The Sharqiyin and Pursuit of Fujairan Independence

Abstract

Fujaira is a small emirate with 3 percent of the population and 1.5 percent of the landmass (440 square miles) of the entire UAE. It is relatively poor because of the absence of oil resources. In some ways it is unique, including that it is the only emirate located on the Gulf of Oman. Its territory comprises four noncontiguous land units including Fujaira and small towns located on the Shamaliya coast, north of Oman. The Shamaliya stretches from Dibba in the north to Khaur Kalba in the south and includes inland valleys that empty from the Hajar mountains into the Gulf of Oman. The mountains trap rainfall that makes agriculture possible. Its economy is based on fishing, trade, maritime services, agriculture, and some tourism.