A perfect spot for a road trip destination and a fun day out. The Al Rafisah Dam appears out of the mountains on the road to Khorfakkan, over the crest of a hill and is a picturesque site, offering beautiful views as well as opportunities for a range of activities, from kayaking to hiking to learning more of the historical and archaeological terrain of the region. A man made waterfall and lush greenery make for a tranquil outdoor experience while hiking trails lead you around the lake, families with young children will enjoy the play areas and family facilities. Those looking to relax will find a restaurant with a panoramic outlook and seating areas dotted around the destination.
Enjoy the many activities to be found at and around Al Rafisah Dam where fresh, nature air and history surrounds you. Kayak around the lake or hike through the mountain range, bird watch for the numerous feathered species that stop by the water or learn more about the heritage treasures of the region.
Whether travelling solo or with the family, plan your visit with our handy information section that includes all the details needed to curate a wonderful day out for all ages at Al Rafisah.
Time to Refuel
The Rafisah Lounge by Shahrzad Palace Iranian Restaurant
offers grills, soups, salads and juices to be enjoyed with amazing views over the reservoir.
Opening Hours:
Daily 8 AM to 10 PM,
Tel: 050 978 7272
Specialty Ice Cream
Alsad Ice Cream
serves a range of snacks, and coffee, and is well known for its great ice cream flavours, the perfect spot to refuel during your day at the dam. Opening Hours:
Daily 9:30 AM to 9:30 PM,
Tel: 054 721 1258
Mini mart
A branch of the Sharjah Coop
stocks water, crisps and sundries to snack on, supplement your picnic or for the drive.
Opening Hours:
Daily 07:00 AM to 12:00 AM,
Tel: 600548884
Mosque
Mosque
Male / female
Toilets
Toilets
Male / female and disabled access
Parking
Parking
Around 45 parking spots are available in the main parking area. There is dedicated parking for hikers at the start of the hiking trail.
The Perfect Spot for your Shot.
From the majestic mountains to the gushing waterfall to the stunning reservoir, Al Rafisah Dam is full of beautiful spots to record your visit and preserve memories of the day.
Stunning views from the lake
Magical nature spots while hiking
Breathtaking scenes from the dam
Memorable moments at Al Rafisah Dam
Make the most of your visit
The east coast of Sharjah is home to an extensive list of beautiful and unique places to see and experience with something for everyone. Make the most of your visit by adding one or more of these nearby destinations to your itinerary.
Najd Al Maqsar Village
Ancient fortress and village settlement for a glimpse into the historical past o...
Keep the whole family busy with an outing to Al Rafisah Dam, with fun outdoor activities and beautiful natural surroundings to enjoy, the family will be asking to return again and again. Moreover, Al Rafisah Dam is an ideal spot for hikers whether beginners or experienced, with a range of trails and rest stops plus amazing views.
1 Day Hiking Trip between Al Rafisah Dam and Al Suhub Rest House
#AlRafisahDam photography on the way to the trail
1 hr – 1 hr 30 min hiking from Al Rafisah Dam to Al Suhub Rest House
1 hr 30 min photography plus meal to recharge at Fen Restaurant Al Suhub Rest House
1 hr – 1 hr 30 min hiking back to Al Rafisah Dam
30 min rest and ice cream/dessert/coffee at the ice cream shop / restaurant
1 hr to relax and kayak around the dam using the Al Khor Kayak facilities, enjoying the beautiful views.
30 min climb to the castle
1 hr meal at the restaurant
#AlRafisahDam photography on the way to the parking
Tour Length
1 day
Type
Hiking
Ideal for
Solo / Groups
2 Day Hiking Trip at Al Rafisah Dam and Al Rabi Tower
Day 1: Al Rafisah Dam hiking trail
#AlRaisahDam photography on the way to the trail
1 hr – 1 hr 30 min hiking from Al Rafisah Dam to Al Suhub Rest House
1 hr 30 min photography plus meal to recharge at Fen Restaurant Al Suhub Rest House
1 hr – 1 hr 30 min hiking back to Al Rafisah Dam
30 min recharge and have ice cream/dessert/coffee at ice cream shop/ restaurant
1 hr to relax and kayak around the dam using the Al Khor Kayak facilities, enjoying the beautiful views.
30 min climb to the castle
1 hr meal at the restaurant
#AlRaisahDam photography on the way to the parking
Head to the Oceanic hotel or Al Marsa Hotel Apartments to check in and rest
Dinner at the hotel restaurant or Khorfakkan beach restaurants/cafes
Day 2: Al Rabi Tower and Hiking Trail
Breakfast at the hotel of one of the many options in town
Head to Al Rabi Tower and Hiking Trail parking, make sure to get some photos of the tower
2-3 hrs hiking, including rest, enjoying the stunning views and photography time
1 hr 30 min shopping and meal at Souq Sharq traditional restaurant
Head to the hotel to change/rest
1-2 hrs beach/swimming time at the hotel if staying at the Oceanic hotel or enjoy the public beach of Korfakkan
1 hr – 2 hr recharge and have ice cream/dessert/coffee at Khorfakkan beach restaurants/cafes
Head back to the hotel / home
Tour Length
2 days
Type
Hiking
Ideal for
Solo / Groups
Half a Day at Al Rafisah Dam for Families
1 hr arrive at Al Rafaisah dam and breakfast at the restaurant
1 hr kayak around the dam, using the Al Khor Kayak facilities
30 mins in the children’s play area
30 min recharge and have ice cream / dessert / coffee at ice cream shop / restaurant
15 min #AlRafisahDam photography
Tour Length
3-4 hrs
Type
Trip
Ideal for
Families
1 Day at Wadi Shees and Al Rafisah Dam for Families
1 – 1:30 mins stop at Wadi Shees for beautiful mountain views and walk around the park.
Arrive at Al Rafisah Dam, 1 hr breakfast at the restaurant
1 hr for a kayak around the dam, using the Al Khor Kayak facilities
30 mins in the children’s play area
30 min recharge and have ice cream / dessert / coffee at ice cream shop / restaurant
15 min #AlRafisahDam photography
Drive down into Khorfakkan and view the Khorfakkan Waterfall and Amphitheatre
1- 2 hrs head to the beach to paddle / snorkel / swim
1 hr 30 min enjoy a wander around Souq Sharq, shopping and meal at the traditional restaurant at Souq Sharq
Tour Length
1 day
Type
Trip
Ideal for
Families
2 Days at Wadi Shees, Al Rafisah Dam and Khorfakkan for Families
Day 1
1 – 1:30 mins stop at Wadi Shees for beautiful mountain views and walk around the park.
Arrive at Al Rafisah Dam, 1 hr breakfast at the restaurant
1 hr kayak around the dam, using the Al Khor Kayak facilities
30 mins in the children’s play area
30 min recharge and have ice cream / dessert / coffee at ice cream shop / restaurant
15 min #AlRafisahDam photography
Head to the hotel to check in / lunch / rest
1-2 hrs beach / swimming time at the hotel if staying at the Oceanic hotel or enjoy the Khorfakkan public beach
Dinner at the hotel restaurant or Khorfakkan beach restaurants / cafes
Day 2
1 -2 hrs head out for breakfast at Al Suhub Rest
Enjoy the stunning views and make sure to take plenty of photos
1 – 1:30 mins drive into Khorfakkan and view the Khorfakkan Waterfall and Amphitheatre
1 hr enjoy a wander around Souq Sharq, shopping
1-2 hrs head to the Resistance Monument for a glimpse into history, stunning views of Khorfakkan and lunch at the popular V Café
1 hr stop at the Khorfakkan Square to view the beautiful fountains and let the kids enjoy the park facilities before heading home.
