Kalba - Sharjah
HIGHLIGHTS
ABOUT KALBA
Located on the eastern coast of the UAE, Kalba shares its northern border with Fujairah. It is an exclave of Sharjah emirate and offers a plethora of amenities along with diverse property options.
Although the city is renowned for ecotourism, it also boasts several water-based activities and chances to delve into its historical roots. Running through the city is the E99 highway or Rugaylat Road, which intersects with other streets including Corniche Street.
It takes approximately 75 minutes to travel from Sharjah to the city via Sharjah – Kalba Road (E102). The city is linked to Fujairah by Rugaylat Road (E99) and also shares a beach strip with it.
IN A NUTSHELL
NEIGHBOURHOOD
COMMUNITY OVERVIEW
Located on the eastern coast of the UAE, Kalba is an exclave that belongs to the emirate of Sharjah. In the 16th century, it was called Ghallah and was conquered by the Portuguese empire. Later on in 1811, Muscat’s Sultan's forces sacked the city. From 1936 to 1951, it was a Trucial State and borders Oman towards its southern side.
forests and natural reserves, which attract visitors who are interested in eco-tourism. While the city primarily consists of villas, there are also some apartment buildings available. Positioned on the eastern coast, it's conveniently located near the Gulf of Oman. The various communities within the city each offer their own amenities such as parks, schools, and recreational spaces. SEWA is responsible for providing utilities to all properties in the area. Shurooq is currently working to develop Kalba at a faster rate with hopes of attracting more tourists to visit this beautiful destination known for its mangrove forests and natural reserves that have become a popular draw for eco-tourists.
There are reserves and cultural sites located towards the western side.
PROPERTIES IN KALBA
Kalba UAE has a variety of properties including villas and apartment buildings, with 1-bedroom units available up to 950 sq. ft. for an annual cost of around AED 21K. The city also provides land options for mixed-use purposes, including conversion into residential, commercial or retail properties. For example, land measuring approximately 8,826 sq. ft can be rented at an annual rate of AED 35K.
HOTELS NEAR KALBA
The only lodging situated in Kalba is the Kalba Kingfisher Lodge, which is a 5-star safari-style camp that stands out as one of Sharjah's top hotels. The resort, also referred to as Mysk Kingfisher Retreat, provides accommodations ranging from one- to three-bedroom tents and includes conveniences like a garden, exclusive beach location, restaurant services and other typical hotel features.
Additional lodging options around Kalba can be discovered in Fujairah City, including:
All of these lodgings in Fujairah are accessible by car within a 20-minute range.
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING IN KALBA
The villas provide private garages for up to two vehicles, while visitors may take advantage of the ample street parking throughout the city. Additionally, parking lots are conveniently located on nearly every block in the area.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION NEAR AL KALBA
Regarding transportation in and around Kalba, taxis and buses are the primary choices. However, a large portion of the locals opt to use their personal automobiles for their daily travel needs.
Various buses provide intercity transportation, such as the Dibba Al Fujairah – Kalba bus, Sharjah – Kalba bus, and Route E99. If you want to hop on the E116 bus, it's available from the Al Agoula Al Khan Mosque Bus Stop situated along the E99 highway. You can also find other nearby stations in Fujairah city which are just a 20-minute drive away that cater to Route E700 with stops like Choithrams Supermarket Bus Stop, Ministry of Labour Bus Stop, Ajman University Bus Stop and Fujairah Bus Station.
AMENITIES, SCHOOLS AND HEALTHCARE
SUPERMARKETS IN KALBA
The city boasts a plethora of convenience stores, baqalas, and supermarkets. Among these shopping options in Kalba are:
The Sharjah Cooperative Society is a top-rated supermarket with several locations throughout the emirate. Additionally, there's the Al Safeer Centre which is classified as a hypermarket and ADNOC Oasis, a group of convenience stores across the UAE.
In order to buy goods from global supermarket chains like Carrefour, you can visit Fujairah City and locate Carrefour Hypermarkets situated within the shopping centers.
MOSQUES IN KALBA
Muslims in Kalba have the opportunity to attend daily prayers and seek spiritual solace at a variety of mosques. The city boasts multiple mosques in each neighborhood, providing ample options for the Muslim community. Several examples include:
OTHER PLACES OF WORSHIP NEAR KALBA
Christian individuals could travel for approximately 20 to 25 minutes towards Fujairah city and locate nearby churches close to Kalba.
Hindus and Sikhs will need to travel for over 100 minutes in order to arrive at the Bur Dubai temples and Guru Nanak Darbar. The three temples located in Bur Dubai are tailored towards various Hindu sub-groups. Meanwhile, Guru Nanak Darbar stands as the most sizable Gurudwara within the Gulf area.
SCHOOLS IN AL KALBA
Kalba boasts several schools that adhere to the MOE curriculum, both government-run and public. Additionally, there are private schools in the area such as:
The American Private School of Kalba provides education based on the American Common Core Curriculum and has been in operation since 2018. The school is accredited by the American International Accreditation Association (AiAA) and caters to students up to Grade 12.
The Kalba-based English Private School provides education for students from the Foundation Stage to Year 12, following the British curriculum with guidance from the Ministry of Education. Additionally, there is a Sharjah University branch located in Kalba.
Established in 1997 by His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qassimi, this non-profit university located in the UAE provides opportunities for education across various fields, ranging from engineering to fine arts. Students can pursue degrees in medicine, humanities, social sciences, health sciences, computer science and IT.
CLINICS AND HOSPITALS IN KALBA
Kalba residents have the option to access medical services at various clinics and hospitals within the area.
The government-run Kalba Hospital in Sharjah is renowned and spans across 14,500 square metres on two levels. In addition to its 85 beds, the hospital also boasts a helipad for air medical services. Meanwhile, Thumbay Clinic is another top-notch healthcare facility in Sharjah with three branches throughout the emirate that offer advanced medical care along with lab facilities.
NEARBY AREAS
There are several regions in close proximity to Kalba, such as:
Fujairah lies directly on the northern border of Kalba, with their borders connecting particularly near the beach area. It serves as the capital city of the emirate of Fujairah and is widely recognized for its diverse range of attractions including resorts and the famed Fujairah Port.
Located just a short drive north of Fujairah city is Sakamkam, an area renowned for its archaeological discoveries. The settlement, situated in the Wadi region, sits at an elevation of 433 feet above sea level and is home to Fujairah's notable Sakamkam Fort.
Al Hayl is a historical village situated in the western outskirts of Fujairah city. The most notable landmark in this location is the Al Hayl Castle, constructed approximately in 1830 and featuring a defensive fort named Al Hayl Fort. Currently, there are plans to develop the area through a billion dirham construction venture that will offer modern amenities such as 1,100 apartments and houses for residents.
Wahlah, located in the emirate of Fujairah, is home to the Awhala Fort, which is also referred to as Wahlah Fort. The village can be reached by driving southeast from Kalba for about 20 minutes.
LIFESTYLE
SHOPPING, DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
MALLS NEAR KALBA
The recently opened Kalba Mall is the sole shopping center in the city, occupying a total built-up area of 22,804 sq. m. It comprises a range of facilities including 38 shops and ten kiosks, as well as ample parking for up to 318 vehicles. Additionally, visitors can enjoy the sports club, cinema and entertainment area incorporated within its premises.
Additional shopping centers situated in Fujairah, a neighboring city of Kalba, are available.
All of the malls in Fujairah can be accessed by car within 20 minutes. The mall known as Fujairah Mall covers a vast area of 35,000 square meters and includes 81 shops along with various choices for dining and entertainment.
The sprawling Century Mall spans across 78,063 sq. m on two floors and boasts a plethora of facilities. With 130 shops housed within its walls, visitors can also enjoy an 8-screen cinema, a Carrefour Hypermarket and ample parking space for up to 1000 cars.
City Centre Fujairah boasts over 150 shopping outlets spread across a vast expanse of 34,000 square meters. Among its offerings are a Carrefour Hypermarket, a food court and branches of both Magic Planet and VOX Cinemas.
RESTAURANTS IN KALBA
Kalba has a variety of dining options dispersed throughout its districts and neighboring the E99 highway. Among these establishments are:
If you are looking for high-end dining options in Fujairah city, Belle View and Asmak can be found within a 20-minute drive. These two restaurants are classified as fine dining establishments that also offer full bar services. Belle View is situated in Concorde Hotel and specializes in International cuisine while Asmak, which is located at Al Diar Siji Hotel, predominantly serves Lebanese dishes alongside other Middle Eastern delicacies.
BEACHES IN KALBA
En: The city boasts a corniche area and is home to Kalba Beach, which spans seven kilometers and is located near the Khor Kalba Conservation Reserve. This stretch of beach between Fujairah and Kalba is highly popular among surfers, ranking as one of the UAE's top surfing locations. If you're willing to drive at least 20 minutes, you can also visit the beaches in Fujairah.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES AND NOTABLE LANDMARKS
Distinguished points of interest within Kalba consist of:
The Birds of Prey Centre in Kalba is home to numerous varieties of enormous raptor birds. It was established in 2014 and provides interactive shows and informative excursions for kids.
Bait Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi is a well-known museum in Sharjah, featuring various displays of pottery, artefacts, and 19th-century pictures. As such, it has become one of the emirate's distinguished heritage sites.
The edifice currently functioning as a museum, previously served as the abode of Sheikh Saeed Bin Hamad Al Qasimi during his tenure as the Wali of Kalba in the 19th century. It was transformed into a museum in 1999 and has become an integral part of the cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates.
The fortress known as Al Ghayl Fort is situated atop a hill in Kalba Bird of Prey Centre and has roots dating back to the 19th century. Among its features are various weapons and equipment formerly utilized by soldiers in the UAE. Additionally, there is a watchtower present along with a guardroom, toilet, and two basement rooms available within the fort's confines. It also serves as an admired observation deck for many visitors.
The Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre, spanning 12 sq. km in Khor Kalba and managed by Sharjah Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq), features a diverse range of wildlife species from the desert and local mountains. This popular tourist spot is often included on the to-do list for those visiting Fujairah. Meanwhile, the Al Qurm Nature Reserve situated in Khor Kalba covers over 500 hectares of safeguarded mangroves that provide sanctuary to several rare bird species, sea turtles, and mammals alike.
Kalba boasts an ample amount of parks and outdoor areas, allowing for frequent opportunities to revitalize oneself. Among the top-rated parks in Kalba are:
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, FITNESS AND BEAUTY
The Kalba Corniche Park is situated in the corniche district of the city, also referred to as Khor Kalba or Kalba Creek. It spans across 67,280 sq. m., and offers shaded areas along with a jogging and walking track. The park further boasts several restaurants and cafes for visitors to satisfy their hunger cravings. Additionally, nearby lies the appealing destination of Kalba Beach, providing an excursion option for those interested.
The built-up area of Mafraq Park is 9,371 sq. m. and it provides various recreational facilities including a football ground. Additionally, there is a running track at the park that is 3 metres wide and spans across 523 metres. A small neighborhood park known as Al Sidra Park also exists.
As an integral part of the Kalba Ecotourism Project and Al Hafiya Nature Reserve, Al Hafiya Picnic Park features amenities such as children's play areas, ticketing facilities, prayer rooms for both genders, barbecue spots, snack vendors and beverage stalls. Additionally, visitors can observe protected wildlife from a viewing platform within the park.
Due to its climate, Kalba has become a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy kayaking through the mangroves and lagoons.
When it comes to outdoor recreation, Wadi Al Helo has become a beloved spot for hiking in the city and considered one of the finest hikes available in UAE. You may choose to partake in a guided tour with your kids, allowing you to relish panoramic views at the hilltops. The hike also allows sightings of local wildlife, including Arabian Oryx. Notably, Wadi Al Helo is among the premier archaeological sites visited within UAE.
In Fujairah City, the fitness enthusiasts have two excellent options to choose from for their workout needs. Al Amalqah Gym and Fit Nation are both available, with the latter being a women-only health club that offers an assortment of strength-training programs exclusively for females. As a result, it is popular among ladies not only in Fujairah City but also from other locations. Therefore, Fit Nation secures its position as one of the best gyms in Fujairah.
The Sharjah Government holds various events to keep its residents engaged all year round. One such event is the Kalba Arabian Horse Festival, which takes place on Kalba Corniche and is organized by the Sharjah Equestrian & Racing Club.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Every year, the University of Sharjah hosts the Sharjah Light Festival, which is an art festival aimed at showcasing the emirate's architectural achievements and cultural legacy.
By checking out the website of Kalba Art Centre, you can take part in its various workshops and seminars. The Kalba Youth Centre or Kalba Youth Sports Complex arranges multiple events that focus on science and technology, literature and languages, entrepreneurship, arts, and sports.
The Sharjah Government has suggested constructing Jabal Al Kitab in the city at an elevation of 950 metres above sea level. The development will be accessible through the Sharjah-Kalba Road and Wadi Al Helo tunnel, linking five mountain peaks with 1,000 villas available after construction. Furthermore, facilities such as a mosque, service buildings, restaurants, and an 80-suite five-star hotel are expected to be established within Jabal Kitab itself.
UPCOMING ATTRACTIONS
The Kalba Ecotourism Project, the largest of its kind in the UAE, has been launched by Shurooq. Part of this project is the Kalba Waterfront Project which will be another top waterfront property in Sharjah. The 5-star Kingfisher Lodge, Birds of Prey Centre and Al Hafiya Park have already been completed while eateries, markets, retail outlets, an amphitheatre and waterfront promenades are currently being developed. Eagle Hills Sharjah is responsible for developing this project.
The Kalba Corniche is in the process of being upgraded and will offer a range of facilities including pedestrian paths, beaches, jogging tracks, parking spaces, retail outlets and restaurants. The purpose of this renovation is to attract more visitors to the city.
For those who desire to reside near the eastern shoreline and in a sustainable setting, Kalba is an ideal option. The city is well-distributed with no overcrowding while providing various eco-tourism activities, outdoor recreational sports, aquatic sport options, and abundant living accommodations.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
It's important to note that Emirati citizens dominate the city and housing options for expatriates are limited. Additionally, there aren't many urban conveniences, such as shopping malls or indoor entertainment, in the area. These factors should be taken into consideration when deciding to relocate.
Situated on the eastern shores of the UAE, Kalba is in close proximity to Fujairah city.
FAQS ABOUT KALBA
FAQs
Where is Kalba in UAE?
Kalba is renowned for its ecological tourism and provides various aquatic activities in addition to chances to enjoy picnicking and sightseeing. You can drop by the Kalba Bird of Prey Centre, examine historical locations like Bait Sheikh Saeed bin Hamed Al Qassimi museum and the Al Ghayl Fort or opt for kayaking at the Kalba Conservation Reserve.
What to do in Kalba UAE?
The urban area provides an impressive range of seaside spots in addition to excursions through the desert, treks on foot, and opportunities for underwater exploration such as scuba diving and snorkelling.
The Kalba Corniche Park has a gate, but if you're interested in fishing, the nearby Kalba Beach is a good alternative. It's located right next to the park.
Can you fish at Kalba Corniche Park?
Dubai and Kalba are around 1.25 hours away from each other by a comfortable car ride.
How many hours from Kalba to Dubai?
Dubai and Kalba are approximately 1.25 hours apart from each other by a smooth drive.