Wadi Sharm
Al Buraymī
Wadi Sharm is a natural valley located in the northeast of the United Arab Emirates within the Emirate of Fujairah. It forms its own drainage basin covering about 6 square kilometers, bordered by other wadis and the town of Al Bidiyah. The wadi originates from the northwestern slope of Jabal Badiyah, a 459-meter high mountain, and flows intermittently during the rainy season towards the coast, passing through the small town of Sharm. The terrain is characterized by steep, rugged hills composed mainly of harzburgite rock. Historically, the area was inhabited by the Sharqiyin tribe, with the village of Sharm documented in early 20th-century British records as a small coastal settlement with agricultural and livestock activities. The wadi has experienced significant flooding events, notably in 2009 when the collapse of an old earthen dam caused extensive damage to the town and surrounding farmland. A new dam has since been constructed to mitigate flood risks and enhance groundwater recharge. Wadi Sharm's unique geological features and cultural heritage make it a notable natural and historical site in the UAE.
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Astuce: Visitors to Wadi Sharm should plan their visit during the dry season to avoid flash floods common in the rainy months. It is advisable to check local weather conditions and access information beforehand. While the area is natural and less developed, arranging transport and local guidance can enhance the experience. No specific ticketing is required as it is a natural feature, but respecting local customs and the environment is important.
Faits intéressants
- •Wadi Sharm's terrain consists predominantly of harzburgite, a rare type of ultramafic rock.
- •The wadi covers a drainage basin of approximately 6 square kilometers.
- •In 2009, the collapse of an old dam caused flooding that affected 2,500 inhabitants and caused millions in damages.
- •The area was historically inhabited by the Sharqiyin tribe, known for agriculture and livestock farming.
- •British cartographer Julian F. Walker documented Wadi Sharm during border demarcation between the Trucial States in the 1950s-60s.
Histoire
Wadi Sharm was historically inhabited by the Sharqiyin tribe, as documented in early 20th-century British records describing the village of Sharm as a small settlement with agricultural activities.
The name and mapping of Wadi Sharm were formalized during the mid-20th century by British cartographer Julian F.
Walker during border demarcation efforts.
The wadi's landscape has been shaped by natural processes and human interventions, including the construction and subsequent collapse of an earthen dam, leading to significant flooding in 2009.
Following this event, a new dam was built to prevent future floods and support groundwater recharge, marking an important development in the wadi's recent history.
