The advent of the free trade zone in the Emirate marked the beginning of rapid social and economic development a decade ago.

Due to its strategic location, Fujairah offers UAE's only access to the Indian Ocean and therefore boasts a bustling, multi-purpose port which ranks as one of the top three bunkering locations in the world, along with Singapore and Rotterdam.

With rapid diversification in these various areas, Fujairah has fast become a thriving tourist destination thanks to the Emirate's natural beauty, white sandy beaches, mountains and wadis.

• Fujairah is the only Emirate of the UAE that is almost totally mountainous. All the other Emirates, like Dubai and Abu Dhabi are located on the west coast, and are largely covered by desert.
• Fujairah boasts the highest amount of yearly rainfall in the UAE.
• Diving in Fujairah is considered to be the best in the UAE and boasts a reef trailing 55 miles off the coast.
• Fujairah Fort is one of the oldest forts in the region, dating back 360 years.
• Fujairah is also famous for its bull fighting in the winter time - a bloodless sport in which two bulls test their strength against one another.

The Emirate is known for its breathtaking scenery and beauty where jagged mountains and valleys sweep down to the settled palm-fringed coastal plain. Stunning beaches and amazing diving locations make Fujairah amongst some of the most beautiful places to visit in the UAE. Fujairah also features many cultural and historic sites due its strong heritage, culture.

While in Fujairah, be sure to visit the Fujairah Fort, a 360 year old fort severely damaged in the early twentieth century by a British bombardment that has been recently restored. Right next to the fort, you will find the Heritage Village which has a good selection of traditional houses ('arish) and fishing boats (shasha)that are used for fishing and agriculture, the two traditional mainstays of the economy.

Another tourist attraction in Fujairah is the Ain Al Madhab Gardens, which is a mineral spa with chalet accommodation on the western edge of the town.

Lastly, time permitting make sure to visit the areas around Fujairah such as Dibba, Sharm, Bidya, Wadi Wurrayah, Husn Madhab, Wadi Maidaq, Kalba, Khor Kalba, Awhala, Hayl, Wadi Farfar, Bithna which also offer the tourist in to the rich history and heritage of the Emirate of Fujairah.