UAE Site Given Special Archaeological Status

Add another fun spot to your must-visit list!

Sira Khorfakkan Island is a beautiful place to visit with friends and family, and it has now been approved as an archaeological reserve.

With the nearby Khorfakkan public beach being a haven for snorkelers and scuba divers, this Sharjah spot should be one of the first places on your list if you’re looking to travel around the UAE. 

Approved by HH Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, you can still see pottery fragments across the coast and settlements dating back to the 13th century.

A stone basin restored with copper has been found – indicating that the island was wealthy – as well as 16th century pottery imported from southern China.

The island overlooks the entrance of Khorfakkan from the east, giving it strategic significance in monitoring marine traffic in the Sea of Oman.

The move is the latest milestone to recognise Sharjah’s historic importance – after four ancient sites were added to the preliminary UNESCO World Heritage List.

The site of Mleiha, the stone inscriptions in Khatum Melaha and Khor Fakkan, the site of Wadi Helo and the site of Faya are all included.