Wadi Shaam (وادي شعم) is a treasure trove of history and culture, set amidst the breathtaking scenery of Ras Al Khaimah emirate. This small, traditional settlement offers a glimpse into the past and a chance to experience the rich cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates.
WADI SHAAM IN THE PAST
Wadi Shaam was founded by the Bani Shutair section of the Shihhuh Bedouin tribe, known for their strong sense of community, cultural heritage closely tied to the land and sea, as well as their involvement in trade and commerce. They were part of the confederation of tribes that dominated the maritime trade routes in the Persian Gulf region.
In the 18th and 19th centuries, Ras Al Khaimah became a center of the pearling industry, and its pearls were highly sought after by wealthy buyers across the world. The pearl trade was partially a source of income for the residents of Wadi Shaam. However, the industry declined in the early 20th century due to the invention of cultured pearls, and Ras Al Khaimah‘s economy shifted towards other industries, such as agriculture and fishing.
During the 20th century, Ras Al Khaimah was one of the seven Emirates that formed the United Arab Emirates in 1971.
Like many other Bedouin tribes in the region, the traditional way of life of the people of Wadi Shaam has been greatly impacted by modernization and urbanization, driven by investments in industries such as tourism, construction, and real estate. People moved out from traditional stone houses to the modern residential areas in Wadi Shaam, closer to the seaside.
Despite this shift, Wadi Shaam has remained an important part of the UAE’s cultural heritage, and the region’s rich history continues to be celebrated and remembered by the people of Ras Al Khaimah.
IMMERSE YOURSELF IN THE SERENITY OF BYGONE ERA
From my diary on the day I visited Wadi Shaam:
The sun dips below the horizon, casting its final rays upon Wadi Shaam and the towering mountain walls around it. The only sound that can be heard is the occasional rock, breaking free from the cliffs and tumbling into the void below. The setting sun transforms the Hajar Mountains into a tapestry of thousands of shades of pink and purple, reminiscent of fantastical scenes like those in the Lord of the Rings series. Khazad-dûm of the UAE, a city carved of stone that only a bright eyes can discern, hidden in the mountain wall.
Wadi Shaam is a tranquil haven where you can escape the chaos of modern life and immerse yourself in the simplicity and serenity of a bygone era. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the abandoned ruins and admire the architecture of the ancient settlement. The nearby stones were used to build the simple, one-room houses with exterior walls coated in mud and roofs made of sturdy joists from tree trunks, palm leaf mats, and rumble.
The way of life of the people of Wadi Shaam revolved around seasons: in winter they farmed barley and wheat, utilizing the topography of the mountains to carve terraces, which they watered with narrow channels during the winter rains. During summer, people from the Shihuh tribe tended date gardens in the plains and operated fishing and pearling boats.
Exploring the abandoned stone settlements in the Hajar Mountains feels like taking a step back in time. The peaceful silence is only interrupted by the wind blowing through the desolate ruins. It’s a place where history whispers its secrets and the stories of those who once lived there still linger.
HOW TO GET TO WADI SHAAM?
4×4 vehicle is not required. Even though the road is a dirt path, you will be able to reach this point: 26.051142, 56.148062 with a car without a 4-wheel drive. And from here, you can wander around. The point to park your car 4×4 vehicle is here: 26.054584, 56.150075.
It is important to remember that this is a residential area, so I would not recommend Wadi Shaam as a camping spot. Additionally, Wadi Shaam is located in close proximity to the border, so you can expect army cars to patrol the area frequently. There is a hiking route that goes through the village and allows you to climb up to the top of the mountain and it offers a spectacular view on Wadi Shaam. You can explore it here: Wikiloc
I hope you found this article about Wadi Shaam helpful and that it gave you an idea of where to head next weekend. If you are looking for more interesting places nearby, I recommend you to check: Nostalgia in the Stone Houses in Wadi Haqeel and Forgotten Story Buried in Wadi Haqeel.
REMEMBER!
- Do not leave any garbage behind, including food. Even organic waste can take months to biodegrade and meanwhile it will attract animals. It may make them stop eating their natural food and rely on what humans leave behind and make them sick.
- Have always a bag ready to collect trash left behind by other inconsiderate people – in the end, you are saving nature.
- Hike or camp over gravel and rocks. In some areas, the vegetation can take years to grow back.
- Leave natural and historical items where you find them.
- Minimize cooking over a campfire, and use the stove instead – it is less impact on the wilderness.
UAE OFF-ROADER GUIDE
If you are looking for more off-road trails to discover around the United Arab Emirates, I can recommend this ultimate guide that is packed with many routes, giving very detailed information and answering all questions you could have about off-roading in the UAE.
You can get it from Amazon: https://amzn.to/3eQMBbr
FIELD GUIDE TO EMIRATES
To learn more about UAE’s natural & archaeological treasures, check: https://amzn.to/3JmqzNc
