Shark Island, officially called Sira Khorfakkan, is a small rocky island just off Khorfakkan Beach on the east coast of Sharjah, UAE, facing the Gulf of Oman. A short boat ride of about 10 minutes from the Khorfakkan Corniche takes you to clear water and coral reefs where you can snorkel, swim, dive and kayak among sea turtles, colourful reef fish and the shy blacktip reef sharks that gave the island its name.
Planning your Next trip? Let White Sky handle it.
We book your attraction tickets and tours, with the option to pay later with Tabby, Tamara or UAE credit card monthly instalments.
The island has no hotels, cafes or toilets, so it is best enjoyed as a half day nature trip, and the cooler months from October to April are the most comfortable time to go. White Sky Travel can arrange your boat trip on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133.
Table of Contents
Shark Island quick facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Official name | Sira Khorfakkan (popularly known as Shark Island) |
| Location | Off Khorfakkan Beach Corniche, Khorfakkan, Sharjah, UAE |
| How to get there | Short boat ride from Khorfakkan Beach Corniche |
| Boat ride time | About 10 minutes each way, depending on sea conditions |
| Driving time from Dubai | Around two hours, depending on traffic |
| Best for | Snorkeling, swimming, scuba diving, kayaking and photography |
| Marine life | Turtles, blacktip reef sharks (mostly in winter), moray eels, rays, Arabian angelfish and anemone gardens |
| Maximum depth | About 16 metres |
| Best time to visit | October to April, ideally in the morning |
| Facilities | Very limited: no toilets, shops or cafes on the island |
| Booking | Through White Sky on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 |
Where is Shark Island located?
Shark Island sits in Khorfakkan Bay, a short distance from the main public beach and corniche of Khorfakkan, a coastal town that belongs to the Emirate of Sharjah but lies on the UAE east coast between Fujairah and Dibba. The boat pickup area is on Khorfakkan Beach Corniche, Khorfakkan, Sharjah, UAE. From Dubai or Sharjah city, the drive takes around two hours through the Hajar Mountains, which makes it an easy day trip for UAE residents and visitors. Many travellers stop at the Al Suhub Rest Area on the mountain road for wide views over the bay.
What can you see and do on Shark Island?
The island is loved for its clear water and healthy coral. Gulf News reports that snorkelers can see anemone gardens and turtles, while divers come for rock formations full of moray eels, rays, Arabian angelfish, barracuda, batfish and sergeant majors. Blacktip reef sharks are usually spotted on the eastern side of the island. The UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment lists Shark Island as an ecotourism dive site with a maximum depth of 16 metres and notes that the sharks are mostly seen in the winter months. If you enjoy this kind of trip, Snoopy Island in Fujairah is another great snorkeling spot on the east coast.
- Snorkeling: the shallow reef close to the rocks is the main attraction and suits beginners in calm weather.
- Swimming: the water is clear and usually calm in the morning.
- Scuba diving: the deeper rocky slopes are popular with certified divers.
- Kayaking: paddle around the island and spot fish from above the water.
- Photography: mountain views of Khorfakkan Bay and underwater shots of the reef.
Is it safe to swim near the sharks?
Yes, for most visitors. The blacktip reef sharks around the island, seen mostly in the winter months, are small and shy, and they usually keep their distance from swimmers. Many visitors never see one at all. Stay calm, do not chase or feed any marine life, and always follow the advice of your boat captain. There are no lifeguards on the island, so children should wear life jackets and stay close to an adult.
How to get to Shark Island
- Message White Sky Travel and Tourism on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 with your date and group size.
- Receive your confirmation with the meeting point on Khorfakkan Beach Corniche and your departure time.
- Arrive 15 minutes before departure and use the beach restrooms and changing areas before you leave.
- Put on your life jacket and enjoy the boat ride of about 10 minutes to the island.
- Agree on a clear return time with the captain before you step off the boat.
- Snorkel and swim within safe areas, then meet the boat at your agreed time to return to the corniche.
Shark Island trip options at a glance
| Situation | Best option | Time to plan | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Family trip | Private boat | Half day | Shade, water and life jackets |
| Solo snorkeling | Shared boat | Two to three hours | Gear fit and sea conditions |
| Weekend visit | Book in advance | Full day with the drive | Busy boats and weather reports |
| Budget trip | Shared boat | Two to three hours | Fixed departure times |
| Photo session | Private charter | Early morning | Best light and calm water |
Best time to visit Shark Island
The best season is October to April, when air and sea temperatures are comfortable for a day on the water. Mornings are usually the calmest part of the day with the clearest water, while wind often picks up in the afternoon. Summer is very hot and there is little shade on the island, so plan an early start if you visit between May and September. Before you travel, check the marine forecast from the National Center of Meteorology, because boats do not sail when the sea is rough.
What to bring to Shark Island
- Plenty of drinking water and light snacks
- Reef safe sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses
- A rash guard to protect your skin from sun and coral
- Water shoes, as the shore is rocky
- Your own mask, snorkel and fins if you have them (rentals are available)
- A dry bag for your phone, keys and documents
- A small bag to take all your rubbish back to the mainland
Common issues and how to solve them
| What you notice | What it usually means | What to do first | How to avoid it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rough waves | Strong wind | Return to the boat or shore | Go in the morning and check the forecast |
| Murky water | Wind or swell stirring sand | Move to a calmer side of the island | Choose calm days |
| Skin irritation | Touching coral or jellyfish | Rinse with fresh water | Wear a rash guard and avoid contact |
| Sunburn | Too much sun on the water | Cover up and rest in shade | Use high SPF and reapply often |
| Slipping on rocks | Wet, uneven shoreline | Move slowly and sit to rest | Wear water shoes |
Rules for a safe and respectful visit
- Follow every instruction from your boat captain, who is responsible for your safety at sea.
- Do not stand on, touch or break coral. The reef is a living habitat.
- Do not feed, chase or touch turtles, sharks or fish.
- Take every piece of rubbish back with you. Facilities on the island are very limited.
- If you feel a current pulling you away from the island, stop swimming against it, signal for help and move back towards the rocks calmly.
Shark Island trip cost and payment
The cost of your trip depends on whether you choose a shared or private boat, your group size, the day you travel and any gear rental. Prices may change with the season, terms and conditions apply, and the final price is confirmed during booking. You can pay with Tabby, Tamara or UAE credit cards with installments of up to 12 months. Ask our team about your card eligibility when you message us on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133.
When to choose another day out
Shark Island is a natural, undeveloped spot, so it is not the right choice if you want a resort day with pools, restaurants and sun loungers. Getting on and off small boats can also be difficult for guests with limited mobility. In those cases, a beach hotel day in Khorfakkan, one of the beaches in Fujairah or a resort such as Le Méridien Al Aqah Beach Resort in Fujairah is a more comfortable choice, and White Sky can help you plan that too.
Book your Shark Island trip with White Sky
White Sky Travel and Tourism makes your Khorfakkan day simple. Send us your preferred date, group size and whether you want a shared or private boat on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133, and our team will confirm your boat, meeting point and payment options. If strong wind or rough sea warnings are announced, contact us and we will help you reschedule.
Related Articles
Planning more time on the east coast? These guides will help you build a full day out:
- Khorfakkan Beach in Sharjah: Things to Do, Tips and How to Get There
- Khorfakkan Waterfalls in Sharjah
- Khorfakkan Amphitheatre in Sharjah: Events, Waterfall and Visitor Tips
- Wadi Shees in Khorfakkan: Shees Park, Waterfall and Travel Tips
- Snoopy Island in Fujairah: How to Visit, Snorkel and Spot Turtles
- Beaches in Fujairah: Best Public Beaches, Snorkelling Spots and Tips
- Hanging Garden Kalba in Sharjah: Tickets, Timings and Things to Do
- Al Suhub Rest Area in Khor Fakkan: Views, Parking and Tips
Frequently asked questions about Shark Island
Where is Shark Island?
Shark Island, officially called Sira Khorfakkan, is a small rocky island off Khorfakkan Beach Corniche, Khorfakkan, Sharjah, UAE. It sits in Khorfakkan Bay on the Gulf of Oman, around two hours by car from Dubai.
Why is it called Shark Island?
The island is named after the blacktip reef sharks that are often seen on its eastern side, mostly in the winter months. They are small, shy and usually keep their distance from swimmers.
How do I get to Shark Island?
Drive to Khorfakkan Beach Corniche and take a short boat ride of about 10 minutes to the island. White Sky can arrange your shared or private boat on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133.
Is Shark Island safe for children?
Yes, Shark Island is suitable for families on calm days. Children should wear life jackets and stay close to an adult because there are no lifeguards on the island and the shoreline is rocky.
What is the best time to visit Shark Island?
The best time is from October to April, in the morning, when the weather is cooler and the sea is usually calm and clear. Wind often increases in the afternoon.
Are there toilets or restaurants on Shark Island?
No. The island has no toilets, shops or restaurants. Use the restrooms and changing areas at Khorfakkan Beach before you leave and bring your own water and snacks.
Do I need my own snorkeling gear?
No, gear rental is available, but bringing your own mask, snorkel and fins gives you the best fit. Water shoes are also useful because the shore is rocky.
Can I visit Shark Island on weekdays?
Yes. Weekdays are usually quieter than weekends. Message White Sky on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 to check boat availability for your preferred date.
How can I pay for a Shark Island trip?
You can pay with Tabby, Tamara or UAE credit cards with installments of up to 12 months. Terms and conditions apply and the final price is confirmed during booking.
Conclusion
Shark Island in Khorfakkan is one of the easiest ways to see coral reefs, turtles and reef sharks in the UAE without a long journey. The boat ride is short, the water is clear on calm days and the island stays wild and natural.
After your boat trip, you can walk to the Khorfakkan Waterfalls and the Khorfakkan Amphitheatre on the corniche, or drive inland to Wadi Shees for a green mountain stop. Go between October and April, start early in the morning, pack water, sun protection and a dry bag, and leave nothing behind. When you are ready, message White Sky on WhatsApp at +971 4 220 2133 and we will arrange your trip, with flexible payment through Tabby, Tamara or UAE credit cards.
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