Sharjah just revealed some very exciting travel updates for road trip lovers! A brand-new mountain road is coming, and it’s all set to wind its way through the majestic mountains leading to Khor Fakkan’s highest peak! I’m talking a stunning 1,100 metres above sea level! Starting at Al Ghuzair Tunnel, this road will take you over slopes and ridges surrounded by trees, water channels, farms, and beautiful homes. It’s going to feel more like a scenic adventure than a drive! Even better? The road is being turned into a full-on tourist route! Think charming villages scattered along the way, and views that are straight out of a postcard. His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the Ruler of Sharjah, described the project as “a wonder never seen before,” and honestly, I’m already packing snacks for my next trip. While there is not date announced for when the road project will be complete, there are a few more interesting things coming up in Sharjah and around UAE. Here’s what you need to know.
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More Projects Coming to Kalba Too!
Kalba is getting in on it’s makeover action too. During his appearance on the popular Direct Line programme, the Sharjah Ruler also announced new projects in Jabal Deem. These include a rest stop, farms, and playgrounds. And the best part is, these are all expected to be ready by March 2026. So the next time you’re planning a family weekend out or a peaceful drive through nature, Sharjah is shaping up to be your next go-to spot.
Wait… Did You Just Hear Music?
And if things couldn’t be anymore exciting as they are, UAE now has it’s very own musical playing road! That’s right if you keep your car cruising over a special stretch of Sheikh Khalifa Street in Fujairah your ears will be met by the sound of Beethoven!
The magic happens thanks to a series of carefully designed rumble strips on the road’s surface. When your tyres roll over them at just the right speed, they produce musical notes. At just the right speed your hear the road play a portion of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony! It’s a beautiful blend of art, science, and a whole lot of creativity, all brought to life by the Fujairah Fine Arts Academy. This is the first of its kind in the UAE and the Arab world, and it’s truly one of those things you have to experience to believe.
The Perfect Steps To Take To Hear The Tune
There are a few tricks to the trade, in order to perfectly hear the tune. Here’s what you should do:
- When you’re driving down Khalifa Street, Right before the Fujairah Police Headquarters you’ll have to stick to the rightmost lane. That’s where the 1km long of magical musical strips.
- Maintain a steady speed of 100km/h. Too fast or too slow and the tune won’t play properly.
- Keep your right tyres lined up on the white rumble strips. The more precise you are, the better the music sounds. And the same goes for keeping your hands steady on the wheel – even the slightest wobble can throw the music off.
- Turn off your radio and lower your windows. Goes without say, but this definitely helps you hear the tune more clearly.
Staying Safe While Driving
While you may not actually be playing the piano while driving, as the person in the drivers seat it’s your responsibility to be safe while driving over this 1km stretch. It may be distracting to see your friends in the car be mesmerised by the music, while you’re stuck with 2 hands on the wheel, but don’t forget how important your concentration on the road is. Here’re some tips on how to stay safe while driving in this area to listen to the music:
- Don’t try to record while driving. Let the other passengers in the car take the videos for you.
- Watch your surroundings, and as usual make sure it’s safe while you change lanes.
- Avoid sudden stops. Keep the traffic around you in mind and only stop on the hard shoulder for emergency purposes.
- Stay in your lane and avoid swerving. This precision is key to both the tune and your safety.
- And remember not everyone on the road is there for the music, so be courteous to the other cars around you.
Are More Melodies Coming Soon?
And guess what? This is just the beginning. According to the Fujairah Fine Arts Academy, this project is here to stay, and there are plans to install more musical roads around the emirate in the future. Even better, some of them might feature traditional Emirati compositions!
So, once you’ve heard the tunes of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, watch out because a lot more singing roads are coming your way. And, of course, Gulf Buzz will be there to update you on all the exciting details! Taking the ‘scenic route’ just got a whole new meaning in Fujairah.