Al Rafisah Dam
A picturesque dam nestled amidst mountains, offering serene views, water activities, and family fun. A perfect day trip from Dubai.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Al Rafisah Dam
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque dam nestled amidst mountains, offering serene views, water activities, and family fun. A perfect day trip from Dubai.
"Stunning scenery, family-friendly, and affordable kayaking make Al Rafisah Dam a must-visit."
🚗 Easy Drive from Dubai
Just a 1-hour drive from Dubai, making it a perfect day trip destination!
💰 Affordable Kayaking
Single kayaks for AED 30, double for AED 60 (unlimited time).
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Serene Dam Views
Main dam area
Stunning mountain backdrop meets calm, blue waters. Perfect for photos and relaxation.
Kayaking & Pedal Boats
Water activities center
Explore the dam's beauty from the water. Affordable options for solo or double kayaks.
Kids' Play Area
Designated zone
A fun, free space for children to play and enjoy the outdoors.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Heat & Crowds
Budget-Friendly Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Drive from Dubai
Just a 1-hour drive from Dubai, making it a perfect day trip destination!
💰 Affordable Kayaking
Single kayaks for AED 30, double for AED 60 (unlimited time).
🍎 Pack Snacks & Drinks
Restaurants and kiosks can be pricey; bring your own food for a budget-friendly visit.
☀️ Avoid Summer Heat
Humidity is high in summer. Visit during cooler months for comfort.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Drive from Dubai
Just a 1-hour drive from Dubai, making it a perfect day trip destination!
💰 Affordable Kayaking
Single kayaks for AED 30, double for AED 60 (unlimited time).
🍎 Pack Snacks & Drinks
Restaurants and kiosks can be pricey; bring your own food for a budget-friendly visit.
☀️ Avoid Summer Heat
Humidity is high in summer. Visit during cooler months for comfort.
🅿️ Paid Parking
Public parking is available but requires payment. Don't forget to pay to avoid fines.
🦆 Feed the Ducks
Kids love interacting with the ducks and fish around the water.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Al Rafisah Dam is a beautiful and family-friendly destination offering stunning mountain views and a relaxing atmosphere. Visitors appreciate the free entry, the kids' play area, and the scenic beauty, though some find the activities and food options a bit expensive. It's a well-maintained spot perfect for a peaceful day out, especially during the cooler months.
"Quiet and peaceful place to spend sometimes away from the buzy Dubai😙they have a clean mosque. There is boat, kayak and donut boat for riding. Actually, I didn’t like the fixed time for this facility which is an hour. We came in the afternoon want to have the boat around half an hour, but tha lady said even though you have to pay for the whole hour🥲any way I like the place and recommend it to you 👌👌"
Hana Alsharief
"A wonderful spot for a family picnic! We love the serene views, the natural surroundings, and the peaceful atmosphere. The kids especially enjoy the play area, and it’s a great place for them to connect with nature. Truly a relaxing and refreshing place for the whole family."
PAQUITA REYES BOLO
"Rafisah Dam is one of the most beautiful and family-friendly destinations in Khorfakkan. The view of the dam itself is stunning, surrounded by mountains and greenery, making it a very relaxing place to spend time. There is so much to do here that it feels like a full-day trip destination rather than just a quick stop. Families will especially enjoy the atmosphere, as the area is designed with plenty of seating, shaded spots, and dedicated play areas for kids.
The boat rides are a big attraction, but they are quite expensive compared to what you might expect. Still, it’s a nice experience if you want to see the dam from the water. My kids had the most fun simply interacting with the ducks and fishes around the water, which shows that even without spending much, you can still enjoy the place. There are also walking paths and small trails where you can stroll and enjoy the calm surroundings.
Parking is widely available, but it is public paid parking, so keep that in mind when planning your visit. The restaurants and kiosks around also tend to be on the pricey side, so it might be better to bring some snacks or food if you’re coming as a big family.
One important note is that Rafisah Dam is not ideal for the summer season. Khorfakkan is known for its heavy humidity during the hot months, and being outdoors for long periods can be uncomfortable. The best time to visit is in the cooler months, from late October to early April, when the weather makes the whole experience much more pleasant.
Overall, Rafisah Dam is a lovely, well-maintained place where you can relax, take in the views, and let kids enjoy nature. While it can be expensive, especially the activities, it’s still worth visiting at least once, and with the right timing, it’s a perfect spot to make lasting family memories."
Abdul Wahab
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Al Rafisah Dam is conveniently located about a 1-hour drive from Dubai, making it an accessible day trip destination.
The road conditions are generally good, with the dam being easily accessible via the new Sharjah-Khorfakkan highway. Travelers advise being mindful of speed limits, especially at night.
Yes, Al Rafisah Dam is situated right by the road on the way to Khor Fakkan, appearing over a hill, making it easy to spot.
Absolutely! Driving is the most common and recommended way to reach Al Rafisah Dam, especially from Dubai or Sharjah.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Al Rafisah Dam directly. Driving is the most practical method.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to Al Rafisah Dam itself is free, allowing visitors to enjoy the scenery and public areas without charge.
Kayaking is a popular activity. A single kayak costs AED 30 and a double kayak costs AED 60, with unlimited time.
While entry is free, activities like pedal boats and other water sports may have separate charges. It's best to inquire at the activity center.
Operating hours for activities like kayaking can vary. It's advisable to check on-site or with local tourism information for the most up-to-date times.
For kayaking and pedal boats, advance booking is usually not required, especially on weekdays. However, during peak times or weekends, it might be beneficial to arrive early.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Visitors can enjoy the scenic dam views, go kayaking or pedal boating, relax by the water, explore walking paths, and let kids play in the dedicated area.
Yes, it's a very family-friendly destination with a kids' playground, ample seating, and a generally relaxed atmosphere.
There are restaurants and kiosks available, offering food and drinks. However, they can be on the pricier side.
Expect stunning views of the dam surrounded by mountains and calm waters, creating a picturesque and peaceful environment.
Yes, public paid parking is available at Al Rafisah Dam. Remember to pay the fee to avoid fines.
📸 📸 Photography
The dam itself with the mountain backdrop, the water with reflections, and the colorful flowers offer great photo opportunities. The kayaking shots are also popular. 
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's best to check with local authorities or the park management before flying a drone.
The dam wall, the restaurant terrace overlooking the water, and the surrounding natural landscape are prime spots for memorable photos.
Landscape photography, family portraits, and action shots of water activities are very popular at Al Rafisah Dam.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
To keep costs down, pack your own food and drinks, as restaurant prices can add up. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Capture the reflections, the textures of the rock formations, and the serene lake. The best times for photography are typically early mornings or late afternoons when the light is softer and crowds are thinner. Don't miss the opportunity to photograph the colorful boats on the water for added visual appeal. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Al Rafisah Dam: Activities and Attractions
+1 Many visitors highlight this as a must-do, offering a unique perspective of the dam and its environment. Beyond water activities, the dam area is designed for relaxation and family fun. There's a well-maintained kids' playground, providing a safe and enjoyable space for children to expend energy.
For those looking for refreshments, a restaurant with a terrace offers dining options with a view of the lake.
While some reviews mention that food and activities can be on the pricier side, the overall experience is considered worthwhile. Planning Your Visit: Best Times and Practical Tips
When it comes to budgeting, remember that while the dam's entry is free, activities like kayaking and pedal boating come with a cost.
For those who appreciate photography, the dam offers numerous scenic spots.
Capture the reflections on the water, the majestic mountain backdrop, and the vibrant flora. The interplay of light during the early morning or late afternoon can create particularly stunning photographic opportunities. Overall, Al Rafisah Dam is a well-maintained and beautiful destination that offers a blend of relaxation and light adventure, best enjoyed with a bit of planning.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit