Fujairah, United Arab Emirates

Arrived in Fujairah this morning. It’s a new port for us so we’d booked an excursion to take us to Fujairah Fort/Castle, the museum, an oasis, the Friday Market (that’s open every day 🤣) and the Bidiya mosque, the oldest mosque in the UAE.

It was quickly apparent that Fujairah is quite different than Dubai - not flashy at all but still new looking. It’s evident the government is investing significantly in infrastructure and housing. We learned that citizens can be granted the use of government land to build a house which remains theirs in perpetuity. They can’t sell it. We saw many such houses under construction.

The sites we visited were what you’d expect. When we visited the Friday Market, we spotted a bakery on a side street and walked over to see two men making fresh roti. When we asked to buy just one, they simply gave it to us, no charge. It was a sweet moment. And yummy.

When we reached the mosque, I was surprised to learn we’d be able to go inside. The tour description had said we wouldn’t be so II hadn’t worn my “modest clothing.” Fortunately, Brad noticed an office on the property that was loaning women the necessary coverings so I was able to enter. It was built in 1446 and is made of clay. Glad I got to see it.Read more