Amidst the mountainous enclave of Khor Fakkan, between valley rocks and awe-inspiring cliff faces, is Shees Park — one of the UAE’s most picturesque and family-oriented parks.
Situated in Shees Village, this public park represents a harmonious mix of nature, recreation, and leisure, all of which are within reach of a short drive from Dubai and Sharjah.
Opened late 2020 by the Sharjah Government, Shees Park has been constructed to offer a green, accessible haven into the great outdoors.
Whether you’re seeking to explore mountain paths, picnic near a waterfall, amuse your children, or just breathe fresh mountain air, Shees Park has everything covered for an invigorating day’s outing.
Shees Park Overview Table
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Shees Village, Khor Fakkhan, Emirate of Sharjah |
| Inauguration | October 2020 |
| Developed by | Sharjah Government |
| Total Area | Approx. 11,362 sq. meters |
| Key Features | Waterfall, mountain walkways, BBQ areas, outdoor theatre, playgrounds |
| Entry Fee | Free for all Visitors |
| Opening Hours | 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily |
| Distance from Dubai | 125km (1.5 – 2 hours by car) |
| Parking Fee | On-site parking |
| Public Transport | Not directly available; car or private taxi is advisable |
| Nearby Attractions | Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre, Al Rabi Tower Trail, Shark Island |
Top Things To Do At Shees Park
Shees Park is meant to be an interactive family-friendly atmosphere, and it’s full of activities for every interest and age.
Regardless of whether you’re a nature-loving photographer, a thrill-seeking hiker, or a leisurely nature enthusiast, Shees Park has a little something for everyone.
1. View The Man-Made Waterfall
Standing in the middle of the park is a stunning artificial waterfall constructed into the rockface itself.
Throwing itself downward from a considerable height, it empties into a shallow pool at the bottom and acts as a harbinger of the park’s peaceful atmosphere.
- A great photo and video background
- Ringed by shaded benches
- Ideal location for quiet contemplation and relaxation
- Pro tip: Go there early morning or at sunset for the best photogenic lighting.
2. Walk The High Ridge Serpentines
To get to the summit of Shees Park, visitors enjoy climbing three-tiers high stone pathways along elevated mountain walkways to a panoramic viewpoint.
A dramatic cut through a mountain ridge offers stunning views of Shees Valley, the park, and surrounding peaks.
- Distance along the pathway: 700 meters
- Security is assured by staircases and safety rails
- Multiple rest stops along the way
You don’t have to be a seasoned hiker to hike this track — kids and seniors are welcome provided they’re in reasonably good health. The views from the top are sensational and worth the effort!
3. BBQ Picnic
For groups and families, the park provides several purpose-built BBQ areas, including shaded seating, grill pedestals, and room for gatherings.
- BYO (Bring Your Own) grill and charcoal
- Clean and eco-friendly BBQ spaces
- Trash bins located nearby to maintain cleanliness
The BBQ zones are first-come, first-served, so it’s best to arrive early on weekends and public holidays.
4. Savour Delicious Bites From Food Kiosks
Not in the mood to grill? You’re covered! The park has several seasonal food stalls and snack kiosks offering refreshments, snacks, and hot meals.
- Arabic tea and karak stalls
- Popcorn, ice cream, and juices
- Light snacks such as sandwiches and shawarmas
Although Shees Park is not yet the home of a full restaurant, light snacking or picnic supplementing is well served by what is currently on offer.
5. Allow The Young Ones To Enjoy The Play Area
Kids have their own exclusive adventure playground, equipped with new, brightly colored play apparatus that harmonizes fun with safety.
- Swings, slides, monkey bars, climbing frames
- Soft padded floor for safety
- Seating close by for parents and guardians
This space is also shaded and is close to the BBQ areas, making it convenient for families to keep an eye on their kids while cooking or unwinding.
6. Discover The Park’s Verdant Trails And Gardens
Although situated in a rocky mountain setting, Shees Park is full of greenery, palm trees, flowers, and well-manicured gardens. Take a walk or sit in one of the shaded areas to absorb nature.
- Paved and accessible walkways
- Shaded rest areas with benches
- Nicely kept gardens
The local landscape has been preserved carefully by the developers, employing native vegetation and environmentally friendly design practices to maintain the health of the park in the long term.
7. Watch A Show At The Outdoor Theatre
The outdoor amphitheater is among the park’s best-kept secrets. It might appear to be a serene architectural element by day, but it is actually meant for live shows, public events, and family outings on weekend or holiday afternoons.
- Half-moon seating made of stone
- Ideal location for cultural presentations, music, or movie screenings
- Refer to local tourist information boards for event calendars
Even without a show, the amphitheatre is a great spot to sit back, read a book, or just enjoy the mountain breeze.
Things To Remember Before You Go
For a hassle-free and enjoyable visit, here are some important things to remember:
What Are The Shees Park Timings?
- Daily opening: 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Last entry: Generally around 9:30 PM
- Best time to visit: Early morning and late afternoon
On weekends and during public holidays, the park becomes crowded — so do arrive early.
Tickets & Entry Price
- It is FREE to enter.
- No advance booking or tickets at all.
- Parking is free too and usually ample.
This keeps Shees Park as one of the UAE’s most affordable attractions.
Timings – When To Visit
- Morning (8 AM – 11 AM): Best for hikers and photographers.
- Evening (4 PM – 6:30 PM): Ideal for families, picnics, and sunsets.
- Midday in summer because of direct sunlight and extreme heat.
Ideal Time And Climate
- October to March is the ideal time to visit Shees Park. The climate remains comfortable, with average temperatures between 18°C and 28°C, which is perfect for outdoor strolls and BBQs.
- Spring (March–April): Wildflowers in bloom, ideal for nature shots.
- Summer (June–August): Steer clear of it unless you go early morning or after sunset.
How Do I travel From Dubai To Shees Park?
- Take E611 or E102 towards Fujairah/Khor Fakkan
- Exit at Shees Village (watch out for signs near Khor Fakkan)
- Distance: 125 km
- Travel Time: 1.5 to 2 hours by car
Important: There is no direct public transport to Shees Park. You will have to drive yourself or hire a private taxi or ride-sharing service.
Is There Food in Shees Park?
Yes. Although there are no restaurant chains within the park, there are a few snack vendors and roaming sellers providing light bites. For something more substantial:
- Khor Fakkan town is 10–15 minutes away and has restaurants, supermarkets, and fast food
- Take your own food if you are staying for a BBQ or picnic
Other Attractions to Visit Nearby
After you’ve finished visiting Shees Park, you can visit these surrounding places:
- Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre – A stunning Roman-style theatre overlooking the beach
- Shark Island – A diving and snorkeling destination just offshore
- Al Rabi Tower Trail – A moderate trail with sea views
- Khor Fakkan Corniche – Good for evening walks and beachside eating
Why You Should Visit Shees Park?
Shees Park is not a park, however — it’s a natural sanctuary, recreational center, and cultural retreat all in one.
Nestled between Sharjah’s dramatic mountains and constructed with eco-friendliness in mind, it is an oasis where you can:
- Climb up elevated walkways
- Relax by a peaceful waterfall
- Host a family BBQ
- Let the kids run wild in secure, green areas
With no fee to enter, plenty of activities, and stunning views, Shees Park is one of the UAE’s hidden gems.
Whether you’re organizing a road trip, a weekend escape, or a daring side trip from Dubai or Sharjah, Shees Park guarantees a fun-filled day of nature and relaxation.
