It is a unique piece of natural land feature on the east coast of the United Arab Emirates that is located just off the coast of Khorfakkan. This tiny island with its recognizable Snoopy-shaped contour and underwater biosphere has gained recognition as one of the most favorable snorkelling and marine exploration destinations in the world.
Shark Island is mostly undeveloped, unlike many other attractions in the UAE that depend on infrastructure and artificial development. It is attractive in its raw nature: clean waters, coral reefs, marine life, and an aspect of escapism that seems to be very distant from the city lifestyle. The guide provides an experience-based, in-depth overview of Shark Island Khorfakkan; in terms of location, biodiversity, activities, seasons, safety, and sustainable tourism, the guide is far more detailed than the average travel story.
Where Is Shark Island, Khorfakkan Located?
Shark Island is located a few kilometers away on the east coast of Khorfakkan Beach in the UAE. Khorfakkan is administratively connected to Sharjah, but geographically, it is enclosed in the Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman.
This eastern location is paramount. The Gulf of Oman has direct access to the Indian Ocean and, as a result, nutrient-saturated currents, which help sustain healthier coral systems and a broader marine life variety than in the Arabian Gulf.
The territory of this island is not a sandy island, but it is a rocky formation. The island has no beaches, buildings, or facilities, and all that the visitors see occurs in the waters around the island.
Why It’s Called Snoopy Island
Though officially it is called Shark Island, the vast majority of tourists are aware of it as Snoopy Island. The outline of the island, when seen along the shore, is very much like that of the cartoon image of Snoopy as he lies on his back with his nose turned upward to the sky. Such an exclusive figure has made the island easily recognisable and highly photographed.
The title of the story Shark Island does not imply danger. Shark sightings are infrequent and normally include small reef sharks that are non-aggressive and do not want to interact with human beings.
Marine Life and Underwater Ecosystem
The only thing that makes Shark Island so special is what is submerged below. One of the richest reef ecosystems in the UAE is found in the waters around the island, and thus it is a magnificent snorkelling and diving destination.
Coral Reefs and Habitat Structure
The surrounding waters of the island consist of a combination of rocky outcrops, coral heads, and sand. The structures provide natural habitats and feeding areas for the marine species. There are hard and soft corals, and these create a colourful landscape underwater, which varies slightly with the light of the day.
The visibility of water usually goes between 5 and 20 metres, depending on seasonal and sea conditions.
Common Marine Species You Can Expect to See
Tourists often get exposed to a great variety of sea animals, all within a few metres of the water.
Regular sightings include:
- Parrotfish, angelfish, and butterflyfish
- Sergeant majors and damsels
- Moray eels are hiding among the rocks.s
- Stingrays riding on sandy waters
- Cuttlefish and reef squid
One of the most thrilling experiences is a visit to sea turtles, which are frequently encountered, especially in fair weather.
Marine Insight Box: Are There Really Sharks?
Although the name suggests it, Shark Island is not a hot spot of sharks. In very few instances, snorkellers can see small black-tip reef sharks. These are non-territorial, non-shy sharks that are not dangerous to swimmers. Their existence is, in fact, an indicator of a good reef ecosystem.
Activities at Shark Island,d Khorfakkan
Shark Island aims at a large number of outdoor fans. You can enjoy it by swimming in the shallow waters or engaging in a few underwater tours; the island has several options that allow you to enjoy the surroundings.
Snorkelling: The Main Attraction
Snorkelling is the most popular on Shark Island and with reason. The reef starts near the shore, enabling even new entrants to view aquatic life without the need to go deep into the water.
The mornings are also considered to be the ideal time to go snorkeling. The sea is often smoother, the visibility is clearer, and the marine organisms are more active.
Scuba Diving Opportunities
To certified divers, Shark Island has shallow and middle depth dives, which are good for beginner and intermediate levels. The depths are usually between 5 and 15 metres, and these provide the ability to spend long bottom time and explore at ease.
Diving in this area is not as dramatic in terms of drop-offs but rather more reef-oriented, with macro life as well as relaxed and in-control conditions.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
The tour of the island by kayak offers a totally different view. On the surface, visitors can find it easy to enjoy the grandeur, form, and rugged rock features of the Island and frequently see fish swimming under their boats.
This is mostly enjoyed by the families and the visitors who choose not to snorkel.
Best Time of Year to Visit Shark Island
Though Shark Island can be accessed throughout the whole year, the conditions change with the seasons.
| Season | Sea Conditions | Water Visibility | Overall Experience |
| October – April | Calm and mild | High | Ideal for snorkelling and diving |
| May – September | Warmer, sometimes choppy | Moderate | Best for early mornings |
The winter months offer low temperatures and calm seas, hence they are the most preferred by visitors. It is possible to visit it in summer, but closer attention should be paid to the weather and water conditions.
Safety Considerations for Visitors
Shark Island is a natural site and not a controlled tourist attraction. It is a personal responsibility of visitors to take care.
Key points to keep in mind:
- Snorkelling fins and a buoyancy aid are also recommended in case you are inexperienced.
- Keep off the corals or sea animals.
- Pay attention to the boat traffic on the island.
- Examine the weather and conditions, and then proceed to the water.
Strong swimmers can go to the island by swimming; however, the best solution for most people is through kayaking or guided tours.
Responsible Tourism and Conservation
Responsible tourism is necessary because of the rising popularity of Shark Island. The coral ecosystem is fragile and does not recover quickly.
Visitors are encouraged to:
- Use reef-safe sunscreen
- Coral should not be stood on or touched.
- Never feed marine life.
- Take all waste back to shore.
By preserving the island, one is able to provide future visitors with the same lively marine environment.
Why Shark Island Khorfakkan Stands Out
Shark Island is not a simple tourist site on the beach; it is the purest example of the natural marine heritage of the UAE. This is due to its accessibility, biodiversity, and visual charm that would be easily accessible to beginners as well as demanding to experienced snorkellers and divers.
Shark Island is a true nature experience as opposed to the commercialised and heavily tourist destinations. It has no ticket stands, no artificial reefs, no entertainment buildings, but only crystal water and living corals and the silent beat of the sea.
Final Thoughts
The Snoopy Island Khorfakkan is the best of the east coast of the UAE. Whether it is the abundance of marine life and easy snorkelling conditions, or its recognisable form and undiscovered nature, it is both accessible and truly unique.
Shark Island is a destination that has always been one of the most satisfying for travellers who wish to engage more than just snap a photo in the region; they want to experience the natural world around them.
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