limited, so consider renting a car or using taxis to get around. Many venues offer free parking.
  2. Weather: Most outdoor events are held during the cooler months (October–March). Dress appropriately for the weather.
  3. Cultural Sensitivity: Fujairah is more traditional than Dubai or Abu Dhabi. Modest clothing is recommended, especially at cultural events and religious sites.
  4. Language: While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken, especially at events and shopping venues.
  5. Currency: The local currency is the UAE Dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry cash for smaller vendors.

By attending these events, you’ll not only enjoy shopping and entertainment but also gain a deeper appreciation for Fujairah’s rich cultural heritage. Let me know if you need further assistance planning your visit!