All about Nahwa Enclave
Looking for new attractions in Sharjah? Check out Nahwa Enclave, a scenic spot lined with beautiful plantations and freshwater pools. From camping to organising picturesque picnics, there are many things to do in Nahwa Enclave, a counter-enclave in Sharjah lying within the Omani exclave of Madha. What is Nahwa Enclave? What is its historical significance? What are the best things to do there? Let’s find out.
What is Nahwa Enclave?
Nahwa is a remote enclave located within the Madha exclave of Oman. However, this tiny territory belongs to the Emirate of Sharjah and is easily accessible for UAE residents.
Nahwa is divided into three parts: New Nahwa, Old Nahwa and the village of Shis. New Nahwa has 40 buildings and a clinic while the Old part of the enclave has houses. In 1999, the old village was abandoned and the foundation of New Nahwa was laid in Wadi Shis.
Nahwa History
Nahwa Enclave’s history dates back to the late 1930s when four rival clans ruled the Musandam Peninsula (presently, an exclave of Northern Oman). However, it was not decided who these clans posed their allegiance to. Therefore, Madha villagers invited the leaders of the clans on a feast to discuss their allegiance. Each clan pledged loyalty to Oman, except Nahwa Madha.
Nahwa had closer ties with Sharjah so it chose to stay associated to the leadership of the emirate. This is how it became a counter enclave within Madha.
In the 1950s, the British Council made efforts to draw definitive borders between these groups. In 1969, the British council finally succeeded in their efforts and the borders were drawn to clearly position Nahwa as a part of Sharjah.
Things to do at Nahwa Enclave
While visiting Nahwa Enclave, don’t forget to add these activities to your itinerary.
Go camping
Pack your bags and get ready to go camping around the Nahwa Enclave. Don’t forget to bring a sleeping bag, water bottle, first aid kit and a navigation tool to set up your campsite.
Bike through the rocky Wadi Shis
Drive through the wadi, enjoying scenic views of the lush plantations and rocky peaks.
Hike up a rare counter-enclave
Head for a hike in the Nahwa Enclave if you are feeling adventurous. Hiking the rocky peaks will offer you an amazing experience. You will be able to enjoy breathtaking views and fresh air after reaching the summit. Keep in mind to carry a flashlight and a GPS while going for a hike.
Take a look at date palm plantations
If you are fond of nature, walking through the date palm plantations at the enclave will be a great experience for you.
Swim in pools
There are freshwater pools at the enclave where you can enjoy a quick splash with your friends and family.
Nahwa Enclave Location
Getting to Nahwa doesn’t take much time, provided you take the shortest route to reach there.
From Sharjah
If you are coming from Sharjah, there are three routes to get to Nahwa. However, Khorfakkan is the one that is usually preferred by the residents.
Via Khorfakkan Road
This is the fastest route to reach the Nahwa Enclave from Sharjah. It will take you to your desired destination within an hour-and-half. To reach the enclave from Khorfakkan Road, you can follow E88.
Estimated time: 1 hour, 22 minutes
Via Masafi Road/E88
This is another way to reach Nahwa Enclave. The route crosses through Oman and will take you to the Nahwa Enclave location within an hour-and-half. To go to enclave from Masafi Rd,
- Drive along Sheikh Rashid Bin Saqr Al Qasimi St/S115 to E11
- Get on to E88 to Ras Al Khaimah.
- Take the exit from E89
- Drive to your destination
Estimated Time: 1 hour, 30 minutes
Via Kalba Rd/E102
The third route, Kalba Road also runs through Oman. It will take around two hours to reach your destination in Sharjah. To get to Nahwa Enclave from Kalba Rd,
- Get on E88 from Sheikh Rashid Bin Saqr Al Qasimi St/S115 and E11
- Take Sharjah-Kalba Rd/E102
- Follow E89 to Nahwa
Estimated Time: 1 hour, 49 minutes
From Dubai
If you are coming from Dubai, this is the best route to take to reach Nahwa.
- Drive from Al Ain Rd/E66
- Get on to the Khorfakkan Road and drive following your GPS directions
Estimated Time: 1 hour, 38 minutes
And that brings an end to our Nahwa Enclave review. Besides this attraction, there are many other exciting places to visit in Sharjah. There are family-friendly attractions, archaeological sites and various historical landmarks there. You can visit the places that fit your style and preference. If you are a history buff, you can also pay a visit to heritage sites in Sharjah.
However, if you are looking for kid-friendly attractions, you will be happy to know there are many interesting things for kids in Sharjah.
Which places have you recently visited in Sharjah? Tell us about your favourite place in the comments section below.
