Teach Middle East Magazine Issue 2 Volume 2 Nov-Dec 2014 | Page 44

FUJAIRAH HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamed Al Sharqi, Founding Father of the UAE and former Ruler of Fujairah. HH Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Member of Supreme Council and Ruler of Fujairah. Founding Father: HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamed Al Sharqi (1942 – 1974) Current Ruler: HH Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi (1974 – present) Important Landmark: Al Bidyah Mosque Key Industries: Tourism, Agriculture & Shipping Port T he Emirate of Fujairah derives its name from a spring of water located beneath one of the mountains. It is the 5th largest emirate. Unlike other emirates, Fujairah is almost completely mountainous and is the only emirate that lies along the eastern side of the UAE, along the Gulf of Oman. It has the highest amount of rainfall in the UAE. Its strategic location provides easy access to international shipping routes which has played a key role in its development as one of the world’s top oil-bunkering ports. Education is a top priority in securing sustained prosperity and building the future of Fujairah. The emirate of Fujairah offers a superior learning environment with an excellent range of schools and leading academic institutions and vocational training facilities. Education options include child education to career development, which are provided through a variety of educational facilities throughout the emirate. The historical importance of Fujairah dates back to the period before the birth of Christ. It was known in the old ages ! ‫شكـــرًا‬ Thank You! Special thanks to HE Dr Abdulla Al Reyes, Dr Greg Iverson and the team at the National Archives, Maitha Ahmed at Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, Nesma Ahmed at Sharjah Media, Shamma Musabeh Al Jattal at Sharjah Museums and to all the Emiratis who participated in our National Day Vox Pop. Special thanks also to Bob Cowan for your patience and guidance. Thank you to our sources listed throughout the feature without whom a lot of the information provided here would not have been possible. 42 Nov - Dec 2014 Special Feature as the land of sea giants. Fujairah is home to the oldest mosque in the UAE, Al Bidyah Mosque. The main cities and villages in Fujairah ar e Dibba, Murbeh, Qidfa, Al Bidiyah, Masafi and Al-Siji. Fujairah is a land endowed with remarkable beauty. Its beautiful beaches are a key attraction for tourists, sports and water-sports enthusiasts from all over the world. Fujairah is known as the jewel of the Middle East. Source: Goverment of Fujairah (Photo Credit: National Archives, UAE)