Khor Fakkan: A Hidden Gem on the Gulf of Oman

• Helloمرحبا
  [marhaba]
• Goodbyeوداعا
  [wadaeana]
• Yesنعم
  [naam]
• Noلا
  [laa]
• Please/You're welcomeمن فضلك
  [min fadlik]
• Thank youشكرا لك
  [shukran lak]
• Excuse me/Sorryعذرا
  [athara]
• How are you?كيف حالك؟
  [kayf halak?]
• Fine. And you?بخير. وأنت؟
  [bikhayr. wa'ant?]
• Do you speak English?هل تتحدث الإنجليزية؟
  [hal tatahadath al'injlizia?]
• I don't understandلا أفهم
  [la afham]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseأريد أن أرى القائمة، من فضلك
  [urid an ara alqaimah, min fadlik]
• I don't eat meatأنا لا آكل اللحم
  [ana la akl allahm]
• Cheers!صحتك
  [sahhtak]
• I would like to pay, pleaseأريد أن أدفع، من فضلك
  [urid an adfae, min fadlik]

• Help!النجدة!
  [alnajdah!]
• Go away!انصرف!
  [ansarif!]
• Call the Police!اتصل بالشرطة!
  [atassal bialshurta!]
• Call a doctor!اتصل بالطبيب!
  [atassal bialtabib!]
• I'm lostلقد ضللت
  [lqad dalalt]
• I'm illأنا مريض
  [ana mareed]

• I'd like to buy...أريد أن أشتري...
  [urid an ashtari...]
• I'm just lookingأنا فقط أتطلع
  [ana faqat atatala]
• How much is it?كم سعره؟
  [kam siroh?]
• That's too expensiveهذا غالي جدا
  [hatha ghali jiddan]
• Can you lower the price?هل يمكنك خفض السعر؟
  [hal yumkinuk khafdh alsir?]

• What time is it?كم الساعة؟
  [kam alsaeah?]
• It's one o'clockالساعة الواحدة
  [alsaeah alwahidah]
• Half past (10)الساعة العاشرة والنصف
  [alsaeah alashirah walinisf]
• Morningصباحا
  [sabahan]
• Afternoonبعد الظهر
  [baed alduhar]
• Eveningمساء
  [masaa]
• Yesterdayأمس
  [ams]
• Todayاليوم
  [alyawm]
• Tomorrowغدا
  [ghadan]
• 1واحد
  [wahid]
• 2اثنان
  [ithnan]
• 3ثلاثة
  [thalatha]
• 4أربعة
  [arbaah]
• 5خمسة
  [khamsah]
• 6ستة
  [sittah]
• 7سبعة
  [sabah]
• 8ثمانية
  [thamania]
• 9تسعة
  [tisaah]
• 10عشرة
  [asharah]

• Where's a/the...?أين هو/هي...؟
  [ayn huwa/hiya...?]
• What's the address?ما هو العنوان؟
  [ma huwa alenwan?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?هل يمكنك أن تريني (على الخريطة)؟
  [hal yumkinuka an tarini (ala alkharitah)?]
• When's the next (bus)?متى يأتي القادم (الحافلة)؟
  [mata yati alqadim (alhafilah)?]
• A ticket (to ....)تذكرة (إلى ...)
  [tazkirah (ila ...)]

Khor Fakkan, which translates to 'Creek of Two Jaws,' has a history that dates back thousands of years. Archaeological evidence suggests that the area was inhabited during the Neolithic period. The natural harbor provided an ideal location for early settlers, offering both abundant marine life and fertile lands for agriculture.

In the early 16th century, the Portuguese arrived in the region and recognized the strategic importance of Khor Fakkan. They constructed a fort to control the maritime routes and protect their interests in the Indian Ocean. Remnants of these fortifications can still be seen today, offering a glimpse into the area's colonial past.

During the 17th century, Khor Fakkan came under the control of the Al Qasimi dynasty of Oman. This period saw the town flourish as a trading hub, with goods from as far as India and East Africa passing through its ports. The influence of Omani culture can still be felt in the architecture and traditions of the area.

In the 19th century, Khor Fakkan, like much of the Arabian Peninsula, fell under British influence. The British were keen to secure maritime routes and protect their colonial interests in India. Treaties were signed with local rulers, ensuring British dominance in the region. This era also saw the introduction of modern infrastructure and administrative systems.

With the formation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, Khor Fakkan became part of the Emirate of Sharjah. This period marked significant development and modernization. Investments in infrastructure, education, and healthcare transformed the town into a modern urban center while preserving its rich cultural heritage.

Khor Fakkan is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, which is celebrated through various festivals and events. Traditional crafts, such as pottery and weaving, are still practiced, and the local cuisine offers a blend of flavors influenced by the town's diverse history. The annual Khor Fakkan Festival is a highlight, showcasing traditional music, dance, and arts.

Khor Fakkan is located on the eastern coast of the United Arab Emirates, along the Gulf of Oman. The nearest major airport is Dubai International Airport (DXB), approximately 130 kilometers away. From Dubai, you can rent a car or take a taxi to Khor Fakkan, which takes around 1.5 to 2 hours by road. Alternatively, Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) is about 90 kilometers away and offers another option for travelers. Public buses also operate between Dubai, Sharjah, and Khor Fakkan, providing a budget-friendly way to reach the city.

Khor Fakkan is relatively small, and many attractions are within walking distance. Taxis are readily available and are a convenient way to get around. For those looking to explore beyond the city, rental cars are a good option. Public buses connect Khor Fakkan to nearby cities such as Fujairah and Sharjah. There is no local train service, but the road network is well-maintained, making road travel a feasible option.

The official currency in the United Arab Emirates is the UAE Dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases or transactions in local markets. ATMs are available throughout Khor Fakkan, so withdrawing cash is convenient.

Khor Fakkan is generally a very safe destination for tourists. The crime rate is low, and violent crimes are rare. However, as with any travel destination, it is wise to take standard precautions. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places and avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but staying vigilant is always advisable.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police assistance, 998 for ambulance services, and 997 for the fire department. Khor Fakkan has medical facilities and pharmacies where you can seek help for minor health issues. It is highly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing in public areas. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Be mindful when taking photographs of religious sites or local people. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and use the right hand for all social interactions, including eating and giving gifts. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Khor Fakkan like a local, visit the old market (Souq), where you can buy fresh produce, spices, and traditional Emirati goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre and the Al Rabi Tower hike for panoramic views of the city and coastline. For a unique experience, take a boat tour to explore the beautiful marine life and coral reefs.