A Sky-High Escape in Khorfakkan: Exploring Al Suhub Rest Area’s Mountain Lounge

One of the most spectacular mountain places in Sharjah is Al Suhub Rest Area which is located at the top of the coastal city of Khorfakkan. It is also commonly known as the Cloud Lounge, because this viewpoint takes the form of a saucer and is located at an altitude of approximately 600 meters above sea level providing a panoramic 360 degrees view of the Hajar Mountains, the city of Khorfakkan and the dazzling Gulf of Oman. 

It is a great place to have an experience of a lifetime be it hot mountain air, beautiful scenery, or just a calm time above the clouds.

Al Suhub Rest Area Location

It is a mountain view station located in Khorfakkan, Sharjah and it can be accessed through a well-paved road that connects straight to the city. Above view of Khorfakkan at the resting spot leaves the visitors with occasional view of the coastline crashing onto the rocky mountains.

Cloud Lounge Overview

The Cloud Lounge is a circular structure of the future, however, it does not simply serve as a deck to view the world, however, it also serves as a relaxing and resting spot in the clouds. The clients may decide to walk around the building on the high rise and to sit under the shaded conditions and admire the continuous scenery. As one approaches the mountain alone, there is no way that he/she does not admire the trip through dramatic cliffs and green valleys.

Architecture & Design

The rest house is designed in an unusual way, with a two-level structure in the form of a saucer or cup which is almost 30 meters in diameter. The building has large glass walls which enclosures visitors with clear views in all directions. The interior is light, pristine and contemporary. Go out to the terraces and you are greeted with cool mountain air and gorgeous panorama views that one would want to stop and take the moment.

Opening Hours

While the area is accessible at all hours, the restaurant and cafe generally operate from 8 am to 10 pm.

Key Amenities

Tourists will be able to use a number of well-considered amenities, such as:

• Clean restrooms
• Shaded seating areas
• Walking paths
• Parking facilities
• Small refreshment booths (availability can be different)
• Cloud Lounge: Glass building and view building.
• Dining: Restaurant & cafe
• Family: Kids’ play area
• Prayer Rooms: men, women.
• Hiking: Trail to Al Rafisah Dam.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Sharjah in a year would be the month of October to April since this is the month that is colder. The best are during the late afternoons when the sun is setting behind the mountains and in the mornings when one would like to take pictures in the fresh air and soft light.

Al Suhub Rest Area Ticket Prices

The  Al Suhub Rest Area is free to access! There are no fees to enjoy the view and walking areas.

Some costs you might have:

• Parking: AED 10/hour on weekdays, AED 20/hour on weekends and holidays.
• Food / Drinks: Purchasing food or coffee in the restaurant or cafe.
• Free Parking Promotion: It is a time-based promotion whereby one has to spend some amount of money at the cafe or restaurant (it is usually AED 50 and above) in order to be eligible to 2 hours of free parking.

Weather & Temperature

The altitude is so high that the resting place is much colder as compared to city Khorfakkan that is situated lower. During the summer it is hotter, and it is bitterly cold in the evening of the winter, refreshing. Light jackets should be worn when the weather is colder (especially in the evening when the sun has already set).

How to Get There

By Car

Coming in Khorfakkan, take the Al Maktoum Road (E102) leading to Sharjah and then turn to the directions of the Rest Area. After half an hour or so, leave the highway to Jabal Al Hawami and follow the instructions. The parking is here, with the rest space on the right.

By Taxi

There is no need to have your own car since you can take taxi anywhere in Khorfakkan. You just need to get the driver informed that you want to go to the Rest Area located in Jabal Al Hawami. The duration of the ride is around 30 minutes and costs 50-70 AED, once again, depending on the traffic.

By Bus

Al Suhub lacks bus services to the general population. One can also use a bus to Sharjah Central Bus Station in Khorfakkan (approximately 15 AED). You will have to take a taxi to the place of rest there and this will cost you 40-50 AED.

Nearby Attractions

Travelers who visit the Cloud Lounge usually visit:

• Khorfakkan Beach
• Al Rafisah Dam
• Shees Park
• Khorfakkan Amphitheatre
• Khorfakkan waterfall

The spots are a complement to mountain experience, coastal views, greenery and cultural landmarks.

Top Things to Do

Some of the activities that are enjoyed by the visitors include the following:

• Shoot panoramic shots of mountains and sea
• Youth picnic and hike in the areas
• Watch the sunrise or sunset
• Breakfast, lunch or coffee with spectacular views
• Let kids play in the play area
• Begin or end a hike around Al Rafisah Dam
• Calm down and have a relaxing Cloud Lounge

What Makes It Special

The high location and transparent open views make Al Suhub special. It seems like you are on top of the clouds on a colder day. The visitors can have expansive views of the Khorfakkan Bay, the Gulf of Oman, and the stunning Hajar Mountains, all the way up. This scenic spot was opened in July 2021 by the Ruler of Sharjah and has since been a popular tourist destination spot by travelers and photographers looking to be on the east coast.

Visitor Tips

• During the golden hour, it is best to visit and get snapshots.
• Bring water, particularly during hot weather.
• Put on comfortable walking shoes.
• Value purity and the environment.
• Weekends are not the best time to be there unless you want peaceful conditions.

These are just several tips that can ensure your trip is perfect and easy.

Visitor Reviews

Most of the Rest Area reviews are associated with the blissful atmosphere, unique design, and stunning views. It is a secret to those who travel to Sharjah and it is one of the under-viewed perspectives. The walks are safe and the photographers like the light which changes with the day, the families enjoy.

Conclusion

Al Suhub Rest Area gives you a relaxing break into the mountains and memorable sceneries regardless of whether you are a resident or you are visiting Sharjah the first time. Cool temperatures, serene environment as well as its Cloud Lounge design make it one of the best attractions in Khorfakkan. When you want to stop and have a break, enjoy nature with your eyes raised high, and possibly breathe the fresh air this scenic rest stop should not be left out of your travel list.

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