Khorfakkan Waterfall Sharjah 2026 | Location, Guide & Visit Tips | Explore

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Khorfakkan Waterfall is an artificial waterfall, adjacent to the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre on the East Coast of Sharjah, UAE. It was constructed in the natural rock face against the foot of Al Sayed Mountain and faces Khorfakkan beach and the Corniche. The waterfall block structure is about 45 metres long and 11 metres wide; the waterfall is from around 43 metres above sea level. It comes with viewing windows and is back-illuminated at night. 

The Khorfakkan Amphitheatre’s launch is accompanied by the attraction’s opening in December 2020. According to the official Sharjah tourist authority, the waterfall is a natural rock-cut 45-metre-high cascade adjacent to the amphitheatre.

Khorfakkan is among the most unique places in Sharjah – tagged to the mountains of Hajar, the coastline of the Gulf of Oman, and the specially built cultural attractions. It is home to world-renowned landmarks such as Khorfakkan Waterfall which lies next to the Romanesque amphitheatre overlooking Khorfakkan’s Corniche.

The area is natural but the waterfall is man-made. It is built into the shape of the mountain, forming a spectacular waterfall next to the amphitheatre. The site is ideal for sightseeing as well as photography due to its rock, water, architecture and sea views.

Where is Khorfakkan Waterfall located?

Khorfakkan Waterfall is situated in Khorfakkan, which is situated in the Emirate of Sharjah on the eastern side. From a geographical perspective, Khorfakkan would be in Fujairah but would be in Sharjah.

The waterfall overlooks the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre, rests at the base of Al Sayed Mountain and is oriented towards Khorfakkan Beach. That allows visitors to visit more attractions and multiply them in the same trip, not just the waterfall.  According to the official Sharjah Tourism Authority, Khorfakkan Amphitheatre and Waterfall is one of the main attractions on the East Coast. 

Quick Location Facts

Is Khorfakkan Waterfall Natural?

The waterfall of Khorfakkan is artificial. One of the key things to know before visiting. The waterfall was built from the natural rocks and rugged terrain of the area and sometimes looks like a natural waterfall from a distance.

According to the official website of tourism in Sharjah, it is a waterfall cut out of natural rock. The project is part of the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre Destination and opened its doors in December 2020. This type is also different from the natural mountain waterfalls which rely on rainfall or a natural spring stream. The allure of Khorfakkan’s is a man-made tourism symbol meshed into the mountain world.

How Big Is the Waterfall?

It is about 45 metres in length and 11 metres in width, and the structure is located at a height of about 43 metres above sea level. The structure includes windows that allow visitors to see the water flowing down the streams through the rock formation. 

These are Sharjah’s tourism authority’s description of a 45-metre-high cascade and other official descriptions of the 45-metre length and its elevation above sea level. It is best not to “collapse” all of these measurements into one generic “height” number since they represent various aspects of the attraction.

Khorfakkan Amphitheatre and Waterfall

The waterfall is closely tied to the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre; not to mention the fact that it’s a standalone event, it’s not isolated. The amphitheatre is over 1,700 sq m in area, and has been designed with Roman architectural influence. Official Sharjah tourism information states it will be able to seat over 3500 people.

The official inauguration report stated that the amphitheatre has been equipped with modern lighting, acoustics and cooling system, whereas the waterfall building has been made with facilities for the visitors and is connected to the amphitheatre through elevators and a walkway. 

What Can You See at Khorfakkan Waterfall?

Though the waterfall is the focus, the scenery around it is likely also to be significant.

Visitors can see:

• Natural rock over which the waterfall is executed artificially.
• Khorfakkan Amphitheatre
• Khorfakkan Beach
• The Corniche
• Mountain scenery
• Panoramic Coastal views of the Gulf of Oman
• Rocks in the immediate vicinity

The official Sharjah tourism authority emphasizes the opportunities to view the waterfall and amphitheatre area and the beach from the sea. They are especially convenient for those who would like to take pictures but cannot hike up the mountains for an extended time.

Best Time to Visit Khorfakkan Waterfall

Outdoor viewing in Khorfakkan is best done in the cooler seasons, from late autumn to winter and early spring. The late afternoon can be helpful for the photo subjects, as lighting becomes softer and the surrounding coastline and mountains show on the horizon. 

A night-time visit will be at a different time of the day as the waterfall can be lit up at this time of day. According to the official tourism authority of Sharjah, the waterfall is lit at night. Plan outdoor activities to avoid the heat of summer months. People can find it difficult to see for long periods of time during the heat of day.

Practical timing strategy

Morning: good for cooler temperatures and for less activity.

Late afternoon: ideal for photography and incorporating the waterfall with the beach.

Evening: If you wish to see the illuminated waterfall and enjoy the Corniche after sunset.

Is Khorfakkan Waterfall Free to Visit? 

Its waterfall is reportedly a free public event and has previously been featured in the UAE as one of the amphitheaters and waterfalls at the Khorfakkan tourist sights. Free access is not the same as freedom of access to all activities and events offered at the larger site, however. Arrangements for special performances, organised experiences or other facilities may differ from those listed above.

Further, there is also no permanent schedule of official visitor hours for the waterfall at this time. Thus, it would be advisable not to follow the opening hours guidelines provided by unofficial sites putting themselves out there as an official source. 

Parking and Visitor Facilities

The waterfall is not a separate hiking path but a place where the tourism business is developed. The place offers a set-up for a visitor, as there is the close-by amphitheatre and Corniche. The initial project had facilities catering to visitors alongside the waterfall, such as outdoor seating and a restaurant/cafe. There were also elevators and a walkway from the waterfall building to the amphitheatre.

Visitors should not imagine that car-parking is available immediately by the waterfall when they are actually looking for parking around the amphitheatre/Corniche area and should follow the public car park and traffic signs.

Is Khorfakkan Waterfall Suitable for Families? 

Yes, the attraction can be part of a family day trip as visitors can sightsee and enjoy the beach, Corniche and nearby attractions. The official Sharjah tourism authority showcases Khorfakkan as a family-friendly place on the East Coast offering beaches, playgrounds and other recreational facilities. When children are young, the primary concern of the family is not the waterfall; it’s outdoor safety:

• Do not allow children to be near limited edges and viewing spaces.
• Obey signs and directions.
• Supervise children when on wet surfaces.
• Bring drinking water, particularly when outside during off-peak seasons.
• Walk on pedestrian trails.
• Always check closures ahead of travel, due to events.

Things to Do Near Khorfakkan Waterfall 

1. Khorfakkan Beach

The beach in Khorfakkan lies along the city’s seafront and is a favourite attraction among locals. It’s a 3km long crescent beach, according to the official Sharjah tourism authority, that offers opportunities for fishing and water sports.

2. Khorfakkan Corniche

This walk takes place along the Corniche footpath which offers a coastal experience with views across the bay. The whole area is facing the waterfall, so the two provide a waterfront and a mountain view.

3. Al Rafisah Dam

The final location offers a mountain reservoir, hop-on-hop-off trails, family activities, boating and kayaking. Its own artificial waterfall is not to be mistaken for Khorfakkan Waterfall. According to official Sharjah tourism information the height of the Al Rafisah waterfall is about 55 metres.

4. Shees Park

An even more mountain-themed park experience in the Khorfakkan area is possible at Shees Park. According to official Sharjah tourism information, the park will feature a waterfall taller than 25 metres, children’s amenities, shade for seating, walking trails and a viewing platform.

5. Al Suhub Rest Area

Al Suhub Rest Area would definitely make the Khorfakkan itinerary for the panoramic view of the mountains and the coastal area. As opposed to taking in the view of the mountains from down below, it offers a unique perspective from above, looking around the city and beyond. 

Khorfakkan Waterfall vs Al Rafisah Dam Waterfall

These attractions are easy to confuse because both are artificial waterfalls in the wider Sharjah East Coast region.

How Long Do You Need at Khorfakkan Waterfall?

For the waterfall and amphitheatre alone, around 45 minutes to 1.5 hours is generally a reasonable planning allowance. 

• Explore the amphitheatre
• Take photographs
• Take a stroll along the Corniche.
• Visit Khorfakkan Beach
• Eat nearby
• Sit in an amphitheatre scheduled event.

The waterfall is one-day trip to Khorfakkan and can be part of a bigger program if you want to make a full-day trip there.

What’s so special about Khorfakkan Waterfall?

The waterfall is not the main attraction – it is the mix of features that is the main attraction.

• Waterfall installed into natural rock in a special shape
• A unique Roman-style amphitheatre
• Mountain scenery
• Opinions about the Beach of Khorfakkan
• Easy access to the Corniche
• A good performance in the Software Design scenario for photos
• An opportunity to explore a combination of cultural, coastal and mountain opportunities.

The Sharjah official tourist office named the amphitheatre and waterfall as one of the city’s main attractions and the Sharjah official website mentions that it was inaugurated as part of Khorfakkan tourism. 

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FAQs

Is Khorfakkan Waterfall originally natural?

No. A man-made waterfall built into the natural rock formation next to the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre.

What is Khorfakkan Waterfall?

It is in Khorfakkan, Sharjah next to the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre and facing Khorfakkan Corniche & beach. 

What is the height of Khorfakkan Waterfall?

The official sources say the waterfall is a 45-metre-high cascade while the specifications for the inauguration say the waterfall structure is 45 metres in length, 11 metres in breadth and at an average height of 43 metres above sea level.

When was Khorfakkan Waterfall opened?

The waterfall tourist destination was opened to the public on 14 December 2020 along with Khorfakkan Amphitheatre. 

Do you have to pay for Khorfakkan Waterfall?

The attraction is generally advertised as a ‘free’ attraction. However, if separate events/activities are held at the wider complex then that may have different admission fees.

Are there any night hours available for visiting the waterfall?

Lighting up the waterfall in the evening makes it possible to see it at night, and offers a different perspective.

How is Khorfakkan Waterfall good for kids?

Yes. Can be combined with Khorfakkan Beach & other family-friendly events for a family trip. Kids should stick to the planned and arranged visiting zones.

What’s there to see around Khorfakkan Waterfall?

Plus local sites Khorfakkan Beach, Corniche and the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre. Other East Coast attractions are Al Rafisah Dam and Shees Park, which can be incorporated into a larger day trip.

Is Khorfakkan Waterfall equal to Al Rafisah Dam waterfall?

No. They are unique man-made falls in various places. Al Rahisah’s waterfall is located as part of dam and reservoir destination while Khorfakkan Waterfall is located next to an amphitheatre and coast. 

Disclaimer

Visitor facilities, access arrangements, event schedules and operating conditions can change. Check official Sharjah tourism or venue information before travelling, especially around public events and holidays.