Al Rafisah Dam is one of the lovely spots in Sharjah’s Hajar Mountains. It is great for people who like nature, fun activities, and families. The dam has a quiet lake and a view of the mountains it gives. It is also an ideal place to escape city life. When the visitors come, they will do some of the things here. They will ride on a small boat on the lake. They will roam the paths that go through the forest. They will also get to enjoy themselves outdoors with their family or friends. Rafisah Dam is a place that can be both a quiet time and a place that is full of exciting activities for everybody.
Quick Facts About Al Rafisah Dam
| Attribute | Details |
| Official Name | Al Rafisah Dam |
| Location | Wadi Shie, Sharjah, UAE |
| Coordinates | 25°21′0″ N, 56°18′0″ E (25.35000° N, 56.30000° E). |
| Elevation | 197 meters (649 feet) |
| Built | 1980s |
| Rest Area Size | 10,684 sqm |
| Entry Fee | Free |
| Opening Hours | Opening Hours: Daily 9:30 AM – 9:30 PM. |
| Visitor Parking | Available at both ends and the central area |
Introduction
Wadi Rafisah Dam is a charming place in Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. This dam surrounding environment is very peaceful and beautiful. In this regard, the people themselves built the dam that was professional in the 1980s. It was intended to stop floods and save water for those who live near the dam. Today, it has become a place of social activity where many people frequent.
Additionally, the dam is surrounded by peaceful water, while the mountains are in the background. This renders it an admirable look. There are multiple activities on this dam. Individuals can participate in water sports, dine outdoors, or move about walkways in a natural setting. We can say with confidence that Rafisah Dam is good for everybody.
Since the dam is located in the mountains, it is naturally free from the heat problem and stays cool throughout the summer. It is a calm place to be able to escape the heat.
Al Rafisah Dam Location & How to Get There
Rafisah Dam is easy to find just outside Ra’s al-Khaymah city. It is just a little further away from the city of Sharjah. Drivers can reach there within a time of 45 minutes. Now, they can use the Sharjah-Khorfakkan highway (S142) road to reach their destination. The road has a couple of tunnels running through the mountain range. The sight of the big Hajar Mountains yonder is all but pleasing to the eyes.
Map users have the necessary information through the number, ie, 25°21′0″ N, 56°18′0″ E (25.35000° N, 56.30000° E). There are many locations for parking cars at the dam. The parking lots are located at both ends of the lake. Besides, there is a park.
Al Rafisah Dam Photos
Things to Do at Rafisah Dam
Kayaking and Pedal Boating
Khorfakkan Dam is the best place for kayaking and pedal boating. You can easily kayak and pedal boat here on the quiet water. The rental for a small kayak for 30 minutes is 30 AED. The rental price for a pedal boat for 30 minutes is 45 AED. A large toy donut boat (meant to carry up to 6 people) costs 100 AED for 30 minutes.
Hiking and Scenic Trails
This dam is home to several hiking trails, A 730 m lakeside promenade, and the 1.8 km Wadi Shees Nature Trail offers easy, interpretive walks through the falaj‑lined valley, including the Al Rafisah Loop and which is 10 km long and takes around 1 to 1.5 hours to walk. It is also of medium difficulty. There is a Promenade Walkway, a path cut by the side of the lake with a wonderful view of the warmth.
Bird Watching
The dam is a favorite resting place for the birds. You can watch the Little Grebe in this area. Rent a pair of binoculars for 15 AED outdoors to develop your vision; likewise, they have a bonus that you can see birds better with them. The coming of birds is also frequent in cool weather.
Lakeside Waterfalls
There is an artificial waterfall at the dam. The rainy season is the best time to capture the waterfall in a photograph. This is a lovely photo shoot to be done in the area.
Facilities at Rafisah Dam
Rest Area
The primary rest area is big, with an area of 10,684 square meters. It possesses:
- Shaded benches
- Picnic spots
- Clean toilets
- Prayer rooms for men and women
- Many places to sit
Besides, there is a fantastic terrace with a beautiful view of the lake as well as the mountains.
Food Places
Fen Restaurant serves locals as well as visitors food indigenous to Sharjah, as well as continental dishes. Besides, one can enjoy the lake view through its big windows while eating. Also, there is a Sharjah Co-op shop with snacks, drinks, and some local crafts.
Play Areas for Children
Three sets of play areas are organized, catering for various ages as follows:
- Swings and slides for small children
- Climbing frames for older kids
- The statement that no child will get something good to do is true.
Places to Visit Near Rafisah Dam
Rafisah Dam is surely worth visiting. Apart from it, there are also a few other interesting places that you can check out.
Al Hayl Fort
Al Hayl Fort is about 5 km from the dam. It is an old fort on a hill from the 12th century. The fort is well-famed as people are welcome to take tours and see beautiful views down the valley.
Wadi Shees Park
Wadi Shees Park is located near the dam. It has a lot to offer. It agitates trees for shade, small waterfalls, and streams. It is a place for silent cookouts.
Khorfakkan Beach
Khor Fakkan Beach is a 10 km distance reached by traveling south from the dam. This tells you that it has white sand, dining establishments, and water sports. It is the best place to go and relax because one can swim after visiting the dam.
Visiting Information
Opening Times
You can go to the dam every day from 06:00 to 18:00,, it’s open. However, it all depends on the type of year and the schedule. Therefore, it is wiser to call there early and later at night or during the dead times of the year, rather than during the heavy rush. Instead of calling the staff, when you are there, ask for the specific times.
Cost to Enter
You can come for free. However, if you wish to enjoy yourself, for example, kayaking or pedal boating, you will need to be able to pay the fee for the boat. The exciting things you can do with this actually cost over 30 and up to 100 AED.
Car Parking
The passenger parking space is located at the two ends of the lake and near the place for visitors. Free parking for 45 vehicles is immediately adjacent to the rest area. Whether you want to spend a short or a longer one is up to you.
Conclusion
Sharjah’s Rafisah Dam is such a wonderful place. It is a great place for many different types of things. Join in hiking, taking a boat, birdwatching, or just resting in the new rest area at Rafisah Dam. Even though the dam is close to Sharjah city, people can enjoy the different colors of nature.
The dam is silent and besides that, well-equipped. The landscapes are fabulous- simple but beautiful. A visit to the dam is necessary for those exploring the UAE mountains.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Rafisah Dam ticket price?
The Rafisah Dam ticket price is free. You only pay for specific activities like kayaking, pedal boating, or renting binoculars for bird watching.
What are the timings of the Rafisah Dam?
The dam is open from sunrise to sunset, generally from 6 AM to 6 PM. Check locally for exact times, especially during holidays.
How do I get to Rafisah Dam?
Take the Sharjah-Khorfakkan highway (S142) from Sharjah city for about 45 minutes. GPS coordinates are 25°21′0″ N, 56°18′0″ E (25.35000° N, 56.30000° E).
Is there parking at Rafisah Dam?
Yes, there are paid parking lots at both ends of the lake and near the central rest area.
Is there a mosque at Rafisah Dam?
Yes, a mosque is available at the central plaza for prayer.
