Dibba

Spending a Lively Day in Dibba

The coastal strip of Dibba occupying the north eastern stretch of Gulf of Oman is politically split into three parts namely Dibba Al-Fujairah, Dibba Al-Hisn and Dibba Al-Baya. While the first two regions are governed by the Emirates of Fujairah and Sharjah, UAE, respectively, the third region comes under Oman.

Described as being an Omani territory surrounded by the UAE on all sides, its location on the southern end of the Musandam peninsula makes access a little difficult. As a result, while it is well connected by air with Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the same cannot be claimed about flight connections with Muscat which are not only infrequent but undependable as well. Another alternative is to travel by road as it is connected with UAE via a single road and with Musandam, Oman, via two roads but the journey is believed as being arduous and tiring.

Dibba’s existence is an essential aspect in the history of the region as during the ancient years it was an extensive settlement on the coast of Oman. Its high point was an international trade market in which Indian and Chinese merchants plied their wares while crossing the Arabian Sea. Many of the archaeological expeditions in the area have been attributed to this historical role as a natural harbour which was witness to varied cultures and ethnicities.

Being one of the rare regions in the world which feature an active fault, Dibba is of considerable interest to geologists. The fault is a geological consequence of recent seismic activity and while its point of origin lies in the UAE, it runs into Oman from the north and continues southwards to taper out around the middle of the Arabian Peninsula. As per the geologist’s jargon, it is the Dibba fault which separates the ophiolites of the Oman Mountains from the Mesozoic carbonates characterizing the Musandam Peninsula.

Each of the three segments of the town enjoys its own distinct identity and culture, the difference arising due to the varied governing bodies. All three segments, however, make worthy tourist attractions as well with Dibba Al-Fujairah on the east being well known for beautiful beaches and water sports, the smallest Dibba Al-Hisn featuring a Portuguese fort and the northern Dibba Al-Baya serving as the gateway to the Musandam Peninsula.

While campers and adventure lovers prefer Dibba Al-Fujairah during winters, the heavily populated section of Dibba Al-Hisn is noteworthy for its fish market.