In the heart of Sharjah’s mountains lies Wadi Shees, one of the most beautiful places to visit and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Nestled in the rugged mountains of Hajar, this little-known destination boasts abundant greenery, streams, landscaped gardens, waterfalls and hiking trails for all kinds of visitors all year long.
Wadi Shees is situated near the UAE-Oman border, and is renowned for its beauty as well as its modern amenities, making it one of the best places to spend a relaxing day trip from Dubai, Sharjah or Fujairah. Whether you’re looking for a quiet picnic spot, breathtaking mountain scenery, or fresh air, Wadi Shees is a place you’ll want to add to your travel itinerary.
Where is Wadi Shees Located?
Wadi Shees is located in the village of Shees, which is located in the eastern part of Sharjah, near Khor Fakkan. The destination is within the Hajar Mountains which is about 90 minutes drive from Dubai and about 1 hour from Sharjah City.
As well as the drive, there is a lot of drama in mountain roads, tunnels and spectacular scenery that must be enjoyed along the way until reaching the valley.
Why Visit Wadi Shees?
Wadi Shees is a very different place to visit, compared to many of the other desert sites in the UAE. The serene scene is created by natural fresh water streams, green terraces, palm trees, and mountains, giving a sense of being far away from the hustle and bustle of the cities.
The picnic grounds and playgrounds are popular among families, and the hiking trails and close-by mountain paths are great for adventurers. Valley is one of the most favored outdoor attractions in the UAE during the winter season.
Best Time to Visit Wadi Shees
The best time to go is from October to April when the weather is not too hot and not too cold.
Early mornings are cooler, less of the light, and less of the people – ideal for photography. The sunrise is just as gorgeous, with its rays reflecting off of the mountains in the background.
Visits are possible during the summer, although it can be quite hot in the afternoon.
Things to Do at Wadi Shees
Explore the Beautiful Walking Trails
The network of beautifully designed walking paths is one of the highlights of Wadi Shees. Visitors can walk through the landscaped gardens, look out over the valley from various viewpoints and cross over a few small bridges.
The trails are appropriate for any family and are not advanced hikes.
Relax by the Waterfalls
Artificial waterfalls seamlessly integrate with the mountain scenery, providing a serene and tranquil ambiance with the soothing sound of a waterfall. The waterfalls are one of the most popular sights in Wadi Shees and have been captured with camera ever since.
Enjoy a Family Picnic
Wadi Shees is a perfect place for your picnic as there are many shaded sitting areas. Many families come with food, sit under the trees and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
The open green spaces are ideal for children to explore and play, and the mountain views are great for the parents.
Photography
Wadi Shees offers endless opportunities to nature photographers. Popular photography locations are:
Mountain landscapes, landscaped terraces, running waterfalls, wooden bridges, palm trees, scenic vistas, sunrise from the Hajar Mountains and golden-hours landscape.
Watch Local Wildlife
You can see small birds, butterflies and native wildlife of the mountain on the walk through the valley. Wildlife photography is particularly rewarding in the early morning hours, owing to the peaceful ambiance.
Visit Shees Hanging Garden
Wadi Shees is home to the breathtaking Shees Hanging Garden, one of the newest attractions. The garden is nestled into the side of the mountain, with hundreds of terraces, colorful flowers, waterfalls, shade and seating areas, hiking trails and elevated vantage points that look out over the valley.
The Hanging Garden is one of the most amazing outdoor events in Sharjah and is an ideal accompaniment to a trip to Wadi Shees.
Facilities Available
Wadi Shees has been developed, but with the visitor in mind, not the detriment of the environment. The facilities include clean walking paths, public restrooms, children’s play areas, picnic areas, shaded seating areas, landscaped gardens, parking areas and viewing platforms.
These facilities are made pleasant for all visitors including the elderly.
How to Reach Wadi Shees
Wadi Shees can be best reached by private car.
Leave Dubai on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) or Emirates Road (E611) and head towards Khor Fakkan then take signs to Shees.
The journey from Sharjah to Al Barsha is about 1 hour by car.
Accurate navigation, and roads are completely paved to Wadi Shees.
Entry Fee
The other thing that makes the Wadi Shees a great place to visit is that it is generally free entry, so that it is an affordable place to spend time with family and tourists looking to explore the natural beauty of the UAE.
Also there is parking near the main entrance.
Nearby Attractions
If you have additional time, you may want to explore other Sharjah sights in this eastern part of the city including:
Shees Hanging Garden, Khor Fakkan Beach, Al Rafisah Dam, Najd Al Maqsar Heritage Village, Wadi Wurayah National Park and Al Suhub Rest Area.
These locations can make for a memorable journey through the Hajar Mountains.
Travel Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Bring plenty of water to drink.
- Use a sunscreen before you go outside.
- Sun hats and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Take light snacks when out for a longer time.
- Carry a fully charged cell phone.
- Bring a power bank (particularly if you are taking lots of pictures).
Is Wadi Shees Worth Visiting?
Absolutely. Wadi Shees is unique in providing the mountain views, greenery, quiet strolling paths, waterfalls and family activities together. Whether you are looking for a relaxing weekend break, a scenic drive or a photography trip, this hidden gem of the UAE has something to offer every kind of traveler.
Wadi Shees is one of the most attractive outdoor activities in Sharjah, due to its natural quality, accessibility and free entry.
Conclusion
Wadi Shees is one of the most picturesque natural getaways in Sharjah, with its beautiful mountain scenery, green nature, serene strolls, and family amenities. From a leisurely picnic to a photography tour or a weekend getaway, there’s something here that’s a breath of fresh air from the hustle and bustle of the city. A place that deserves to be added to every tour of UAE, Wadi Shees is a free entry, easy road access and a place with fun activities nearby such as Shees Hanging Garden and Al Rafisah Dam.
FAQs
Can Wadi Shees go in?
Yes, it is free to enter Wadi Shees.
Are there any visiting families for Wadi Shees?
Yes. The location is family friendly with playgrounds, picnic facilities, walking trails and open green spaces.
What is the distance between Wadi Shees and Dubai?
The drive usually takes about 90 minutes (some traffic may slow the trip down).
Do you have a parking spot?
Yes, there is parking near the main entrance.
When’s the best time to go?
October through April is the best time to visit the area for cooler weather.
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