Sharjah’s development authority has announced plans to ‘revitalise’ Khor Fakkan’s 3-kilometre beachfront in-line with ambitions of turning the domestic getaway haven into a global tourist attraction and cruise destination.

The project will be conducted in two phases, according to the Sharjah Investment and Development Authority, also known as Shurooq.

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The first phase will transform the south side of the beach (from the port to the main roundabout). An amphitheatre and walkway overlooking the beach will be built, making it much easier for cruise passengers to walk into town from the new cruise terminal.

The water front corniche is several kilometres long and flanked by palm trees, gardens, kiosks and playgrounds overlooking the beach. It links the port and the fish market with the Oceanic Khorfakkan Resort & Spa, one of the oldest and grandest hotels in the area.

Sports courts (including a skate-boarding and roller-blading area) will also be developed, along with picnic areas and playgrounds. A little further along, there’s be a promenade of restaurants, cafes and beachfront shops.

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In-between all of this there will be gardens that incorporate Islamic architecture, and changing rooms for swimmers.

This area will see the greatest amount of work and investment. On the northern part of the beach, the second stage of the development will see picnic areas for families built.

Shurooq did not announce a completion date for the project, but it is likely that it will fall somewhere in the third quarter of 2019, just before the start of the 2019/2020 Arabian Gulf cruise season, which will also be the busiest the region has ever seen.

Marwan Al Sarkal, executive chairman of Shurooq, said the authority was keen to make Khor Fakkan one of the most attractive tourism destinations, while preserving its aesthetics.

“The city of Khor Fakkan is one of the most beautiful cities on the east coast of the UAE,” he said. “It is an ideal destination for visitors looking to relax in nature. The development offers endless attractions for families and tourists.”

“It provides modern facilities and high-end services that will add value and encourage a healthy lifestyle among residents and visitors to Khor Fakkan,” he added.