Reef Al Fujairah City, United Arab Emirates

Life in this UAE coastal city is a constant battle against the elements. With a population of just 82,310, Reef Al Fujairah faces an unforgiving climate - average summer temperatures exceed 48°C and the air is thick with humidity. Bureaucracy is a persistent headache, as the borders with Oman remain largely undemarcated. Violent dust storms can severely reduce visibility, while the surrounding waters pose a navigational hazard. Overall, this is a challenging environment best suited for those with a hardy constitution and a high tolerance for discomfort.