The Al Sharqi Family: Fujairah's Ruling House

The Al Sharqi family leads the Sharqiyin, the principal tribe of the UAE's east coast, whose homeland stretches from the Hajar Mountains to the beaches of the Gulf of Oman. For centuries its people lived from fishing, date palms and mountain farming, sheltered by the peaks that separate Fujairah from the rest of the country. Fujairah is the only emirate entirely on the Gulf of Oman. The United Arab Emirates was formed on 2 December 1971 by six emirates, and Ras Al Khaimah joined on 10 February 1972. Each emirate keeps its own ruling family, and the seven Rulers together form the Federal Supreme Council. Learn more in the UAE's history and culture.

His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Fujairah, has led the emirate since 18 September 1974, one of the longest-serving rulers in the region. In 1971 he became the UAE's first Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.

Under his leadership Fujairah has grown from a quiet coast into a strategic hub. The Port of Fujairah, which sits outside the Strait of Hormuz on the open Gulf of Oman, has become one of the world's largest bunkering centers, supplying fuel to ships from around the globe; read our Port of Fujairah guide and the wider story of Middle East ports. The emirate's long-range plans for growth, tourism and quality of life are set out in the Fujairah 2040 plan.

The Ruler is His Highness Sheikh Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Member of the Supreme Council, Ruler of Fujairah. The Crown Prince is His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamad bin Mohammed Al Sharqi, Crown Prince of Fujairah. Members of the family carry the title Sheikh or Sheikha.

Fujairah is about 90 minutes from Dubai and offers coral reefs, mountain drives and beach resorts. Choose from the best Fujairah luxury resorts, see the UAE luxury vacation guide, and compare the region's royal houses on royal families of the Middle East.