We often think of landmarks as places full of stories, and the Swordfish Monument in Umm al Quwain is no exception. Standing tall by the Arabian Gulf, this giant sculpture honors the emirate’s fishing heritage and its close connection to the sea.

Visiting here is free, and it’s a perfect spot for a peaceful walk along the waterfront, taking photos at sunset, or starting a day of exploring this calm northern emirate.

Location, Transportation & Costs

The Swordfish Monument sits along the Umm al Quwain Corniche by the Arabian Gulf coast.

How to get there:

- By Car: From Sharjah, it’s about 40–50 minutes via E11/E88. Free parking is available near the Corniche, so driving is convenient.

- Taxi / Ride-Hail: From Sharjah or nearby cities, expect around $25–$40 one way depending on distance and traffic.

- Public Bus: There is no direct major bus line to the monument, so a taxi or car is easiest.

Entry:

- Free and open 24/7 — no tickets or reservations needed. You can visit any time, though morning and late afternoon are best to avoid strong midday sunshine.

Best Time to Visit:

- November–March: Cool, mild weather makes walking and photography much more enjoyable.

- April–October: Very warm/hot summers—visiting in early morning or late afternoon is essential.

Tips: Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. There are some shaded spots, but limited cover directly around the monument.

Nearby Attractions & Pricing Details

Since the Swordfish Monument itself is a quick stop, we can easily combine it with nearby cultural and family sites to make a half-day experience.

UAQ National Museum (Old Umm al Quwain)

- Opening Hours: ~7:00 AM–8:00 PM daily, slightly shorter on Friday mornings.

- Tickets: Around AED 5 (~$1.35) per person, children often discounted.

- The museum showcases local history from pearling to traditional coastal life.

Umm al Quwain Fort & Museum

- Entry: ~AED 10 (~$2.70), children discounted.

- Opening Hours: ~8:00 AM–6:00 PM daily, closed occasionally on Fridays.

- Learn about maritime heritage and regional history.

Umm al Quwain Zoo (Optional Family Stop)

- Entry Fee: ~AED 25 (~$7) per person.

- Hours: ~9:00 AM–9:00 PM daily.

We can combine these attractions with the Swordfish Monument for a half-day cultural and seaside tour.

Dining Options & Prices

After photos and walking along the sea, we can enjoy local food nearby:

Corniche Cafés and Eateries

- Local cafés and small seafood spots along the waterfront serve sandwiches, grilled fish, rice plates, and fresh juices.

- Price range: ~$7–$20 per person.

City Center Restaurants

- Casual restaurants in Umm al Quwain city center offer Middle Eastern and international cuisine.

- Price range: ~$10–$25 per person for a full meal with drink.

Tip: Try local grilled fish with saffron rice or fresh fruit juice—it pairs perfectly with a sunny walk along the Gulf.

Accommodation Suggestions & Price Ranges

If we stay overnight, there are several convenient options:

Beach Hotels / Resorts

- Comfortable mid-range hotels close to the Corniche and beach.

- Typical price: ~$80–$120 per night.

Mid-Range Stays in Town

- Small resorts or guesthouses offer calm environments.

- Price range: ~$60–$100 per night.

Vacation Rentals

- Private apartments or Airbnb units near the coast, often with kitchen facilities.

- Price range: Starting around ~$70 per night.

Tip: Book in advance for November–March to get the best rates and availability.

Suggested Half-Day Plan

- Morning: Swordfish Monument at sunrise → stroll Corniche → coffee or light breakfast.

- Late Morning: Visit UAQ National Museum or Umm al Quwain Fort (~10–20 min drive).

- Lunch: City center restaurant.

- Afternoon: Optional visit to Umm al Quwain Zoo or relax along the Corniche.

Make the Most of Your Visit

Lykers, the Swordfish Monument may be a short stop, but combined with museums, cafés, and a calm waterfront walk, it becomes a relaxing and memorable experience. Free entry, easy access, and flexible timing make it a must-see when exploring northern UAE. Pack sunscreen, bring water, and enjoy the sea breeze—we can uncover the peaceful charm of Umm al Quwain together!