Fujairah firmed its ambitions as a global hub for adventure tourism with the launch of the Fujairah International Conference of Adventure Tourism from April 30 to May 2, 2025, in what is a first-of-its-kind event in the UAE.
Organised by the Fujairah Adventures Center in collaboration with the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), the conference took place under the patronage of Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah. For three days, industry leaders, policymakers and enthusiasts gathered to explore Fujairah’s untapped potential, leveraging its dramatic landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and strategic location. Amr Zein Eddine, Director of Fujairah Adventures Center, hailed the event as a "strategic milestone" in the emirate’s tourism sector. Talking to TTN, Zein Eddine expanded how Fujairah aims to enhance its adventure tourism credentials, “Fujairah Adventures Center, launched in 2017 following the directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad Al Sharqi, the Crown Prince of Fujairah, is the official regulator for outdoor recreation and adventure tourism in Fujairah. The Center offers a wide range of activities through certified tour operators and certified guides, including guided hikes, mountain biking, rock climbing, kayaking and nature-based exploration. For families, we provide safe and fun experiences like kids climbing zones, educational nature walks, and outdoor training programs that encourage environmental awareness and physical activity in a safe and supervised environment.” Key projects for Fujairah Adventures Center include the development of certified hiking and mountain biking trails, the expansion of the Fujairah Adventure Park, and the launch of a training centre that certifies local guides and outdoor professionals, Zein Eddine tells us. “Additionally, we are introducing geo-tourism experiences and establishing partnerships with international adventure tourism organisations to raise standards and ensure long-term sustainability in the sector.” Fujairah has a diverse landscape ideal for hiking, biking, climbing and water activities. The emirate is well known for its rugged mountains and pristine wadis. Zein Eddine says, “Our aim is to transform Fujairah into a fully integrated adventure tourism destination with upgraded infrastructure, eco-lodges, specialized trails, and year-round programming that attracts regional and international travellers in the next three to five years.” The recently concluded Fujairah International Conference of Adventure Tourism featured keynote addresses, expert panels and interactive sessions, covering investment opportunities, global safety standards, sustainable tourism practices, and the role of youth and innovation in shaping the future of adventure tourism for some 250 local and international attendees.