Al Hefaiyah Lake is a man made mountain lake in Kalba, on the east coast of Sharjah, set at the foot of the Hajar Mountains along the Sharjah Kalba Road just past the Al Hiyar Tunnel. Opened by the Ruler of Sharjah in March 2024, the lake covers about 132,000 square metres, holds around 155 million gallons of water and doubles as a water reservoir for Kalba. Visitors come for kayaking and boat rides, a scenic walking trail around the water, lakeside cafes, children’s play areas and the elegant Al Hefaiyah Mosque. Entry is free, the lake is reported to open daily from 4 PM to 1 AM, and it is about a 90 minute drive from Dubai, which makes it one of the easiest nature day trips from the city.

Al Hefaiyah Lake at a glance

What is Al Hefaiyah Lake?

Al Hefaiyah Lake is one of Sharjah’s urban infrastructure projects for Kalba. According to the Emirates News Agency (WAM), it was built as a strategic water reservoir with a capacity of 155 million gallons and a depth of up to four metres. A 3.2 km water conduit brings water from the lowlands and surrounding mountains, while three barriers and filters limit valley water and help keep the lake clean. Around the reservoir, Sharjah added a 3.17 km dual lane road, green spaces, a rest house, play areas and a mosque, turning it into a public leisure destination.

What makes the lake special is the setting. The blue water sits right against the rugged peaks of the Hajar Mountains, so it feels far from the busy cities of Dubai and Sharjah. The Sharjah24 report on the lake opening also highlights the nearby Kalba Hanging Gardens and waterfalls, and the Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre run by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority is just down the road, so you can easily combine them in one trip.

Where is Al Hefaiyah Lake and how to get there

The lake is located on Sharjah Kalba Road (E102), Al Hefaiyah, Kalba, Sharjah, near the Kalba Hanging Gardens. From Dubai or Sharjah city, join the E102 (from the E11 via Maleha Road, from the E311 at exit 65, or from the E611 at the Sharjah Mosque Interchange) and drive about 80 to 90 km east through the mountains. The lake appears shortly after the Al Hiyar Tunnel, just before Kalba town. Gulf News has a detailed route guide if you want more driving tips. Visitors coming from Fujairah can follow the Kalba Ring Road towards the mountains.

• By car: about 1 hour 30 minutes from Dubai and a similar time from Sharjah city. Free parking is available at the entrance roundabout and around the lake.
• By private tour or transfer: the most relaxed option if you do not want to drive the mountain road. White Sky Travel can arrange a private car or a Kalba day tour that includes the lake.
• By public transport: intercity buses run to Kalba, but there is no direct stop at the lake, so a taxi or private transfer is needed for the final stretch.

Things to do at Al Hefaiyah Lake

Kayaking and boat rides

Paddling across the calm water with the mountains around you is the highlight of a visit. Life jackets are mandatory, and both cash and card are accepted at the boat station. If you love paddling between mountains, you will also enjoy Al Rafisah Dam in Khorfakkan and Suhaila Lake Hatta. Reported prices at Al Hefaiyah are:

Prices and timings may change, and T&C apply.

Walking and hiking trails

An easy paved path of about 2 km loops around the water and suits families, strollers and casual walkers. For more of a challenge, the lake connects to an 11.7 km network of mountain trails, including the Al Hefaiyah Lake Trail, the Eastern Mountain Trail, the Northern and Southern Al Friesh Mountain Trails and the Al Friesh Lake Trail, with routes for different fitness levels. Wear proper shoes and carry water on the mountain sections.

Picnics and children’s play areas

Grassy lawns and benches line the shore, making the lake a lovely picnic spot. There are two play areas, one for younger children and one for older kids, near the Al Hefaiyah Rest House. There is no shop on site, so bring snacks and drinks. Barbecues and any cooking are not allowed.

Lakeside cafes and restaurants

Two venues overlook the water: Mara Cafe, serving coffee, burgers, sandwiches, salads and desserts, and Simuli Restaurant, with a wider menu that includes Emirati dishes. Both have indoor and outdoor seating, and dinner on the terrace as the mountains light up at sunset is a great way to end the day.

Al Hefaiyah Mosque

The striking lakeside mosque covers 852 square metres, holds 495 worshippers and has a 36 metre minaret, a women’s prayer hall, a large outdoor courtyard and an Islamic library. Its design draws on Fatimid architecture and it makes a beautiful photo backdrop against the peaks. Please dress modestly if you visit.

Al Hefaiyah Lake opening hours and entry fees

Entry to Al Hefaiyah Lake is free. The lake is reported to be open daily from 4 PM to 1 AM, with the cafes staying open later during Ramadan. You only pay for activities such as kayaking and boat rides, and for food at the cafes. Timings may change during holidays and summer, and T&C apply.

Best time to visit Al Hefaiyah Lake

The cooler months from October to April are the most comfortable time to visit, with pleasant evenings and clear mountain views. Plan to arrive around 5:30 PM to 6 PM, when the mountains shade the lake and the light is perfect for photos before sunset. Weekdays are quieter than weekends and public holidays, when families from across the UAE drive out to Kalba. In summer, stick to the evening hours and keep activities short.

Rules and tips for visitors

• Swimming in the lake is not allowed.
• Barbecues and cooking are not permitted anywhere around the lake.
• Dogs are not allowed, in line with Sharjah rules for public parks and beaches.
• Life jackets are mandatory for kayaks and boats.
• Flying a drone requires a permit from the UAE authorities.
• Keep the area clean and take your rubbish with you.
• Dress respectfully, especially near the mosque.
• Bring a light jacket in winter, as evenings in the mountains can feel cool.

Nearby attractions in Kalba

Al Hefaiyah Lake is a great base for a full Kalba day trip. These attractions are all a short drive away:

• Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre: a wildlife centre run by the Environment and Protected Areas Authority, home to around 30 native species including the Arabian leopard, Arabian tahr, striped hyena and Arabian wolf. Tickets are AED 15 for adults and free for children under 12. It opens Tuesday to Thursday 9 AM to 6:30 PM, Friday 2 PM to 6:30 PM, and Saturday and Sunday 11 AM to 6:30 PM. Prices and timings may change, and T&C apply.
• Kalba Hanging Gardens: the Hanging Garden Kalba has terraced mountain gardens just across the highway, with walking paths and panoramic views.
• Kalba Birds of Prey Centre and Al Ghail Fort: falcons, eagles and owls, plus a historic fort, about a kilometre further along the road.
• Mangroves and wildlife: the Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre lets you walk a boardwalk through 300 year old mangroves and spot the rare Arabian collared kingfisher.
• Al Friesh Lake trails: mountain walks that link directly to the Al Hefaiyah trail network.
• Khor Kalba mangroves and Kalba Corniche: one of the oldest mangrove forests in Arabia and a relaxed seafront, ideal for kayaking and sunset walks.
• Khorfakkan mountain views: continue over the mountains to the Al Suhub Rest Area for sweeping views over Khorfakkan, or explore the Wadi Shees village and waterfall.
• Fujairah: Kalba borders Fujairah, so you can add beaches, forts and mountain spots from our guide to the top tourist places in Fujairah.

Plan your Kalba day trip with White Sky Travel

Want to enjoy Al Hefaiyah Lake without the long drive? White Sky Travel and Tourism can arrange private transfers, Kalba and east coast day tours, and hotel stays in Kalba and Fujairah, all tailored to your group and budget. Spread the cost with Tabby or Tamara, or pay in easy installments of up to 12 months with participating UAE credit cards. Message our team on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 and we will plan everything for you.

Related Articles

Planning more nature trips around the UAE? These guides will help:

• Hanging Garden Kalba in Sharjah: Tickets, Timings and Things to Do
• Al Rafisah Dam in Khorfakkan: Kayaking, Waterfall and Visitor Tips
• Suhaila Lake Hatta: Free Camping, BBQ and Hiking Guide
• Al Suhub Rest Area in Khor Fakkan: Views, Parking and Tips
• Wadi Shees in Khorfakkan: Shees Park, Waterfall and Travel Tips
• Top Tourist Places in Fujairah
• UAE Tourist Attractions Near Me

Frequently asked questions

Where is Al Hefaiyah Lake located?

Read moreSharjah National Park: Top Attractions and Visitor Guide

Al Hefaiyah Lake is on Sharjah Kalba Road (E102), Al Hefaiyah, Kalba, Sharjah, UAE. It sits at the foot of the Hajar Mountains just after the Al Hiyar Tunnel, near the Kalba Hanging Gardens.

Is there an entry fee for Al Hefaiyah Lake?

No. Entry to Al Hefaiyah Lake is free. You only pay for activities such as kayaking and boat rides, and for food at the lakeside cafes.

What are the opening hours of Al Hefaiyah Lake?

The lake is reported to be open daily from 4 PM to 1 AM, with cafes staying open later during Ramadan. Timings may change, and T&C apply.

How much does kayaking cost at Al Hefaiyah Lake?

A single kayak costs about AED 20 per hour and a double kayak about AED 40 per hour. A 30 minute boat ride costs about AED 100 for up to 3 people or AED 130 for 4 to 5 people. Prices may change, and T&C apply.

Can you swim in Al Hefaiyah Lake?

No. Swimming is not allowed in Al Hefaiyah Lake. You can enjoy the water by kayak or boat, with life jackets provided and mandatory.

How far is Al Hefaiyah Lake from Dubai?

Al Hefaiyah Lake is about 1 hour 30 minutes from Dubai by car via the Sharjah Kalba Road (E102). The drive from Sharjah city takes a similar time.

Is Al Hefaiyah Lake good for families and children?

Yes. The lake has two children’s play areas, grassy picnic spots, a flat paved walking path and family friendly cafes. Keep young children supervised near the water.

Are dogs and barbecues allowed at Al Hefaiyah Lake?

No. Dogs are not allowed, in line with Sharjah rules for public parks, and barbecues or any cooking are not permitted around the lake.

What is the best time to visit Al Hefaiyah Lake?

The best time is from October to April. Arrive around 5:30 PM, when the mountains shade the lake and the light is ideal for photos before sunset.

What can you see near Al Hefaiyah Lake?

Nearby attractions include the Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre, the Kalba Hanging Gardens, the Kalba Birds of Prey Centre, Al Ghail Fort, the Al Friesh Lake trails and the Khor Kalba mangroves.

How can I book a trip to Al Hefaiyah Lake?

Contact White Sky Travel and Tourism on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 to book a private transfer or Kalba day tour. You can pay with Tabby or Tamara, or in installments of up to 12 months with participating UAE credit cards.

Conclusion

Al Hefaiyah Lake brings together calm water, dramatic mountain scenery and family friendly facilities in one free destination on Sharjah’s east coast. Come in the late afternoon, paddle a kayak, walk the lake trail, enjoy dinner by the water and pair your visit with the Mountain Conservation Centre or the Kalba Hanging Gardens for a full day out. Whether you are a UAE resident looking for a weekend escape or a visitor wanting to see a different side of the Emirates, the lake is well worth the trip. To book your transfer or Kalba day tour, contact White Sky Travel on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133.